Zaida Gordon, Esthetician and Founder of SkintegrityLA, Reveals What Really Works for Acne (and What Doesn’t)
SkintegrityLA
Zaida Gordon earned her esthetician license in 2005 with dreams of becoming a television and film makeup artist. But as her career unfolded, she discovered her true passion in helping her clients achieve their best skin.
Over the years, Gordon gained hands-on experience working in spas, med spas, and with celebrity aesthetic nurses and plastic surgeons. In 2018, she launched SkintegrityLA, a skincare studio in Los Angeles. Known for specializing in acne-prone skin, Gordon combines holistic practices with advanced technology in her approach to corrective skincare.
We caught up with Gordon to learn about her top acne-fighting advice, product recommendations, and beauty secrets.
Zaida Gordon, esthetician and founder of Skintegrity Skincare
What led you to specialize in acne treatments?
What I found as I began working in aesthetics was that the most fulfilling part of treatments were the results I would get for my acne prone clients.
How long does it take for your clients to start seeing results? What is usually involved in the process?
This is a question that varies so much from person to person! However, we generally do see results in as soon as one session (definitely within one month) and you can expect to clear in about 3-6 months depending on the complexity of the case. Our ideal timeline would be every 3-4 weeks to meet for Acne Bootcamp sessions following the consultation appointment, with a customized AM+PM regimen.
What are some of the common misconceptions about acne and biggest mistakes people make when it comes to caring for acne-prone skin?
Oftentimes, people think they need to get strong and deep peels or scrub/over exfoliate with harsh products. But what truly matters is looking at the whole body, including all the internal factors like diet, lifestyle, and stress levels. Getting guidance from an Acne Specialist helps!
What product lines do you work with?
We work with Face Reality, our own line Skintegrity, Skinbetter Science, isClinical, SIV, Hydrinity, and Code of Harmony.
What led you to become an ambassador for Face Reality?
My love for the brand! The training and products helped my business grow and thrive, by advancing the results I was able to yield in using them. I am forever grateful for their affordability and accessibility.
Do you have a favorite Face Reality product?
Their Mandelic Serum 8% -- hands down. Award winner for a reason. We have the majority of our clients on some form of mandelic and it is truly a secret weapon more people should utilize!
What advice do you have for those struggling with acne?
Be gentle and be kind to your skin. Seek guidance from a skincare professional and stay consistent. Don’t fall for TikTok trends!
Biggest beauty secret?
Antioxidants both topically through your skincare and internally through whole foods. And of course, wearing sunscreen daily!
Wellness tips?
Strive for consistency and embrace balance. Stressing about having done something ‘wrong’ is more harmful than the action itself.
Best advice?
Your body tells you everything you need to know, it’s important that you listen and act accordingly.
Favorite ways to relax?
Infrared sauna wrap and Omnilux Red Light light therapy mask, while listening to a true crime podcast.
Secret to success?
Never ever stop learning, our industry is constantly evolving so it’s important to stay up to date with all the best innovative treatments and modalities.
A University of Michigan graduate, Lizzy Sherman is an award-winning writer/editor. You can also find her work in publications including Healthline, Sports Illustrated, Yahoo!, MindBodyGreen, Men’s Journal, Bezzy, and more. She has been a featured guest speaker at Cal State University Northridge, Digital LA, and The National Association of Audience Marketing Professionals. When she's not writing, Lizzy enjoys yoga and playing guitar. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter: @zillizy, @zillizy16