Skin Series with James Hall

We took an exclusive look into the mind of Riviera Spa’s Lead Esthetician James Hall. Read ahead for tips on a good skincare regimen and inspiration on finding your happiness.

What does a Lead Estheticians job entail?

While I do have specific job requirements and multiple things that I’m responsible for at the spa, listing it all here would probably make for a very boring read. The most important job I have as the Lead Esthetician is to ensure that our esthetic team is the best in Dallas. That focus combines with the treatments we offer, the knowledge of the skin and it’s diseases, our ability to provide 5 star service and hospitality, and the expertise to set our clients up with a home skincare routine that will help them to achieve their goals. Training at Riviera Spa is extensive and ongoing. We have regularly scheduled in-house training, and we also attend training and educational seminars throughout the year to keep us up to date on the latest ingredients and treatments for all skin types and issues. Staying enthusiastic about skincare and providing excellent service to our clients is something that the team here really understands and it’s those values that I try to nurture and develop everyday as the Lead Esthetician at Riviera Spa.

What skin concerns do clients most often approach you with?

Concerns with aging skin is probably what I hear the most and it also just happens to be the concerns that I identify with the most. One of my favorite movie quotes is from Truvy in Steel Magnolias, “Time marches on and sooner or later you realize it is marchin’ across your face.” During the COVID-19 quarantine, I turned 40 years old and it’s not always easy to “age gracefully.” I hate that expression, actually. There’s nothing graceful about a new wrinkle or discovering that the skin on your neck and under your eyes is starting to look and feel crepey. Today, it seems like there is information everywhere about protecting your skin to prevent all kinds of issues and young people are becoming more and more involved with their skin care regimen. Where was all of this information and enthusiasm when we were their age? It’s okay ladies and distinguished gentlemen… The information age can work for us too. New treatments are developed everyday and at Riviera Spa we have some of the best and most innovative non-invasive treatments in the industry! The science that goes into our skincare products and treatments is truly amazing and interesting to learn about. Ask us about Circadia’s Swich Dermal Rejuvenation Treatment or the new Rezenerate Nanofacial, or about some of the anti-aging treatments and products from Eminence Organic Skincare. Our estheticians are excited to explain how these systems work to reverse the signs of aging and learning about the process is not only fun but it will also keep you motivated to stay on your skincare routine!

What are your go-to products?

My first go-to is Nighttime Repair Plus by Circadia. It contains a .5% retinol acetate and anti-aging peptides to increase cell turnover, improve elasticity, and it provides antioxidant support and hydration. This is a great way to introduce your skin to retinol and it’s many benefits without overdrying or endless peeling. My second go-to is Facial Recovery Oil by Eminence Organic Skincare. This product is super hydrating and full of anti-inflammatories that can help cure a multitude of skincare issues. Think about all the crap we put inside our bodies these days and the extra environmental stress that our bodies have had to adapt to. Many of the issues that we see on our skin are caused by our skin’s own inflammatory response. A couple drops of Facial Recovery Oil tells your angry skin to chill out.

How has your work boosted confidence in yourself, like it does for your clients?

Some of my favorite people have a confidence that I don’t think I’ll ever understand or achieve. My life has taken many turns and I’ve overcome tremendous obstacles to become who I am today, but I’m not the most self confident person, and really… I’m ok with that. I was raised in a family where it was very clear that the greatest thing you could be in this life is a servant to others. I am confident in my ability to be that for my partner, my friends & family, and my clients. The feeling of confidence is nothing compared to the feeling of knowing where your joy comes from. My joy comes from making other people happy and more confident in themselves.