The article on cellular health in your Spa Foresight™ last issue (see SB14/4 p30) intrigued me because of its role not only on the total health of the body but in specific areas such as skincare.

My best friend at college developed type 1 diabetes and from that moment, I began a journey to better understand cellular health and what ultimately determines our long-term health and wellbeing and it was the focus of my thesis in epigenetics. We’ve learned a great deal over the past couple of decades on epigenetic chemical reactions and factors that influence cellular health. However, there’s much more we need to realise, especially in how to apply this knowledge to our overall health and wellbeing.

I recently transitioned into the spa industry because I saw a unique opportunity to bring the science of cellular health to the forefront. It’s the most powerful tool we have in developing new products, techniques and treatments that will yield better results. My favourite topical ingredients include peptides and antioxidants because of their ability to specifically communicate responses at the cellular level and protect the cells from the damaging effects of free radicals. Good cellular health relies on achieving a homeostatic balance. But as we age, our ability to maintain this balance deteriorates. Helping our cells combat the ageing process via a nutritious diet, proper exercise and rest as well as intelligently applying products to our skin can go a long way to finding that elusive ‘fountain of youth’.

I believe that as skincare technology moves forward, we’ll find ways to utilise active ingredients like peptides to more effectively interplay at the molecular level. While cellular health may often go unseen, I’m a strong advocate in driving its awareness.

Contact Neal Kitchen
Email: [email protected]
Twitter: @HydroPeptide

Having been exposed to the workings of cosmetic retailer SpaceNK and hi-tech skincare brand Colbert MD in the last 18 months, my perception of retail has been turned upside down and inside out. I’ve spent time on the shop floor watching, listening and learning about body language, terminology, confidence and – most importantly – how to close a sale.

I’ve learned that sales people are essential if spas are to drive retail and I was pleased to see Steve Jeisman, group spa director of Alila, touch on the subject in your last issue too (see SB14/4 p40). Sales people can up-sell services at the point of check-in and bring expertise in all areas of retail to ultimately understand what the customer wants and to get them to buy something. And they’re not deterred or upset by rejection or the word ‘no’.

My experience has brought home to me the importance of recruiting the right people and matching them to the right roles. I know, how many times have we heard this? But to make a difference, operators need to identify the strengths and weaknesses of their team, especially where retail and up-selling is concerned.

Make a conscious effort to ensure that each member fully understands their role in the retail journey. Let them try products as a ‘seeing is believing’ approach is essential in the recommendation process. Finally, offer training and instil confidence, set targets and share retail budgets. Most of all, make retail part of your everyday spa concept: live it, feel it and believe it!

Contact Helen Merchant
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +44 7447 908528