In today's Beauty Insider Interview, our founder Omayma, had the absolute pleasure of interviewing Moroccan Celebrity Esthetician, Hoda.

Hi Hoda! It's an absolute pleasure having you on Omayma Skin. Tell me about your Esthetician journey! How did you get into the world of skincare? 

My passion for skincare was deeply influenced by my Moroccan roots, where beauty traditions were woven into my upbringing. After earning a business degree in Toulouse, France, I combined my love for skincare with my entrepreneurial spirit in Las Vegas. I’ve gained experience in luxury spas, managing a 5-star hotel spa in Morocco and refining advanced techniques like micro-current, radio-frequency, and peels at Joanna Vargas in NYC. As the former lead esthetician and trainer at Rancho Valencia Resort, I specialized in creating personalized, luxurious treatments that boosted my clients’ confidence. Now, as the owner of Facials by Hoda, I continue to offer customized, luxury skincare experiences. For me, skincare is a way to connect with people and make a lasting impact.

How does being Moroccan influence your practice as an Esthetician?

Being Moroccan deeply influences my practice as an esthetician. Morocco is known for its beauty rituals and natural ingredients, and I’ve incorporated many of these into my treatments. I offer a signature Moroccan facial, which features ingredients like Moroccan clay, orange blossom, and rose water. These ingredients not only have purifying and soothing properties but also create a multi-sensorial experience that transports clients to the heart of Moroccan beauty traditions.
Beyond the techniques and ingredients, I also bring the spirit of Moroccan hospitality into my practice, ensuring that every client feels welcomed and pampered in a luxurious setting.

By combining traditional Moroccan elements with advanced skincare, I create unique treatments that are both rooted in heritage and designed for modern skincare needs.

Are there any North African/Moroccan ingredients that make you think of home?

There are so many North African and Moroccan ingredients that instantly remind me of home. One of my favorites is prickly pear oil, as found in the Bedouin Elixir Facial Oil. It’s incredibly rich in vitamin E and antioxidants, making it ideal for hydrating and revitalizing the skin. I incorporate it into my facials to help nourish and rejuvenate, leaving the skin with a beautiful, healthy glow.

Rose water is another staple that always brings me back to the rose valleys of Morocco. I use it in treatments for its soothing and hydrating properties, which help calm sensitive skin and add radiance. And, of course, there’s argan oil—our “liquid gold.” I incorporate it into facial massages for its anti-aging and moisturizing benefits.

These ingredients not only elevate my treatments but also carry deep personal meaning, connecting me to my roots and allowing me to share a piece of my heritage with my clients.

Are there any skin rituals or techniques you learned from Morocco?

Absolutely! Moroccan skincare rituals are deeply rooted in purification, relaxation, and using natural ingredients. One of the most impactful techniques I incorporate is inspired by the hammam, or Moroccan steam bath, which focuses on deeply cleansing, exfoliating, and hydrating the skin. I’ve adapted this technique for facials by using gentle, thorough exfoliation methods that mimic the hammam’s purifying process, leaving skin refreshed and rejuvenated.

I also incorporate the traditional layering of oils, like argan and prickly pear, in my treatments. In Morocco, we believe that oils are not just for hydration but also help to seal in nutrients and protect the skin. I layer these oils during facial massages, which provide nourishment whilst giving clients a multi-sensorial experience.

These rituals are not only effective but also allow my clients to experience a piece of Moroccan culture, which is a big part of my practice.

Who are your beauty icons?

My beauty icons are a mix of personal influences and individuals who’ve redefined beauty with authenticity and elegance. Growing up, I was inspired by the beauty traditions of Moroccan women in my family—my grandmother especially—who used natural ingredients like argan oil, rose water, and clay to care for her skin. She taught me the importance of embracing one’s natural beauty and nurturing it with care and respect.

Professionally, I’m inspired by industry pioneers like Joelle Ciocco, who brought a holistic and scientific approach to skincare. I also admire icons like Audrey Hepburn, whose elegance and timeless beauty remind me that beauty shines brightest when paired with kindness, grace, and confidence.

What does beauty mean to you?

To me, beauty is about authenticity, confidence, and self-care. It’s less about perfection and more about feeling comfortable in one’s own skin. Beauty is a reflection of how we care for ourselves both physically and emotionally, and it’s something that radiates when we embrace our unique features and take time to nurture our well-being.

In my work, I strive to help my clients find that balance. Beauty is a journey of self-discovery and empowerment, where we can honor our heritage, embrace who we are, and take pride in caring for ourselves. It’s a blend of inner and outer radiance that allows us to move through the world with confidence and kindness.

What makes someone beautiful to you?

To me, true beauty shines through in authenticity, kindness, and confidence. It’s the way someone carries themselves with grace, respects others, and embraces their unique qualities without needing to conform. When someone is comfortable in their own skin and radiates positivity, it creates an energy that draws others in.

Beauty is less about flawless features and more about how a person makes others feel. A warm smile, a compassionate heart, and a genuine presence are the qualities that make someone truly beautiful to me.

How do you like to use Omayma Skin?

 

I love using the Active Rejuvenation Oasis Serum and Bedouin Elixir Facial Oil together to create a deeply nourishing and rejuvenating ritual. I start with the Oasis Serum right after cleansing, as it’s packed with active ingredients that instantly hydrate and energize the skin. It creates the perfect base by prepping the skin to absorb nutrients more effectively.

Next, I apply the Bedouin Elixir Facial Oil, which seals in the moisture and provides a beautiful, radiant finish. The Elixir is rich in antioxidants, so I like to use it as the final step in my skincare routine to protect and deeply nourish the skin overnight. For my facials, I often layer it over a facial massage, helping the oil penetrate and leave the skin feeling plump, smooth, and glowing!

I love the Active Rejuvenation Oasis Serum and Bedouin Elixir Facial Oil because they’re both incredibly effective and thoughtfully formulated. The Oasis Serum feels like a splash of hydration that instantly refreshes the skin. It’s lightweight yet potent, leaving my skin feeling energized and perfectly prepped for the rest of my routine.

The Bedouin Elixir Facial Oil, on the other hand, is rich and luxurious, and it brings a grounding, sensory experience to my ritual. I love its silky texture and how it deeply nourishes, adding a beautiful radiance. Together, they create a perfect balance of rejuvenation and protection, making my skin feel both cared for and resilient.

What are some pieces of skin advice you’d give to absolutely everyone?
My first piece of advice is always to keep it simple. Focus on a few high-quality products that suit your skin type, and prioritize consistency over complexity. It’s amazing what a consistent routine with the right products can do for the skin over time.

Hydration is also key; it’s essential for everyone, regardless of skin type. This means drinking enough water, of course, but also using hydrating serums or moisturizers that help the skin retain moisture. Sun protection is another non-negotiable—wear SPF every day to protect your skin from damage and premature aging.

Lastly, listen to your skin and give it what it needs. Sometimes that means a little extra care or even taking a break from active ingredients. And don’t forget the power of a balanced diet, restful sleep, and managing stress, as they’re all reflected in your skin’s health.

What do you look for when choosing products for home care for your clients?

When choosing products for my clients’ home care, I focus on quality, effectiveness, and how well the products align with their unique skin needs. I look for formulations that are both potent and gentle—products that deliver results without causing irritation or compromising the skin barrier. Ingredients are key; I lean toward those that offer proven benefits, like antioxidants, hydrators, and skin-rejuvenating actives.

I also consider my clients’ lifestyles and skin goals. It’s important that their routine is not only effective but also manageable and enjoyable, so they feel motivated to stick with it consistently. Additionally, I look for brands with a strong commitment to ethical sourcing and transparency, as I believe these qualities reflect a brand’s integrity and dedication to quality.

Ultimately, the goal is to create a personalized, effective regimen that my clients can rely on to keep their skin healthy and radiant.

Are there any other products that you love right now?Right now, I’m especially drawn to products that offer transformative results. Biologique Recherche P50 is a staple—it’s incredible for balancing the skin, refining texture, and promoting radiance. I also love Environ’s Cool Peels; they’re gentle yet effective, perfect for clients who want exfoliation without irritation. Korean skincare has a special place in my heart, too. I often incorporate hydrating layers, essences, and sheet masks inspired by Korean routines to create that healthy, dewy glow.

I’ve also been loving the Bedouin Elixir Facial Oil. It’s rich in antioxidants and feels incredibly nourishing, making it a perfect final step to lock in moisture and leave the skin radiant!

Are there any products/trends that you hate?
I wouldn’t say I “hate” any products or trends, but I do have concerns about certain practices that can be harsh on the skin. Over-exfoliation is one trend I see too often—many people use strong exfoliants or layer too many active ingredients, which can compromise the skin’s barrier and lead to irritation or sensitivity. Less is often more when it comes to skincare.

I also steer clear of trends that promote instant results at the cost of long-term skin health. Skincare should be about nurturing and supporting your skin over time, rather than looking for quick fixes that can cause damage. I always encourage my clients to focus on consistency and quality rather than the latest fads.

What beauty advice would you give your younger self?
Consistency with a few key products is far more effective than constantly chasing the next big trend.

I’d also remind myself of the importance of sun protection. I wish I had started using SPF earlier! It’s one of the simplest yet most powerful ways to protect your skin and maintain its health over time.

What is your absolute favorite skin spa/beauty treatment?
My absolute favorite treatment has to be the Bespoke Korean Facial. I love it because it combines some of the most advanced techniques with the deeply hydrating and rejuvenating principles of Korean skincare. It allows me to personalize every step based on my client’s skin needs that day, whether they need intense hydration, gentle exfoliation, or lifting and firming.

The Bespoke Korean Facial is also a wonderfully relaxing experience for my clients, and I can incorporate techniques like lymphatic massage and microcurrent to enhance their skin’s radiance and lift. It’s both luxurious and highly effective, and the glow it gives clients always brings a smile to my face.


You’re going on vacation, what beauty essentials are you bringing with you?

Whenever I travel, I keep it simple yet effective. My beauty essentials are a gentle cleanser to keep my skin fresh, a vitamin C serum for that extra antioxidant boost, and, of course, a Korean sheet mask or two to rehydrate after a day in the sun or travel. I also bring a lightweight moisturizer to lock in hydration and a reliable sunscreen to protect my skin daily. 

What is your skin philosophy? 
My skin philosophy is all about balance, simplicity, and embracing your unique beauty. I believe skincare should nurture and protect the skin rather than push it to extremes. This means focusing on quality ingredients, consistent care, and listening to what your skin truly needs. I love combining the wisdom of traditional beauty rituals with advanced techniques to create a regimen that’s effective and gentle.

I see skincare as a form of self-care that not only enhances how we look but also how we feel. When we approach skincare with patience and respect, it reflects in our confidence and overall well-being. At the end of the day, beautiful skin is healthy skin.

What is your signature facial?

My signature facial is the Bespoke Korean Facial. This treatment combines the best of Korean skincare techniques with a fully personalized approach, tailoring each step to my client’s skin needs. It includes deep cleansing, gentle exfoliation, and hydration layers, as well as advanced techniques like microcurrent and lymphatic massage for lifting and sculpting.

I also incorporate an oxygen dome and LED therapy to deeply rejuvenate the skin, promoting cellular renewal and a healthy glow. The facial finishes with a refreshing oxygen mist, which seals in hydration and leaves the skin looking radiant and revitalized.

This facial is all about attention to detail and combining tradition with innovation, giving clients a luxurious, transformative experience every time.

Where can people find you?

You can find me at my studio, Facials by Hoda, located in beautiful San Diego, California. I offer a range of personalized, luxury skincare treatments to help you achieve healthy, radiant skin. You can also book appointments or learn more about my services through my website at facialsbyhoda.com

For behind-the-scenes looks and skincare tips, you can follow me on Instagram at @facialsbyhoda