Back to Makeover 2005 Page
While our skin fulfills an obvious biological function,
it is also the showcase we present, for better or worse,
to the outside world. And, like it or not, we are, to a
degree, judged by the nature of our epidermal
'packaging.'
That is why the Comox-based advanced hair removal and
skin rejuvenation business, Derm Essentials, has played
a pivotal role working with the candidate in the Comox
Valley's first ever 'Makeover.'
Sponsored by the Comox Valley Echo, and Magic FM 98.9
Radio, the Makeover candidate is now nearing the end of
a rigorous and challenging three-month regime of change.
It hasn't been easy but, says Sharon Schwindt, Derm
Essential's co-owner (along with Dennis Hartman, MD),
the candidate has stuck it out with good spirits.
During her sessions with Derm Essentials, the candidate
has been utilizing a full product line for skin-care, as
well as three rejuvenation treatments, laser
electrolysis, mole removal, complete facial, manicure,
pedicure, eyelash tinting and more.
"It has really been a learning process for all of us
here," Sharon says. "We've been able to work as a team,
and we have accomplished a lot in a three-month period.
Obviously we aren't doing it in as short a time as on
TV, but even with the time we've had, it's been pretty
demanding on everyone, especially the candidate."
Sharon has nothing but praise for the candidate. She has
stuck steadfastly with the program set out for her, even
though she has faced a number of challenges, including
personal ones.
"It has been essential for everybody involved in this to
preserve her dignity at all costs," Sharon says. "There
were areas of her life and appearance that needed to be
enhanced, but it was important that she understand she
was not formerly an unattractive person."
And in that, Sharon says, they have faced no major
kinks, although she said the candidate admits she is
sometimes in shock over the changes she has undergone.
One advantage the candidate had was profound family
support, especially the support of her aunt. "Her aunt has been very good support for her, including
driving her to various appointments, since the candidate
doesn't drive, herself," Sharon says. "And, there have
been days that have been tough, and will continue to be
tough, but she hasn't wavered, and that outside support
has a role to play in that. She has done well and I hope
other people will be able to see that. It's been quite a
journey for her. That's why, at the Reveal on June 17, I
hope the public will come out to Crown Isle to be a part
of it."
Derm Essentials in itself, aside from its role in the
Makeover, has been its own success story.
Started in March 2002, it has grown from a staff of one
(Sharon), to a business that employs 10 highly-qualified
people. Located in "The Landing", at 1757 Beaufort Ave.
in Comox (next door to the Black Fin), Derm Essentials
has been embraced by the public in both the Comox Valley
and Campbell River areas, Sharon says.
Services run a huge gamut from facials, to waxing,
manicure and pedicure, 'Aurora' hair removal, brow and
lash tinting, and various specialty treatments,
including acne treatment, cellulite treatment, botox and
juvederm.
All services are carried out by highly trained
specialists in a number of areas of expertise. Sharon
herself is a Registered Nurse and worked in a clinical
field for many years, and the botox and juvederm
treatments are carried out by Dr. Wallace-Chau.
All prospective clients are entitled to a one-half hour
free consultation to deal with wants and needs, and also
for Derm Essentials to outline their fee structure.
"We describe Derm Essentials as a
'medi-spa', Sharon
says, "because we have incorporated medical treatments
along with our spa offerings. A number of us have
medical backgrounds, myself included, and two physicians
work here as well."
Each prospective client is also requested to have a
medical consultation, just in case there are
predisposing conditions that might either interfere with
or influence procedures.
"It's important for clients to know that the staff of
Derm Essentials does not consist of people who have just
walked in off the street, but that we are all highly
qualified professionals in our fields," Sharon says.
Members of the public who wish to find out what Derm
Essentials is all about, are invited to an open house at
The Beaufort Avenue venue this Friday, June 10, from
4:30-8:30 p.m.
"It's going to be a good
event," says Sharon. "There
will be demonstrations every 20 minutes, and all
demonstrations will be repeated at least once. Attendees
will also be provided with a schedule, outlining the
processes being demonstrated, and who will be doing it."
Accompanying the demonstrations will be a bit of a party
atmosphere, with maitre de catered hors d'oeuvres and
drinks on the patio, weather permitting, and
entertainment provided by two guitarists.
"The event will be both fun and
informative," Sharon
says. "So, anyone who is interested in what we do - and
this includes both men and women, because skin-care and
maintaining a youthful appearance is as vital to men as
to women - should come and meet the staff, and tour the
spa facility."
Sharon says they had many positive comments following
last year's open house, and this one will be bigger and
better.
Our Makeover candidate receiving treatment at Derm Essentials
