Sometimes life has a way of reminding us that the most important kind of healing isn’t always the kind we can see.
If you’ve noticed I’ve been a little quieter lately, there’s a reason. And while I usually use this space to share skincare tips, treatment education, and all things healthy, glowing skin,
I wanted this month’s Glow Talks to be a little more personal.
Because behind Face to Face Skincare is a real person, and lately, life has looked very different than I ever expected.
When Life Forces You to Slow Down
In early October, I underwent gallbladder removal surgery. What I thought would be a fairly straightforward recovery turned into something much more complicated.
I experienced a significant bile leak following surgery, which led to an extended hospital stay, additional procedures, and a recovery process that has been physically and emotionally exhausting.
I went from planning treatments, caring for clients, and running my business to spending weeks in the hospital, navigating procedures, waiting for answers, and learning to take things one day at a time.
For someone who loves being busy, taking care of others, and being in control of her schedule, slowing down hasn’t come naturally.
There have been difficult days, tears, frustration, and moments when I’ve wondered when things would finally feel normal again.
But there’s also been an incredible amount of love, kindness, and support.
And that’s something I will never forget.
The Woman Behind the Treatment Room
When I opened Face to Face Skincare in Westminster, Colorado, in June 2022, I had one goal: to create a space where people felt comfortable, cared for, and confident in their own skin.
After more than 17 years in the esthetics industry, skincare has become so much more than a career to me.
It’s the conversations during facials, watching someone’s confidence grow, helping a teenager navigate acne, celebrating improvements in someone’s skin, and building relationships that go far beyond a monthly appointment.
My clients have become such an important part of my life.
Having to step away from the treatment room has been one of the hardest parts of this experience.
But the messages, prayers, understanding, and patience I’ve received have reminded me why I love this little business so much.
To every client who has reached out, checked in, or simply given me the time and space to heal: thank you.
You have no idea how much it means to me.
What This Experience Has Taught Me About Self-Care
As a Master Esthetician, I spend so much time encouraging my clients to take care of themselves.
We talk about consistent skincare routines, protecting the skin barrier, managing stress, staying hydrated, and making time for treatments that help them feel their best.
But this experience has reminded me that self-care goes much deeper than skincare.
Sometimes self-care means resting when you’d rather be productive.
Sometimes it means asking for help.
Sometimes it means canceling plans, setting boundaries, or accepting that your body needs more time than you expected.
And sometimes it means letting go of the pressure to do everything.
I’ve spent years reminding my clients that healthy skin takes patience and consistency.
Now I’m learning to give my own body that same patience.
How Stress and Recovery Can Affect Your Skin
Since this is still Glow Talks, I couldn’t leave you without a little skincare education!
One thing I’ve been thinking about throughout my recovery is how closely our skin is connected to our overall well-being.
When we’re experiencing physical stress, emotional stress, disrupted sleep, or changes in our daily routines, our skin can respond in several ways.
1. Your Skin Barrier May Need Extra Support
Stress and environmental factors can contribute to changes in skin barrier function, potentially leaving skin feeling dry, sensitive, or irritated.
During stressful periods, I recommend simplifying your skincare routine and focusing on gentle cleansing, hydration, and moisturizing.
Ingredients such as glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and barrier-supporting lipids can be especially helpful.
2. Stress Can Contribute to Breakouts
Stress doesn’t directly cause every breakout, but it can influence inflammatory pathways and aggravate acne in some people.
If you’re experiencing stress-related breakouts, resist the urge to overload your skin with exfoliating acids or aggressive treatments.
Consistency and gentle, targeted skincare are often more beneficial than trying everything at once.
3. Sleep Is Important for Skin Health
Quality sleep supports many of the body’s normal recovery and maintenance processes, including those involved in healthy skin.
If your sleep has been disrupted, focus on the basics: gentle skincare, daily sun protection, and a routine that feels manageable.
Your skin doesn’t need a complicated 10-step routine to be cared for.
4. Hydration and Nutrition Matter
Adequate fluid intake and balanced nutrition support overall health, which includes healthy skin.
You don’t need expensive supplements or elaborate wellness routines to give your skin a strong foundation.
Sometimes the simplest habits make the biggest difference.
My Favorite Skincare Advice Right Now: Keep It Simple
If life feels overwhelming, your skincare routine doesn’t have to be.
Here’s the simple routine I recommend when your skin needs a little extra care.
Morning:
Gentle cleanser or a water rinse, depending on your skin type
Hydrating or barrier-supporting serum
Moisturizer
Broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher
Evening:
Gentle cleanser
Hydrating serum
Nourishing moisturizer
Two products I frequently recommend at Face to Face Skincare are Epicutis Lipid Serum for hydration and skin comfort and EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 for daily sun protection.
The right products depend on your individual skin type and concerns, but the goal is the same: support your skin rather than overwhelm it.
And remember, a healthy glow isn’t about perfection.
It’s about taking care of yourself consistently, even during the seasons when life feels anything but consistent.
Looking Ahead: A Return to Face to Face Skincare
While my recovery has taken longer than anticipated, I’m hopeful about returning to the treatment room in December, as my health allows.
I’m looking forward to welcoming you back for customized facials, microneedling, chemical peels, acne treatments, and all the skincare conversations I’ve missed so much.
I also have some exciting Black Friday specials coming November 27–30 as a little thank-you for all your support.
It’s my way of celebrating this incredible community while looking forward to brighter days ahead.
Until then, I’m continuing to focus on healing, spending time with my family, and giving myself permission to recover at my own pace.
A Thanksgiving Message From My Heart
As Thanksgiving approaches, I find myself feeling grateful in a completely different way this year.
I’m grateful for my family, for the people who have helped me through these difficult weeks, for the healthcare professionals who have cared for me, and for the opportunity to continue doing something I truly love.
And I’m especially grateful for you.
Thank you for supporting my small business.
Thank you for trusting me with your skin.
Thank you for being patient while I take the time I need to heal.
And thank you for reminding me that Face to Face Skincare is so much more than a skincare studio.
It’s a community.
Wishing you and your loved ones a beautiful Thanksgiving filled with love, laughter, and gratitude.
I cannot wait to see your beautiful faces again.
With love and gratitude,
Megan ❤️
Master Esthetician & Owner
Face to Face Skincare | Westminster, Colorado
Healthy skin. Real connections. A glow that goes beyond the surface.