I'm from NYC and I've been to a bunch of "fancy spas" in my life. I have to say the best facial I've ever had is from Skin Forensics with Katerina. I first went here when I was in college in Albany and now I still travel back upstate specifically for the purpose of seeing Katerina. Most spas focus on quick results and making someone look "glowing" when they walk out the door (instant gratification = happy customer and better tip) rather than long-term, lasting results. I recently had a $400+ oxygen facial from a spa in Vegas but the effects only lasted 4 days and then everything went back to normal. Please don't waste your money on fancy treatments at some of these other places that don't last long. With Katerina's facials, she applies a scientific approach and I've noticed a real and easily noticeable long-term improvement in the quality of my skin. My pores have decreased in size, I have reduced outbreaks. Plus, Katerina is able to give personalized advice regarding nutrition, what products to use, and how to use them. She understands that everyone's skin is different, so she does not apply a one-size-fits-all approach. In summary. at Skin Forensics, Katerina focuses on long term outcomes and I really think she's brilliant at what she does. So happy I found this skin care expert! HIGHLY HIGHLY recommend meeting with her. It has been a game changer for me. read more

I had a really disappointing experience at Skin Forensics. I came in during early pregnancy after having already experienced back to back miscarriages, and my skin was in terrible shape. I explained that I believed I was dealing with hormonal acne, but the owner repeatedly assured me I was wrong. Instead, she diagnosed me with dermatitis and insisted that I was likely having an allergic reaction to my laundry detergent. She recommended an oil-based cleanser that she had formulated herself, which I personally believe made my skin significantly worse, and I also spent money replacing all of my laundry detergent based on her advice. Throughout the appointment, I felt unheard and dismissed. After my skin continued to worsen, I later saw a dermatologist, who confirmed my suspicion that I was, in fact, experiencing hormonal acne. What concerned me most, however, was that despite knowing I was pregnant, she encouraged me to take cod liver oil supplements, saying the high vitamin A content would be beneficial. I later learned that excessive preformed vitamin A during pregnancy can increase the risk of birth defects, and I was incredibly relieved that I chose not to follow that recommendation. I understand that everyone's experience may be different, but based on mine, I would encourage anyone--especially if you're pregnant--to be cautious and to discuss any skincare or supplement recommendations with your OB or healthcare provider before taking them. read more

I'm a travel nurse, and I've been to several estheticians across the country. I can confidently say she is the best I have been to. She has treated my skin with mask-related acne. Hormonal acne, during my pregnancy and now postpartum. When I started seeing her, my goal was to control and improve my acne. I have exceeded that goal and am now confidently rocking my skin makeup-free. Her knowledge of skin and how to care for it is extensive. She analyzes your skin and gives an in-depth recommendation on a home routine. She is judgment-free when I'm not consistent with my routine and helps me get back on track. She is worth every penny. With consistency, you will see improvement and enjoy every visit, as she is not only an amazing esthetician but also an even better human being. read more

Skin Forensics - What my face looked like before I started to see Katerina. - Acne Treatment Near Me - Castleton-on-Hudson, New York

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I did the "whatever it takes" facial and before we even got started, I knew I would love Katerina forever. Before I even arrived, she texted me the morning of with the office address how to get there and wish me safe travels. Once I was there, the space was incredibly clean light and airy, and she proved to be super knowledgeable, attentive, and caring. The appointment never felt rushed even though there was someone scheduled for right after me. She analyzed all my products that I brought & told me why certain ingredients should not be used. She then put the good ones in one pile the 'not so good' ones in another- I threw the 'not so good' ones out immediately and had no qualms about doing so by the end of our appointment together. Katerina got a sense of what my routines were (or weren't) and gave me some helpful suggestions that have since become staples in my routine and my skin is significantly better. I would certainly go back the next time I'm passing through the Albany, New York area. read more

My skin is glowing! I found Katerina through a Groupon deal for a Microdermabrasion, and while I did not find her on Yelp, I liked her website so I decided to buy one (now I wish I bought 3 or 4, but I can go again)!! You can book your appointment online so I added a mini-facial which was more like an "almost full-facial", and I had a nice steam, mask and a good extraction of my face, which my pores DEFINITELY needed. Note for anyone who gets nervous about extractions: my skin looked/felt fine afterwards. I know some people get nervous that it will hurt and/or you might have giant welts on your face afterwards, but no need to worry. She also does waxing so you can get yourself completely gorgeous all in one spot, and if you need a massage, she is located in Spa Virgo which seems to offer every sort of massage you could want. I spoke to a few of the massage therapists while I was there and they all seemed very nice. Book your appointment now! read more

Katrina did an amazing job. She doesn't try to sell you things and really tries to help you. I highly recommend her!

Absolutely amazing experience today!!! From the second I walked in I was comfortable, relaxed and at the end I was very happy with the "whatever it takes" facial I got. Was also sent home with things to make my skin feel better and advice for the future to help my face thrive. Would 100% recommend this business. I will be returning for sure. read more

I am a travel nurse and have had facials and waxing done in many states. Katerina is by far the best. I am from Upstate NY and anytime I'm home I make sure to make an appointment with Katerina, she is always willing to accommodate me on short notice. After my facial, I am only slightly red for a day or so and then my skin glows. I have been going to Katerina for many years now, since then and with her advice my skin has completely cleared up. I have very few break outs now in large part to her and her skin care advice. I highly recommend Katerina for any service, she is amazing and so knowledgeable. We always have the best conversations. She makes me feel so comfortable. I can't wait to go home again for my next appointment. Rachel B. read more

Best place for waxes in the area. It's quality service and really reasonable prices in a lovely space, and Katerina is just lovely. I'm so glad I found Skin Forensics! I was tired of going places where it was just an add-on service with untrained staff. Kelly Albany, NY read more

I have been to many places for waxing, and I was hesitant to try a new place, as I had never really found one that I really liked. I was immediately impressed with Katerina. After about a decade of waxing, her work is the FIRST that hasn't left bumps, pain, or skin irritation. Her work is literally almost too good to be true. She is AMAZINGGGGGGGGGG!!!!! An appointment with Katerina is like seeing an old friend. Ina addition to her great work, her company is a huge bonus. We always have great, stimulating conversations, and she is always warm and friendly. She is incredibly knowledgeable about skin and always willing to impart her wisdom or give tailored advice. She always makes me feel comfortable and welcome, and she does her job with incredible detail. read more

Katerina is so sweet. This was my first time getting a wax and she walked me through everything and was very nice and neat. She's clean and has great customer service. I love her and I already know im going to be going there regularly. read more

I have suffered from moderate to severe acne for more than half of my life and I have been to countless skin care clinics and aestheticians for acne treatments and extractions (in LA, the Bay area, and even in Korea). Katerina's extractions have been by far the most gentle. I've learned from my experience with her that acne extractions don't have too be rough and forceful (and thus painful) to be effective. When I get extractions from her, the pain is just discomfort. Of course there is some pain, especially when I have big cystic lesions but that's understandable and it's really tolerable. Granted, I am pretty used to extractions at this point, but if you're nervous about the pain, I recommend Katerina. She really does it in a way where the discomfort is minimal compared to some of the other aestheticians I've been to (and I've been to MANY). To be honest, now it's hard for me to get extractions anywhere else because I've forgotten how painful it can be if you go to the wrong place. read more