Master Aesthetician Eva Claiborne, who is celebrating 30 years of providing skincare, post-operative manual lymphatic drainage support following cosmetic surgeries, permanent makeup, and other services through her namesake business, Eva Claiborne Beauty & Wellness in Tiburon, brings a deeply rooted European philosophy to her practice. Born and trained in Hungary, she comes from a part of the world where skincare is not an indulgence, but an essential wellness practice that begins in childhood and lasts throughout one’s entire life.
The multiple Marin Magazine Best of the County winner for Beauty & Wellness shares her in-depth knowledge of what it takes to achieve exceptional skin.
What sets Hungarian skincare apart from the American approach?
In Hungary, skincare is a way of life. It’s not a luxury; it’s part of a wellness routine. When I was a child, my mother taught me to cleanse my face every day with cleansing milk before I brushed my teeth. I never used soap! Soap is an alkaline ingredient and a harsh substance that can dry out the skin.
Hungary is also the epicenter of European spa culture, featuring over a thousand hot springs filled with mineral-rich, therapeutic waters renowned for their healing properties. My mother, sister, and grandmother visited the bathhouse several times a week to enjoy the benefits of the bathing rituals.
What are the common misconceptions Americans have about skincare?
Many people believe that only lasers and injections can address skincare issues. However, great skin comes from daily care—cleansing, moisturizing, and protecting—along with regular facials to rejuvenate the skin between laser treatments and surgeries, as well as the use of suitable skincare products. I often notice individuals purchasing skincare products online and choosing pure vitamin C or hyaluronic acid after self-diagnosing based on advice from the internet. Certain active ingredients must be included in formulations; otherwise, the products can cause skin damage.
Tell us about your journey to become a Master Aesthetician.
I studied skincare for five years to become a Master Aesthetician. Growing up in Hungary, I didn’t have access to commercial skincare products. As part of our master’s program, we studied chemistry and developed our product lines. I used to “cook” my skincare formulas in my kitchen using pharmaceutical ingredients and applied them during my facial treatments. Additionally, I created a fresh facial mask from the farmers’ market for each of my clients.
During my fifth year, I studied under a clinical dermatologist at a skincare clinic, where I learned about various skin conditions and issues. I also gained knowledge about electric cosmetic devices and their applications in our practice.
How do you help your clients build a skincare routine?
I begin with a complimentary consultation for new clients. I ask them to bring the products they’re currently using. From there, we create a simple regimen: cleanser, serum, and moisturizer for both day and night. For some clients, we incorporate eye or neck care. And always, from spring through fall, I recommend using an antioxidant serum to help protect against sun damage, even if the client applies sunscreen.
What do you recommend for skincare while traveling?
I pack a cleansing milk, an antioxidant serum, a hydrating serum, and a calming cream. These products are perfect for fighting airplane dryness or overexposure to the sun. They help maintain skin balance and hydration while traveling. We offer travel-size packs of these items at our spa.
How often should someone get a facial?
Ideally, treatments should be done once a month. However, if someone is experiencing issues such as rosacea, discoloration, acne, or fine lines and wrinkles, I recommend beginning with a series of six treatments. I usually combine most treatments with Hydrafacials for deep cleansing, exfoliation, and hydration. The goal is to support the skin’s natural 30-day renewal cycle.
Can you tell us about your product line?
My latest skincare line is called TITOK NATURALS®—“titok” means “secret” in Hungarian. It’s a results-oriented organic skincare line inspired by Hungarian beauty traditions, utilizing natural active ingredients to promote healthy, even-toned, uniform, and luminous skin.
To learn more about Eva Claiborne Beauty & Wellness and book a service, including a complimentary skin consultation, please visit tiburonskincare.com.
