Shani Darden has perfect skin

She’s adored by former Remix cover star Jessica Alba, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Chrissy Teigan. Now, with her eponymous skincare label officially achieving cult status for its no-nonsense approach, Los Angeles-based esthetician Shani Darden reveals the skincare secrets behind some of the world’s most enviable faces.

If there’s one thing Shani Darden knows, it’s good skin. After all, you don’t become one of the most globally-revered and sought-after estheticians without talking the talk. But in an industry built on fleeting trends and often confusing advice, to me, Shani is the antidote. Her approach to skin is modern and evidence-based while using simplicity to cut through the noise. This has ultimately garnered her LA-based practice an extensive waitlist and has certified her status as a cut above the rest.

Los Angeles is the wellness mecca, after all, and the ideas and phenomena that have stemmed from this space have formed the cornerstone of this latest issue. I’m curious, however, beyond the Erewhon smoothies and sea moss supplements, what is the ultimate approach to beauty that is truly enduring?

For Shani Darden, skincare is more than just a routine—it’s a form of self-care that connects deeply with mental well-being and confidence. Her celebrity clientele, which includes names like Jessica Alba, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, and Chrissy Teigen, rely on Shani for both her expertise and her ability to guide them through the ever-changing world of skincare with a steady, nurturing hand.‘I’m kind of like a therapist, yeah,’ she laughs, acknowledging that her role goes beyond just providing treatments. It’s about understanding her clients’ needs, both skin-deep and emotionally, and offering guidance they can trust. Her ability to create a space where they feel cared for and confident has made her one of the most respected figures in the beauty industry.

Shani’s approach to skincare is refreshingly grounded in education and honesty. While trends can be enticing, she’s not one to jump on every bandwagon. ‘There’s so many different ingredients—I try everything,’ she admits, but she quickly underscores that skincare should be about more than chasing the latest fad. ‘You do your research; there’s no other way around it unless you have a good esthetician. There’s just no other way around it.’ This is where Shani’s expertise truly shines—her ability to cut through the noise and help people focus on what truly works for their individual skin. Rather than relying on gimmicks or quick fixes, she advocates for a personalised, thoughtful approach to skincare that prioritises long-term results over instant gratification.

With social media playing an undeniable role in shaping beauty trends, Shani is mindful of the influence it can have, both positive and negative. While platforms like Instagram have opened up access to skincare advice, they’ve also created an environment where unhelpful information spreads quickly. ‘I think social media definitely plays a role, but I think there’s a lot of misinformation out there,’ she says, pointing out that just because something is popular doesn’t mean it’s the best choice for everyone. For Shani, beauty isn’t about jumping on the latest trend—it’s about feeling empowered through knowledge and self-acceptance.

Her philosophy is simple: good skin is achievable for most people, with the right routine. ‘Unless you’ve completely damaged your skin, everyone can [achieve great skin] if they’re doing the right skincare routine, ’she shares, highlighting that skin improvement is a journey, not an overnight transformation. It’s this balanced perspective that has helped Shani guide so many of her clients—including the biggest names in Hollywood—towards skin that not only looks good but feels good, too. Balancing a high-profile career with personal well-being isn’t always easy, and Shani admits she doesn’t always get it right. ‘I don’t balance anything correctly, but I try,’ she says with a laugh. But even amidst her busy schedule, she knows the importance of carving out time for self-care, whether it’s a few minutes for her skincare routine or simply taking a moment to pause. It’s this balance of nurturing others while also caring for herself that has helped her build such a loyal following—not just among her celebrity clients but among those who admire her thoughtful, considered approach to beauty.

For Shani Darden, beauty isn’t just about products or treatments—it’s about education, confidence, and authenticity. Whether she’s helping a celebrity achieve their best skin or guiding someone through the often-confusing world of skincare, Shani’s mission is clear: to help people feel confident in their own skin. In an industry where trends often take centre stage, her commitment to simplicity, honesty, and long-term results sets her apart, ensuring that her legacy will be one of lasting impact and true self-care. In essence, she implores us to approach skincare more simply and thoughtfully. About time, I agree.