Hi Sabina! Where are you from?

I'm from Russia.

How did you get into skincare?

I have always wanted to know the ins and outs of skin. I was always very curious about it. I tried to teach myself through my own research, but after high school and college, I was able to really dive into it and learn in a more professional manner. I love equipment, products, tools, peels. I love it all.

I think I care about skincare because you can read everything on our face. It’s the mirror to everything that is going on inside our body. So, if something is unbalanced inside your body, whether it be from hormones or infection, it’s going to be on your face, right away. There will be breakouts or discoloration. Everything connects, so I can see right away what part of your body is hurting. Your skin will also tell you what you should be eating, which I think is fascinating.

Our skin is so unique and each cell is like an amazing factory. It comes with its own security and workers. It all comes together and that’s so beautiful to me.

Do you think that skincare is different in America versus in Russia?

Oh, yes. Firstly, there are tons of ingredients you’re not allowed to use here in the U.S. They also have different tools, methods, and techniques in Russia. I find that here a lot of people don’t know how to take care of their skin, and it becomes sensitized and unbalanced. There isn’t as much education here on what that means and why it’s happening. Some people wash their face with soap – it’s alkaline! I just imagine the skin screaming! That is all taught in Russia and I hope to teach my clients it here.

What is your favorite part of working with skin every day?

I love to see immediate results on the skin. When people come in with red skin, but then leave my room with healthy, calm skin, that is what I'm going for.

Do you have any general advice based on what you've seen with clients?

Always wash your face before you go to bed at night. It doesn't matter what condition you are in – you have to clean up your face before you go to bed. Some people go to bed with makeup on. Don’t do it. Wash it off! “But I’m too tired or I’m too drunk.” No, no excuses!

What is a product that you think more people should use?

Toner and mists, because it’s important to bring your pH levels back into a healthy zone. Especially in New York, where the tap water we wash our face with has chlorine and iron in it. This can change the pH of your skin. You also have to keep your hydration levels high or you can cause breakouts and inflammation. It all starts with the right pH. 

How would you describe your practice?

I’m into all the new technology. Organic is great, but you can really improve the skin with the new technology and ingredients. So why not give it a shot?

What is your favorite product we have at Heyday?

My favorite product is the Lavender Mist from Naturopathica. It has cooling, soothing properties, and is a great antiseptic. It is not aggressive, there’s no alcohol. It is safe for any type of skin, any condition. It’s going to benefit your skin. You’ll be more comfortable with your skin because it’ll feel healthier.

There’s so much skincare information out there now. Where do you get your info?

I love to do research about new skincare. I love to read newspapers, magazines, anywhere I can get info. I just want to understand what is going on, because there are so many changes happening. I read mostly European and Russian media because they cover treatments that haven't come to the U.S. yet. 

What are three things that you like that don't have to do with skin?

• I like to travel, like everyone. I love new places, new foods, interesting people, tasting new wine.

• Ice skating is my favorite. Since it's so cold in Russia, I can skate 8 months of the year.

• I love to take a moment to sit by myself and read a book.

Sabina J sees clients at our Upper East Side location.