Esthetician Spotlight: Rachael Gallo
As we kick off October, which we have deemed National Esthetician Appreciation Month, here is the first in a series of four interviews of amazing estheticians. We are proud to partner with Silver Mirror Facial Bar, whose locations use a number of our products in the treatment room, and who retail our Peptide Lip Booster. Our Founder Dr. Polla visited the Flatiron location, and fell in love with this facial bar concept. Here, our CEO Ada Polla (AP) interviews Rachael Gallo (RG), esthetician and Chief Operating Office of Silver Mirror Facial Bar.
AP:What was your journey to becoming an esthetician?
RG:My journey as an Esthetician began in England, where a required high school work placement shaped my future. When my family emigrated to Florida, a family friend, the Spa Director at Disney’s Grand Floridian Spa, became my mentor and gave me the chance to experience every role in the spa. From cleaning rooms as a spa attendant to welcoming guests at the front desk, I learned firsthand the value of excellence and service. Inspired by the therapists who guided me, I pursued dual licenses in Massage Therapy and Esthetics, along with a Spa Management degree. Over the past 21 years, I have built a career rooted in a passion for Esthetics, driven by the evolving science of ingredients, technology, and the power to teach guests how to embrace every stage of their skin journey.
AP:Where do you currently practice?
RG:Although I no longer take paying guests, over the past 4.5 years at Silver Mirror Facial Bar I have remained hands-on through ongoing training and by leading the development of procedures for every facial on our menu.
AP:How did you discover Alchimie Forever? What was your first Alchimie Forever product?
RG:I was introduced to Alchimie Forever by another incredible mentor, the late Julia Sutton, during my time at Exhale Spa. Julia had a true gift for connecting remarkable people in our industry, and through her I discovered the brand. The first product I tried was the Purifying Gel Cleanser, which I immediately loved for its effectiveness in removing makeup.
AP:What is your favorite Alchimie Forever product and why?
RG:As we all know, our favorite products are always evolving. Right now, my must have is the Alchimie Forever Brightening Peel. Its unique blend of acids works beautifully to smooth my skin’s texture.
AP:What Alchimie Forever product do you use on or recommend the most to clients?
RG:I love recommending the Alchimie Forever Gentle Refining Scrub to guests. It is suitable for all skin types, especially sensitive skin and those new to a skincare routine. I suggest using it in the shower on dry skin, allowing the steam to enhance the gommage massage technique as part of a mindful self-care ritual.
AP:What is your #1 skin care recommendation to your clients.
RG:Overhydrate! My number one skincare recommendation for clients is to prioritize hydration. Using a high-quality moisturizer or hydrating serum daily helps maintain the skin’s barrier, which is the foundation of healthy, resilient skin. Many skin concerns including sensitivity, dryness, redness, and even breakouts stem from a compromised barrier, so keeping it strong is essential. Proper hydration not only smooths texture and boosts radiance but also enhances the effectiveness of all other treatments and products.
AP:What’s your skin care hot take/unpopular opinion/controversial idea?
RG:I occasionally use plain honey as a first cleanser or quick hydration boost as an evening moisturizer, it’s affordable, natural, and effective.
AP:What’s one thing you avoid at all costs when taking care of your skin?
RG:I avoid alcohol-heavy toners because they can be deceptively harsh on the skin. While they may feel refreshing or help control oil in the short term, they strip the skin of essential moisture and weaken the skin’s barrier, which then leads to sensitivity, redness, breakouts, and premature aging. I always recommend gentle, hydrating toners that support the skin’s natural defenses and enhance the effectiveness of the rest of your routine.
AP:Can you talk about the connection between self care and skin care?
RG:The connection between self care and skin care is meaningful. Too often, we rush our routines or see them as chores, when in reality, they are an opportunity to create a daily ritual dedicated to ourselves. Self care is both a physical and mental practice, a moment to breathe, center, and prioritize our overall wellbeing. When we approach skin care intentionally, it becomes more than just applying products. It is a way to nourish our skin, enhance our natural beauty, and reinforce the habit of honoring ourselves every day. In this way, skin care and self care are inseparable. Caring for your skin is caring for your mind and spirit.
AP:What’s your favorite form of self care?
RG:Carving out time for myself in a busy world. I love coming home, lighting candles, and unwinding with my skin care routine, often enhanced with tools like red light therapy or a gua sha massage. I usually pair it with a podcast or catch up on my favorite Bravo TV shows, turning these moments into a true ritual of relaxation and rejuvenation.
AP:Take us through your morning routine.
RG:My morning routine begins by removing my overnight sleeping mask with a gentle cream cleanser, followed by a hydrating cleanser to optimize serum absorption. I apply a Vitamin C serum to address hyperpigmentation, then
layer Hyaluronic Acid to combat dehydration. I use my Theraface cold wand under my eyes to reduce puffiness, immediately followed by the Alchimie Forever Tightening Eye Gel. I rotate moisturizers seasonally and based on
my travel schedule for extra barrier protection. As I age, my neck and décolleté are a major focus, and I use the Alchimie Forever Firming Gel for Neck and Bust. I finish with the Alchimie Forever Peptide Lip Booster before
applying sunscreen and makeup.
AP:What are you excited about right now?
RG:I’m excited about the growth we are experiencing at Silver Mirror! After an incredible year launching our innovative 90-minute facial that targets texture, aging, and pigmentation, our focus is now on expanding further, with our tenth location set to open on November 7th in the Upper West Side of New York City. Over the past 4.5 years, it has been amazing to open seven additional locations across three markets and to work alongside an incredible team of Estheticians, growing together and raising the standard of skincare in every community we serve.
