From Passion to Perfect Skin: Joanna Vargas on Unlocking the Secrets to Radiance and Confidence

Since childhood, I have been captivated by beauty products. I remember being mesmerized by photography, magazine ads, and commercials, which initially led me to explore photography as a career. Later, my passion shifted towards makeup artistry. However, it wasn’t until I attended esthetics school for makeup that I found my true calling: skincare. There was something deeply fulfilling about working one-on-one with clients, helping them care for their skin, that resonated with me. After obtaining my license, I gave myself one year to see how things would go, and I never looked back.

When I opened my own salon in 2006 with my husband, I was driven by a clear mission: to help women become the best versions of themselves through non-invasive skincare treatments. I wanted every client to leave my salon feeling incredibly happy and confident, eager to share their experience with others. My focus has always been on beauty technology and results-driven treatments.

One of the reasons my salon has been successful is my commitment to vetting the latest technologies and creating customized protocols for each client. I believe in the power of non-invasive treatments to achieve real beauty. For me, real beauty isn’t about conforming to external standards; it’s about how we feel about ourselves. My goal has always been to restore confidence in my clients. I emphasize that there is no magic solution to perfect skin; achieving the skin you want requires consistent effort every day.

Skincare isn’t just about the face—it's about taking care of the entire body. That's why I focus on providing treatments that give a head-to-toe glow. When I developed my skincare line, my goal was to create luxurious products that deliver results. I wanted my clients to feel like they were getting a piece of my services with every use. My products are formulated to address various skin concerns and are suitable for everyone. They serve as the foundation for healthy, radiant skin.

When it comes to ingredients, I am passionate about several key ones. Jojoba, for example, is fantastic for all skin types, even acne-prone skin. It helps regulate sebum production, which can control oiliness. I’ve incorporated jojoba into my Rejuvenating Serum. Vitamin C is another must-have ingredient, which is why it’s featured in my Rescue Serum. Additionally, retinol plays a significant role in nighttime skincare routines, helping to promote skin renewal.

One of my favorite products in my skincare line is the Daily Serum, which is inspired by my love of green juicing. It’s packed with incredible ingredients like galactoarabinan, derived from the larch tree. This ingredient promotes cell turnover more effectively than glycolic acid, but without causing irritation—even in sensitive skin. The Daily Serum also contains oat grass juice to support the lymphatic system, chlorophyll for oxygenation, and a mix of essential vitamins and hyaluronic acid for hydration.

While certain ingredients are essential for healthy skin, others can be over-hyped. For instance, I advise against overusing glycolic acid, as it can strip the skin and lead to increased oil production. Balance is key.

Acne-prone skin can be challenging to treat, but professional-grade options like LED Light Therapy can make a significant difference. LED light therapy stimulates collagen production and accelerates healing. At my salon, we offer several treatments that utilize LED light, but the most popular by far is my patented RevitaLight Bed. This full-body treatment uses healing LED light to address a variety of skin concerns, including fine lines, wrinkles, sun damage, and acne scars. It’s like having a magic wand that transforms the skin.

For those struggling with dull and dry skin, my Super Nova Facial is a fantastic option. It gently exfoliates, hydrates, and contours the skin while calming inflammation, leaving the complexion refreshed and glowing.

As for my own skincare routine, I keep things simple but effective. In the morning, I cleanse my face with my Cloud Bar and dry brush my body before showering. Afterward, I apply my Daily Serum, Rejuvenating Serum, Daily Hydrating Cream, and sunscreen. When it comes to makeup, I prefer a natural look, usually opting for Laura Mercier tinted moisturizer, Kevyn Aucoin eyebrow pencil, blush, and a touch of highlighter. I like to keep my makeup minimal so my clients can see my skin, but I also enjoy a little something to brighten up my appearance.

In the evening, I cleanse my face with my Vitamin C Face Wash and exfoliate twice a week with my Exfoliating Mask. I also love doing a sheet mask every night—lately, I’ve been using my Twilight Face Mask, which features Epidermal Growth Factor. I follow up with my Super Nova Serum, a retinol-based product that I find essential for nighttime skin rejuvenation.

One skincare myth I’d love to dispel is the idea that sunscreen might be harmful. In reality, sunscreen is absolutely necessary, regardless of your age or skin tone. Protecting your skin from UV damage is crucial for maintaining its health and appearance.

Diet also plays a significant role in skin health. A diet rich in colorful vegetables and a daily green juice can work wonders for the skin. On the other hand, I recommend avoiding sugar, dairy, and wheat, as these can be difficult to digest and may contribute to breakouts. Many people don’t realize that our skin reflects the health of our digestive system. When we eat foods that our bodies struggle to digest, it can lead to skin issues.

For my celebrity clients preparing for red carpet events, my go-to treatment is the Triple Crown Facial. This signature facial uses a mild electric current to reduce puffiness, tone muscles, and tighten the skin, leaving the jawline more defined, cheekbones more pronounced, and eyes looking refreshed. The results are immediate, with no downtime, and the effects are cumulative with regular treatments. I also recommend LED light therapy to calm the skin, boost collagen production, and give the complexion a radiant glow.

Writing my book, Glow From Within, was an incredible experience. After nearly 20 years of doing facials, I’ve noticed that many people have the same concerns about their skin. While every client’s skin story is unique, most believe that their skin is determined solely by their DNA. Part of my job is to educate clients and explain that their skin is a reflection of what’s happening inside their bodies or in their lives. I wanted to create a guide to help people, even if they never have the chance to meet me in person. My book is full of advice on key ingredients, establishing a skincare routine, and making changes that can positively impact the appearance of your skin.