June 2024 -- Again, the kind, generous soul gifted me a birthday facial to San Diego Essential…read moreAesthetics (SDEA; THANK YOU -- you know who you are)
2024 has been traumatically rough, leaving me in an emotional and personal tailspin, so I wasn't feeling it. I wanted to cancel and reschedule this facial. Daughter convinced me to go, and so I did. A lot has changed since my last facial with SDEA. The changes are for the better.
SDEA has grown and expanded their services (do please check their website), and improved/updated its space(s). I had serious doubts about the new aesthetician, Nevie (Knee-vee), simply because I'm unfamiliar with her, and I still don't like facials.
Calm, soft spoken and professional, I was cautiously optimistic as she escorted me to the treatment area; below are my findings:
Pros:
1. If it doesn't smell/look clean and organized
- RUN! This place?! CLEAN, CLEAN, CLEAN private, single room that smells nice, with soothing music softly playing in the background. The bed covers are neatly turned back, a 1 size fits all terry wrap is provided for your use, and the pillow has a headband laid out to keep contain the client's hair. Hooks behind the door are conveniently provided for your use, no need to put belongings on the floor, or folded on a chair. I placed my footwear beneath the bed to prevent tripping. Nevie's tray holding the products to be used is neat and organized. Those details matter and are what I look for. The cabinet holding the linens gave me serious retail vibes-- very orderly and organized, the way they're folded screams "PROFESSIONAL"! I'd have serious doubts if the bed was sloppily made, linens /cloths, etc. folded differently, half-a$$€d, and or haphazardly presented; this is a very clean, very organized, effective and efficiently inviting space.
2. After inquiring re: my pressure and area preferences (for the massages) and explaining the disrobing process, Nevie gave me time & privacy to prepare and climb under the covers. The fancy bed electronically raises your knees -- no need for a pillow beneath to relieve back pain. The linens are soft, and the room temperature is perfect: not too hot/cold.
3. Dim lighting, relaxing, soft music, muted sounds, NO loud noises/conversations can be heard. Nevie softly explained everything she was going to do, so I simply closed my eyes. I wasn't surprised/startled, and best of all, no inane, frivolous conversation. I was able to relax and just be in the moment. Her soft voice and light touch lulled me into a twilight state of sleep. Awake enough to hear/respond when needed, Nevie had me "snoring lightly"; although I didn't claim any skin sensitivities prior to the start of my session, unfortunately, the pumpkin product was VERY spicy on my skin, and Nevie immediately and thoroughly removed it, cleansed and replaced it with an extremely soothing cucumber product.
The products (save for the pumpkin) felt so good on my skin. The Gua shua facial using tingly, cool facial massaging tools, the scalp and hand/forearm massages were exactly what I needed. The warm hand mitts/treatment were a delightful surprise. Even now as I review this, I'm still so very relaxed, and will definitely sleep well tonight. Poor hubby is going to have to use ear plugs, because I know I'll be sawing logs tonight.
4. Complimentary Fiji water after my facial to stay hydrated?! Why, yes please and - thank you!
Cons:
1. Nevie is so good, the 1hr session flew by in a flash.
2. After my session, I was so relaxed, I could barely stand much less have a coherent thought.
3. No place for the client to nap; I had to go home to do that.
Conclusion:
For someone who really doesn't like facials, I had an outstandingly amazing experience that far exceeded my previously positive and enjoyable experience. I hope Nevie stays with SDEA for a long while to come, because she is just the bees' knees and the cat's meow. I am so thankful for my birthday facial, and to Nevie for this much needed pampering.