Serena Williams' Esthetician Started a Skincare Line — and We Tried It First

By Alaina Demopoulos
Courtesy Sken Skincare
Courtesy Sken Skincare

"I see 800 people a week," Lisa Guidi, founder of NYC's Erase Spa, said. "When someone is getting naked on a table with me about to laser them, we build a bond. So, I've learned what people want in skin care."

Guidi, whose most famous clients include Cardi B, Serena Williams, and Victoria's Secret angels such as Lais Ribeiro and Megan Williams, helped bring the Oxygen Facial to the masses. (During the appointment, oxygen is used to boost collagen production, which helps to prevent inflammation.) And even though her many clients all want different treatments, ranging from chemical peels to stretch mark removal, there's one thing they definitely don't want: acne.

"We live in a polluted city," Guidi said. "We're always stressed out. We're on the go, and we're traveling." Those factors can upset a complexion, so Guidi decided to launch Sken Skincare, a line of 18 items that all target specific areas of concern, from acne (wherever it may be) to hyperpigmentation to razor burn. "I wanted to make products for everyone — no matter your skin color, age, or genetics." Keep reading to see our favorites from the line, which launches today in the spa and online at Sken By Erase Spa.

Sken New Vibes Only Body Exfoliator

Sken New Vibes Only Body Exfoliator

"I'm really big into cleaning energy off and starting the day with new vibes," Guidi explained of her cleansing peppermint exfoliator. If you wax, shave, or laser your bikini line in Summer (or Fall, Winter, or Spring, for that matter), this helps to reduce the chance of ingrowns or bumps.

Shop Sken New Vibes Only Body Exfoliator ($45)

Dew Me Face Oil
Courtesy Sken Skincare

Dew Me Face Oil

While this jojoba- and avocado based-oil may not be best for those with sensitive skin, the mix of fatty acids, protein, and antioxidants make it a great option for those on the dryer side. Pro tip: "At the end of the day, it's an oil, so you can use it on your cuticles," Guidi explained.

Shop: Dew Me Face Oil ($30)

Give Me Life Face Mask
Courtesy Sken Skincare

Give Me Life Face Mask

Guidi said she wanted to call this revitalizing mask "Erase Hangover," but FDA restrictions ruined her fun. It won't wash away your drunken mistakes, but it will visibly brighten your face via a mix of Guidi's telltale oxygenated particles, seaweed, and papaya.

Shop: Give Me Life Face Mask ($35)

Let Me Breathe Face Mask
Courtesy Sken Skincare

Let Me Breathe Face Mask

"This helps the skin breathe," Guidi said. Again, it's made with oxygen, which makes this a great option to wear on long flights.

Shop: Let Me Breathe Face Mask ($35)

Give Me A Boost

Give Me A Boost

"A lot of people don't like heavy moisturizer, because it messes with your pH. Especially in Summer, you want something light." That's why Guidi recommends layering Give Me A Boost, a hyaluronic acid serum, under a lighter moisturizer. "It's great for those with acne or eczema-prone skin who are afraid of an intense moisturizer," she said.

Shop: Give Me A Boost ($30)

Faded Pigment Gel
Courtesy Sken Skincare

Faded Pigment Gel

"We treat a ton of clients with acne," Guidi said, which is where this gel comes in. Made with mushroom extract, the formula of this hyperpigmentation fader is less harsh than prescription-strength hydroquinone, which can also make you more susceptible to sun exposure.

Shop: Faded Pigment Gel ($30)

Bump Basher
Courtesy Sken Skincare

Bump Basher

This roll-on looks like deodorant, but it's actually an ingrown treatment made with calendula, salicylic acid, and licorice root to reduce redness and irritation. "It's great to put on when you get out of the shower after shaving, and you're in a hurry," Guidi said.

Shop: Bump Basher ($30)