Elite Skin Care

Elite Skin Care has been in business since 1993 and operates from a suite on West 41st Avenue in San Mateo. It is open Monday to Friday from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm and Saturday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, and the phone number is 650.578.8882. Liza Wong performs every service herself, and the business says its clientele includes executives, socialites and skincare enthusiasts. Liza says clients travel to her from across the country.

Every facial begins with an in-depth skin analysis and is then customized. The Genesis Facial is an 80-minute starter treatment that combines skin analysis, gentle extraction, enzyme exfoliation, a face, neck and shoulder massage, a custom mask and hydration. The Acne Control Facial is an 80-minute extraction-focused treatment for acne-prone skin that includes an AHA/BHA peel. The Guinot Hydradermie Youth Facial runs 90 minutes, uses an ionization machine and is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, and the Guinot Hydradermie Lift is a 75-minute facial that works on the facial muscles. The Valmont Glacier Facial is a 90-minute signature treatment using Valmont Switzerland products and a light hydroxy acid peel.

Non-invasive options include treatments for acne, hydration, oxygen, microdermabrasion, micro-current and LED light color therapy. The business says it uses state-of-the-art equipment and advanced instruments throughout its treatments. The business says its facials deliver strong results for clients with acne, sun damage or sagging skin.

The studio sells its own Elite Skin Care line of professional products, which covers face, eye and body care, along with Valmont Switzerland and Guinot Institut Paris brands. Products include cleansers, toners, moisturizers, enhancers, exfoliants, masks, eye care and sun protection. Listed prices include Guinot Creme Nouvelle Vie at $79.00, Valmont V-Lift Cream at $435.00 and Valmont LumiMask at $230.00. Domestic ground shipping is free on orders over $100.

Cancellation requires 48 hours notice for facial appointments. Cancelling or rescheduling with less than 48 hours notice incurs a $50 charge, and a no-show incurs a $100 charge. Appointments must be guaranteed with a credit card.

The brand name is registered with the United States Patent and Trademark Office. The company says it has no affiliation with other businesses that sell products under a similar name. According to the salon's own report, it was named Bay Area's Best Aesthetician in San Mateo County. Allure Magazine included it in its 2015 Best of Beauty Directory for a facial treatment. Forbes highlighted the 8CELLENT Vitality Complex Cream as an innovative new beauty product, and Harper's Bazaar referenced the business in connection with facial extractions.

Treatments are customized to each client after an in-depth skin analysis, using advanced equipment and instruments.