167. Spring skin survival guide (with product recs!)

Can you eat for clear skin without becoming afraid of food? In this episode, we’re talking about using nutrition as a tool for acne while maintaining a healthy relationship with food. We cover: Food elimination without labeling foods “good” or “bad” Clearing, reintroduction + maintenance phases Why “everything in moderation” isn’t always the goal Dietary flexibility vs. acne-clearing goals Meal planning for consistency Food tracking as a tool for awareness Eating disorder considerations Avoiding the all-or-nothing spiral

On this episode of The Treatment Room, I’m joined by Bryan Johns, co-founder, President and CEO of iS Clinical. Since founding iS Clinical with Alec Call in 2000, Bryan has been at the center of the professional skincare industry and the brand’s growth into a globally recognized name. We also talk about Icon Skincare, the new prestige skincare brand Bryan and Alec launched in June 2026, and the inspiration behind its connection to Hollywood’s Golden Age and legendary facialist Madam Renna. In this episode, we get into: How Bryan and Alec got their start in skincare and built the beloved celebrity brand. The story behind building iS Clinical What it really takes to start and develop a skincare line The surprising Marilyn Monroe connection behind Icon Skincare What Golden-Age Hollywood can teach us about skincare The role of estheticians and skincare professionals in the industry The complexity of formulation and why two products containing the same active ingredient aren't necessarily equivalent What actually goes into creating an effective skincare formula What decades of building iS Clinical taught him about skincare and business Why launch Icon after building one of the industry's most recognized professional skincare brands What's changed about launching a skincare company today Where Bryan thinks the skincare industry is headed next! If you're an esthetician, skincare professional, brand founder, or just someone who loves skincare, this is a conversation you won't want to miss. Listen to The Treatment Room wherever you get your podcasts. Follow me: Instagram: @myestytessa Skincare: @freeskinbytessa Acne: @acnefriendlyfood Learn more: iS Clinical Icon Skincare

In this episode of The Treatment Room, I’m joined by one of the most respected names in acne education to talk all things comedone extractions, Douglas Preston. We dive into common myths, why extractions are often misunderstood, what separates an average extraction from an exceptional one, and the advice every esthetician should hear—whether you’re new to the industry or years into your career. We also discuss why beauty schools rarely teach this skill in depth, how to approach extractions safely and effectively, the truth about extraction timing, favorite professional acne products, and lessons learned from more than four decades in aesthetics. Whether you’re an esthetician looking to refine your extraction technique or better your business from one of the industry's best, this episode is packed with practical insight. Purchase the RXtractor: Code: Tess10% Learn with Douglas: Code Tess10

Policies aren’t about being rigid—they’re about creating healthy boundaries that allow providers to deliver their best work. In this episode, I’m breaking down the “why” behind the policies in my acne coaching practice, from program timelines and cancellations to skincare purchasing, refunds, communication expectations, and why consistency matters for results. Whether you’re a current client, considering working with me, or you’re a fellow service provider, this episode will help you understand the purpose behind the policies that keep a coaching business—and great client relationships—sustainable. Plus, I’m announcing my new personalized macro coaching program (!!!) and sharing my advice for anyone trying to improve both their skin and body composition at the same time. For personalized macro coaching, book intro phase here. PLUS: ⁠⁠Eat to Clear is officially live! ⁠⁠My new acne-friendly recipe ebook is now available and linked below. SPONSORED BY GLOSS GENIUS "Earn more and get your time back with GlossGenius. Use code TREATMENT at ⁠glossgenius.com/treatmentroom⁠ for 50% off your first two months of a premium plan.

Acne isn't just about your skincare routine. In this episode, we're diving into the connection between insulin resistance, hormones, and breakouts. Learn how elevated insulin can increase oil production, inflammation, and clogged pores—and the simple lifestyle habits that can help support healthy insulin sensitivity and clearer skin. In this episode you'll learn: * What insulin resistance actually is* How insulin and IGF-1 contribute to acne * PCOS has a new name!! * Common signs of insulin resistance* Why blood sugar balance matters for hormonal acne* Nutrition and lifestyle strategies to improve insulin sensitivity * When to talk to your healthcare provider