In the high-stakes world of professional aesthetics, The Skin Games (TSG) stands as the ultimate proving ground. Recently, TSG hosted a powerhouse panel discussion featuring the “New Esthetician” and “Open” category judges. Led by Director of Judges Kelly Wolcott, the conversation spanned from molecular biology to the “art of touch,” proving that the future of skincare is as much about scientific rigour as it is about human connection.
Meet the Panel: A Global Brain Trust
This season’s judges bring a combined experience that stretches across decades and continents. Here is the lineup of experts leading the charge for the 2025–2026 season:
| Judge | Specialty & Location | Key Perspective |
| Brooke Kennedy | Suite B Hair & Skin Lounge (WA) | Molecular Cell Biology & Master Esthetics |
| Diana Diep | Drunk Skin (AZ) | Naturopathic Medicine & Oncology Esthetics |
| Pamela Huck | Med Spa Distributors (NC) | Industry Pioneer & Master Educator |
| Laura Dowey | Bella Beauty School (SC) | Foundational Education & Career Longevity |
| Eva Mawdsley | Lakeside Beauty (UK) | International Trends & Advanced Cosmetology |
The Science of the Craft: From Cells to Sugaring
One of the recurring themes of the panel was the necessity of understanding the “why” behind every treatment. Whether it’s a high-tech laser or an ancient hair removal technique, science is the safety net of the professional.
A perfect example of this deep-dive expertise comes from Jarratt of Keko Botanicals. When addressing the common myth that sugaring is unsanitary, Jarratt points to the osmotic gradient.
“Bacteria cannot replicate in sugar paste because the sugar pulls the water by osmosis out of the cell,” Jarret explains. “The bacteria are basically dehydrated to death. It damages the DNA and the cell structure so it cannot grow.”
This level of scientific literacy is what the TSG judges look for. As Diana Diep noted, having a foundation in anatomy and chemistry is essential because “you don’t really know what the outcome of a result is going to look like” without understanding how body systems flow together.
Trends to Watch: The “Natural” Pivot
While the industry is buzzing about exosomes, spicules, and cold plasma, the judges noted a significant global shift back to basics—specifically, the power of the human hand.
- The Return of Massage: Eva Mawdsley, joining from the UK, highlighted a move away from heavy injectables and toward lymphatic drainage and tissue-stimulating massage. “People are starting to learn about the amazing benefits of lymphatic drainage… supporting the body in a more natural way,” she noted.
- Barrier Health over Aggression: Brooke Kennedy and Diana Diep both emphasized that “more” isn’t always “better.” The trend is moving toward barrier repair and oncology-friendly protocols, avoiding the “over-exfoliation” traps often seen on social media.
- Scalp-to-Toe Care: Pamela Huck is seeing a trend toward total body wellness, including scalp treatments to improve hair health—an area often neglected in traditional facials.
Advice from the Treatment Room
The panel concluded with gems of wisdom for both new and veteran estheticians:
- “One Size Fits One”: Every client is a unique ecosystem. Cookie-cutter protocols are a relic of the past.
- The “Five-Minute” Rule: Pamela Huck suggests every pro should lie on their own treatment table once a month. “Look up, look down. Make sure there are no dust bunnies in the corner. See what your clients see.”
- Collaboration Over Competition: Jessica Cooley (representing Skin Wand Pro) reminded the community that “no one is competition; everyone is a learning moment.” There is enough skin for everyone to thrive.
- Know Your Worth: Eva Mawdsley’s parting advice was to set standards and pricing based on your knowledge and passion, not by comparing yourself to the shop down the street.
Looking Ahead to Dallas
As TSG gears up for the live event in Dallas, Texas, the message is clear: the community is growing, the science is evolving, and the “Art of Restoration” is more vital than ever. As Kelly Wolcott puts it, “Once you’re part of The Skin Games family, you are always a member of our family.”