Essence Skin Spa (Lihue, Kauai)

Essence was founded by Gina Agee, who opened the Lihue, Kauai location and whose background includes nursing and more than a decade in aesthetic medicine. The business also has a second location in Gilbert, Arizona. Medical oversight is provided by Lara Lamberton, Medical Supervisor and Supervising Provider of Essence Medspa, who also serves clients on Kauai.

The facial menu is organized around three treatments. Customized facials are shaped to each client's skin needs, such as hydration, clarity, calming inflammation, brightening and rejuvenation. Medical grade chemical peels and therapeutic facials are offered alongside them as part of the same facials group.

The injectable menu covers wrinkle relaxers, dermal filler and biostimulatory injectables. Wrinkle relaxers include daxxify and Xeomin, and treatment areas listed include frown lines, forehead lines, crow's feet, lip flip and gummy smile, bunny lines, chin dimpling, masseter muscles and neck. Results begin to show within a few days and are full at about two weeks, and most clients keep results up with treatments every three to five months. The business notes that neurotoxins have been FDA-approved for cosmetic use since 2002.

Lip augmentation starts at $500 and typically takes 45 minutes to an hour, including consultation and topical numbing. The lip filler is hyaluronic acid based and can be dissolved with hyaluronidase if needed; results last roughly six to nine months, depending on metabolism, lifestyle and filler type. Jawline and chin augmentation, cheek augmentation and bio-stimulation are also offered. Before lip filler, the business recommends avoiding blood-thinning medications and supplements for one to two weeks unless medically necessary or prescribed, and avoiding alcohol for 24 to 48 hours.

Booking is by appointment only, Monday through Friday from 10am to 6pm; the business is closed on weekends. Clients can call or text, and an aftercare line is listed for questions after treatment. Pay-over-time plans through Cherry are available, with 0% APR options subject to eligibility. The business says patient safety is its top priority.

Patient safety is described as the top priority, with treatment plans built around each client and a focus on natural-looking results.

The space is described as calm and elevated, meant to feel welcoming.