It’s hardly news anymore that an esthetician is an invaluable partner in the quest for healthy skin, but to get the most from that relationship, you need to do more than just make the appointment.

The Days Before

So you’ve found an esthetician and have an appointment scheduled. What now? Kirsten Peterson, esthetician at Aura Spa at the Metropole in Logan Circle, Washington, D.C., recommends writing down your skin’s issues. “Sometimes clients become so comfortable on the facial bed that they fail to voice the concerns that prompted them to schedule the appointment.”

One of the most frequently asked questions regarding massage therapy is if it’s worth the expense? Massage is not just a simple back rub, nor is it just a “luxury” or occasional “treat.” Research tells us that massage therapy is a valuable component of a well-rounded healthcare regimen, combating everything from chronic pain to the negative effects of stress.

One of the benefits of regular massage is the sense of camaraderie and familiarity you develop with your therapist. You know your way around the office and your therapist knows that certain spot that holds your tension, so you may not have to complete the customary intake procedure most first-timers go through. However, sometimes it is best to pause from your typical routine, take a minute to talk with your therapist, and revisit the intake process.

Physician and holistic health pioneer Rachel Naomi Remen once confessed that as a pediatric intern she was an unrepentant baby kisser, often smooching her little patients as she made her rounds at the hospital. She did this when no one was looking because she sensed her colleagues would frown on her behavior, even though she couldn’t think of a single reason not to do it.