“Helping people feel better about themselves is what truly keeps me passionate about this industry.”
Gregory Dylan
With over 25 years in the skincare industry, Gregory Dylan has built a reputation as a top esthetician and beauty expert. From his award-winning West Hollywood studio to his newly opened Palm Springs location, he has helped countless clients achieve healthy, radiant skin through his signature treatments and carefully curated product line. Blending European techniques with cutting-edge technology, his approach goes beyond aesthetics—emphasizing self-care as a form of self-love.
Though the desert may have a slower pace than Los Angeles, skincare remains a priority for those seeking that effortless, lit-from-within glow. His signature “Gregory Glow” has become a favorite for both locals and visitors looking for results-driven, yet relaxing, treatments.
In the Coachella Magazine interview, Dylan shares his insights on skincare, the evolution of his treatments, and how he empowers clients to achieve their best skin yet.
“I thought, what a cool job that would be to help people look better all day long and feel better about their appearance and their complexion.”
Gregory Dylan
From Fashion Dreams to Skincare Success
Although Gregory Dylan is now known for his skincare, his initial career aspirations were quite different. “When I was younger, I actually always wanted to go into fashion. But I kind of fell into the beauty industry,” he recalls. His part-time job as a salon receptionist introduced him to the world of esthetics, and soon, he was fascinated by the power of skincare treatments.
“I thought, what a cool job it would be to help people look better all day long and feel better about their appearance and their complexion.” This observation led him to pursue his esthetician license, setting the foundation for his successful career.
More Than Just Skincare
Skincare isn’t just about beauty—it’s about confidence and self-care. “When I saw the way someone felt about themselves after a treatment, that’s when I realized skincare isn’t just about vanity,” he explains. “It’s about taking care of yourself and putting your best face forward. It has such an effect on the way you present yourself every day.”
Through his work, Gregory has seen firsthand how a glowing complexion can uplift someone’s spirit. While tackling wrinkles and breakouts is part of the job, he believes the emotional impact is just as important. “Helping people feel better about themselves is what truly keeps me passionate about this industry.”
The Biggest Skincare Lesson: SPF is Non-Negotiable
Looking back, Gregory admits he didn’t always prioritize self-care the way he does today.
“If I could go back in time, I’d tell myself to stay out of the sun—or at least wear SPF religiously.” he says with a laugh. He emphasizes that sun exposure is the biggest contributor to premature aging, a lesson he wishes he had taken more seriously in his younger years. Beyond sun protection, he also wishes he had taken more time for himself. “People in this industry are always giving, giving, giving to others. I’d tell my younger self to slow down, get a massage, and make time for self-care.”
Balancing Two Locations and Avoiding Burnout
With two skincare studios—one in West Hollywood and one in Palm Springs—Gregory has had to master the art of balance.
“At first, it was a challenge going back and forth, but I’ve found a rhythm,” he says. He travels to LA twice a month to see long-time clients but has learned to pace himself.
“In the beginning, when you start a business, you go, go, go. But you can’t do that forever. If you don’t take time for yourself, you’ll burn out, and then you can’t give your best to your clients.”
Over time, he has established boundaries, ensuring that self-care remains a priority—not just for his clients but for himself.
Adjusting to Palm Springs’ Unique Skincare Needs
Palm Springs’ beauty scene differs from LA’s, particularly when it comes to seasonal clientele. “One of the biggest things for me to get used to was the ebb and flow of people coming in and out throughout the year,” Dylan explains. “In the winter, we have a huge influx of visitors, but summer tends to be quieter—although we still see people from LA coming in for holiday weekends and events.”
Despite the seasonal shifts, one thing remains constant: the demand for treatments that leave skin refreshed and radiant without extended downtime.
Signature Treatments and the Power of Layered Exfoliation
Dylan’s most sought-after treatment is his Signature Facial, which he originally developed in Los Angeles for clients who couldn’t afford to look red or irritated post-treatment. “In LA, people are always outside—whether they’re actors, models, or just enjoying the weather—so I needed to create a treatment that delivered results without peeling or redness,” he says.
His solution? A layered exfoliation technique, which combines multiple exfoliation methods at lower intensities rather than relying on a single, aggressive approach. “Each exfoliation method works synergistically, providing maximum results while being gentle on the skin,” Dylan explains. “It’s followed by deep cleansing, custom serums, masks, and finishes with oxygen therapy—one of my favorite treatments. Oxygen facials give that extra glow and plumpness, which is why they’re a staple in red-carpet facials.”
For those who want targeted treatments:
• Oxygen Facials – A treatment that delivers oxygen-infused serums and direct oxygen infusion to hydrate, brighten, and revitalize the skin.
• LED Light Therapy – Uses different wavelengths of light to stimulate collagen production, reduce inflammation, and target specific skin concerns such as acne or aging.
• Microcurrent & Nano Infusion – Advanced skincare techniques that use low-level electrical currents to lift and firm the skin while enhancing serum absorption for deeper hydration and rejuvenation.
“The technology in skincare has advanced so much,” Dylan notes. “When I started, an oxygen facial required an actual oxygen tank that you could only get through a doctor. Now, we have portable oxygen concentrators, and treatments that used to require large machines are now handheld. It’s an exciting time in aesthetics.”
Customized Skincare & Client Trust
Every client receives a personalized consultation to determine the best treatment plan. “I always ask about their lifestyle, skin goals, and even what treatments they’re excited to try,” Dylan shares. “But I’m also honest—sometimes people want a treatment that’s not right for their skin type, and I have to guide them toward what will truly benefit them.”
That trust is key. “I’ve been in this industry for over 25 years, and my clients rely on my expertise. My job is to balance what they want with what their skin actually needs.”
The Evolution of Skincare: Less is More
After decades in the industry, Dylan’s perspective on skincare has evolved. “When I was younger, I was always trying new products—like a lot of estheticians do. But now, I’ve simplified my routine,” he says. “Products have become so much more effective that you don’t need a dozen steps. A few powerful key products can give you amazing results.”
Dylan encourages his clients to follow a consistent home routine but leave the heavy lifting to professional treatments. “If you get a proper facial once a month, you can maintain your skin with a simple, effective routine at home,” he says.
To start the new year, Dylan treated himself to his most intense peel. “It’s a week-long process, and I’m still a little flaky as the last of the dead skin sheds,” he laughs. “But it’s a great way to refresh and reset.”
The Impact of Social Media on Skincare
Social media has revolutionized the beauty industry, but not without its challenges. “On one hand, it has brought greater awareness to skincare, providing people with access to a wealth of information,” says Gregory Dylan. “On the other hand, it can create unrealistic beauty standards. People are constantly seeing highlight reels—perfectly filtered images that don’t always reflect reality. I see skin up close every day, and let me tell you, even the most flawless-looking individuals might need a little touch-up in photos.”
Beyond aesthetics, social media has also given rise to a wave of non-experts sharing skincare advice. “While many influencers are passionate about beauty, they’re not necessarily trained professionals,” Dylan notes. “This can lead to misinformation, with people following advice that might not be suited to their unique skin type. I always encourage people to do their research, seek multiple opinions, and remember that just because a product works for someone else doesn’t mean it will work for them. Skincare is often trial and error.”
Another major concern is overconsumption. “Social media constantly pushes new skincare products, and I see many clients overwhelmed by a complex, ever-changing routine,” he explains. “Some are trying two new products every week, which can wreak havoc on their skin. Sometimes, less is more—consistency with the right products is what truly makes a difference.”
Beyond Skincare: Understanding the Root Causes of Skin Issues
When it comes to skincare, external treatments are just one part of the equation. Internal factors—such as hormonal changes, stress, and diet—can significantly impact the skin. Gregory Dylan approaches each client holistically, assessing not just their skincare routine but also their lifestyle and overall well-being.
“After seeing a client for a while, I can tell the moment they walk in if they’re stressed, tired, or overworked,” Dylan explains. “I’ll have them lie down and say, ‘You’ve been stressed, huh?’ and they’ll ask, ‘How did you know?’ I can see it in their skin.” This keen awareness allows him to tailor treatments and provide guidance beyond topical solutions.
Half of his work, Dylan says, involves playing detective—analyzing patterns in a client’s habits to pinpoint potential triggers for breakouts or other skin concerns. “If someone is struggling with acne, we’ll talk about their diet, workout routine, and even small habits, like whether they wash their face right after exercising,” he says. “There’s often a deeper cause, and it takes time and patience to uncover it.”
Dylan emphasizes that while estheticians aren’t doctors, they bring valuable expertise from working with countless clients facing similar concerns. “I’ve even had doctors call me to ask what treatments I’m doing with their patients, and we work together to create a plan that complements medical advice.” Open communication and collaboration, he says, are key to achieving the best results.
The Power of Skincare Transformations
The most rewarding skincare transformations come from helping clients who have struggled with acne. “Acne can be a years-long battle, and while no single facial will ‘cure’ it, I work with clients to manage and control it over time,” he explains. The impact of these transformations goes beyond the skin—it affects self-esteem, daily interactions, and even career opportunities. “Seeing someone go from feeling self-conscious to absolutely glowing with confidence is truly special,” Dylan says. “When someone achieves clearer skin and starts to love the way they look, it changes everything for them.”
The same holds true for clients experiencing visible signs of aging. “When they feel rejuvenated and more like themselves again, their confidence skyrockets,” he notes. Skincare isn’t just about appearances—it’s about self-perception and empowerment. “Skincare is deeply tied to how we feel about ourselves. When people see positive changes in their skin, they carry themselves differently, and that’s what makes my work so fulfilling.”
Skincare Advice
When it comes to skincare, Gregory Dylan emphasizes the importance of consistency over complexity. While he stresses the well-known advice of wearing SPF daily, he believes many people overlook the value of sticking to a simple, effective routine. “People often overcomplicate skincare or get discouraged if they don’t see instant results,” he explains. “But just like fitness, you can’t work out with a trainer once a month and expect to stay in shape. You need to put in the work at home.”
Dylan advocates for a straightforward approach: “A simple, well-chosen routine, done twice a day, every day, makes a massive difference over time.” He points out that it’s not about having a cabinet full of products but rather choosing the right ones and committing to their consistent use. “That’s where people go wrong: they either try to do too much or give up altogether,” Dylan says. “But consistency is what truly transforms skin.”
Skincare as an Investment: Finding the Balance Between Luxury and Accessibility
Gregory Dylan points out that skincare isn’t just about quick fixes—it’s about long-term health, confidence, and empowerment. Whether through customized facials, expert advice, or helping clients navigate the ever-evolving beauty industry, he believes in making skincare a journey rather than just a passing trend.
Part of that journey includes understanding the balance between luxury and affordability in skincare. “There will always be high-end brands that emphasize exclusive ingredients, advanced formulations, and elegant packaging,” Dylan explains. “But at the same time, drugstore and mid-tier brands have really stepped up their game. Some of them are using very similar active ingredients at a more affordable price, making effective skincare more accessible.”
However, not all skincare can be replicated at a lower cost. “There are still some ingredients—like stabilized vitamin C, high-quality retinoids, and peptides—that can be expensive to source and formulate correctly,” Dylan notes. “While some costs may stabilize or even decrease with improved technology and manufacturing, certain premium formulations will likely maintain a higher price point due to the research and development behind them.”
Ultimately, Dylan believes that skincare is an investment, but that doesn’t mean it has to break the bank. “It’s about knowing which products to splurge on—like a great vitamin C serum or a well-formulated sunscreen—and where you can save, like with a simple, gentle cleanser,” he advises. By making informed choices, consumers can build an effective skincare routine that fits both their needs and their budget.
Rapid-Fire Round
Coachella Magazine: Okay, we’re going to wrap up with some rapid-fire questions for fun. First up—your favorite ingredient in your treatments?
Gregory Dylan: Ooh, I love oxygen. Ending facials with an oxygen infusion gives the most amazing glow and feels incredible. It’s so sensory, and clients absolutely love it. I’d also say peptides because they’re fantastic for anti-aging.
Coachella Magazine: Morning skincare or evening skincare—which is more important?
Gregory Dylan: Equally important! Mornings are all about antioxidants, protection, and sunscreen. At night, while we sleep, the skin goes into repair mode. So, it’s 50/50—you really need both.
Coachella Magazine: What’s your ultimate self-care activity outside of skincare?
Gregory Dylan: For me, it’s quiet time—meditation, reading, music, or just disconnecting from technology. Taking that time to center yourself works wonders for your whole body.
Coachella Magazine: Describe yourself in three words.
Gregory Dylan: Ambitious, charismatic, and friendly.
Coachella Magazine: If someone is planning to see a skincare specialist, how should they prepare for their appointment?
Gregory Dylan: A few key things:
• Write down your skincare concerns and questions.
• Take photos of the products you’re currently using to share with your esthetician.
• Don’t try to “fix” your skin beforehand—skip aggressive exfoliation or new treatments so your skin shows its natural state.
• Be honest about your goals, routine, and budget. A good esthetician will help you prioritize what works best for you.
Coachella Magazine: Festival season is huge here—what’s your best skincare survival tip for events like Coachella?
Gregory Dylan: First and foremost—SPF, SPF, SPF! Reapply every two hours with a spray or powder formula. Stay super hydrated, bring a face covering for dust, and keep wet wipes handy to freshen up. A hyaluronic acid serum or lightweight moisturizer can help keep your skin from drying out. And most importantly—book a facial after the festival, not before! Your skin will need that deep clean and hydration boost after all the sun, dust, and late nights.
Coachella Magazine: Thanks so much for sharing your expertise with us.
Gregory Dylan: Thank you.
Gregory Dylan’s Skincare Line and Mission
With the launch of his skincare line in 2019, Gregory Dylan continues to gain recognition, bringing professional-grade results to at-home routines.
As he looks ahead, his mission remains the same: “Helping people feel confident and radiant in their own skin. That’s what it’s all about.”
For more info, visit gregorydylan.com
Palm Springs: 120 W. Arenas Road, Suite 9, Palm Springs CA
West Hollywood: 801 Larrabee St., Suite 11, West Hollywood CA