Celebrity esthetician to stars like Kim Kardashian West, Jennifer Aniston, Kate Winslet and Anna Wintour, Joanna Czech, has partnered with luxury skincare company 111SKIN on a skincare kit called ‘The Facial Edit,’ together with the brand’s founder, Dr. Yannis Alexandrides. Here, Czech chats about the importance of incorporating facial tools/massage into the skincare routine, the 111SKIN collaboration, her celebrity clientele, at-home techniques/tips and more.

Photo Credit: 111SKIN

How important is using face tools/massage in skincare, and what can face massaging tools to do our skin that we can’t do with our fingers/hands?

In my opinion and experience, it is super important and vital in a non-invasive skin care regimen. Muscles support the skin, so the healthier and stronger the muscles are, the better your skin. Massage stimulates blood flow, brings oxygen and nutrients to the tissue. It enhances the efficacy of any product that follows, and If done consistently, you can sculpt and lift your face. I offer a massage series that over the course of 12 sessions and 280 minutes, the results are fantastic. It can create a cooling effect and makes drainage easier when done with the correct movements. Also, massage can brighten, heal, plump and sculpt the skin/facial tissue/complexion.

What is the best way to use a face massaging tool at home?

You should use the massaging tool right after cleanser and toner. You can also use it over a sheet mask. Facial massage stimulates blood flow, carries nutrients to the tissue and allows for better efficacy of all products that follow.

How did you discover 111SKIN? Talk us through the collaboration.

About four years ago, I was introduced to the line. I was intrigued by their product first because of the packaging and then of course, the clean science that they are based on. I started with the Black Diamond line and was hooked. The quality is the best on the market.  I have been using 111SKIN sheet masks on my clients and myself. The instant results you get when combined with facial massage make them ideal for special events.

Is there any particular technique/action/tool/techniques you use for instant results on clients, perhaps before a red carpet event?

I do deep tissue massage, concentrating on the muscles rather than the skin. I use techniques that sculpt and lift the muscles. I concentrate on the muscles at the back of neck to open the front of the body because all of the nerves are concentrated there. I then work from the top down as this creates micro-swelling and lifts everything up. So scalp, frontalis, forehead, cheeks and jawline and I repeat from the décolleté, concentrating on areas needing more attention.

Do you have any good tips for de-puffing your own face at home?

I use my facial massager with the 111SKIN Sub-Zero De-Puffing Energy mask or ice cubes (I make them from tea—dandelion tea is great for draining fluid) or my massager. You always start from the center of the face and draw down to the base of the ear and then the base of the neck. If you are using my massager you lead with the balls, following with The handle, to avoid grasping the muscles or skin. You need to use a very light touch.

Photo Credit: 111SKIN

Who are your best-known clients and how did they find out about you?

Word of mouth is how I meet most of my high profile clients. They include: Anna Wintour, Kim Kardashian [West], Jennifer Aniston, Carey Mulligan, Kate Winslet, Uma Thurman, Amber Valetta and Lily Aldridge.

How can we keep skin looking its best in very hot weather?

• Replace heavy, rich products with lighter products in your skin regimen
• Focus on your night-time routine as this is the most important time and the efficacy of products increases during rest and relaxation
• Incorporate cold therapy (the 111SKIN Sub- Zero De-Puffing Energy Mask is on of the my very favorites, I use it with my facial massager; I also put my facial massager on ice or in the fridge to keep it even cooler than it is naturally
• Use facial mist throughout the day
• Don’t forget Vitamin C serum as it strengthens the skin and works to combat environmental pollutants
• Make sure keep well hydrated
• Use sunscreen (doesn’t need to be lighter than SPF 30) if you are going to be out for more than 20-30 minutes, and reapply as needed