Virtual Skincare Consultation Platform Launched From Vienna

VIENNA, VA — A new virtual skincare consultation platform is taking root in Vienna.

Vienna-based Protea is a brand that provides virtual consultations from licensed estheticians who can provide advice on skincare routines and products.

Founder Mackenzie Jorns came up with the idea after being diagnosed with advanced Lyme disease in college. Jorns had to learn about how body alignments connect with skin conditions — in particular acne and eczema. By researching and experimenting herself, Jorns made her own curated products under the name Protea, named after an African flower symbolizing strength and courage. She also launched a buy one, donate one offering, where Protea donates one SkinConfidence Skincare Kit to an unhoused woman at a shelter or detox facility for every product sold.

Now Jorns wants to continue encouraging women to work on self care through the consultation platform. The Protea platform allows clients to connect with estheticians with a range of specialties. Jorn believes women from all backgrounds should have access to licensed professionals at a price point they're comfortable with.

"I started Protea’s Skin Support Consultations because I wasn’t able to find virtual solutions that were unaffiliated with products," said Jorn. "It felt disingenuous, like there was an underlying motive behind every product suggestion. Our platform is for clients that are looking for skincare advice on everything from lifestyle changes, major life events and even creating a basic skincare routine."

The platform initially has eight licensed estheticians, most of whom have 10 or more years of experience. The estheticians are familiar in a variety of products from drugstore to professional grade products. Prices for a 30-minute consultation range from $39 to $79, and estheticians keep 100 percent of the consultation rates.

"Virtual meetings are the new norm, so there’s no reason why they can’t be used to help people get better results with their skincare," said Shannon Jones, an esthetician based in New York City with 20 plus years of experience. "If I think a client needs in-person treatment after our first consultation and they are not based in NYC, I can recommend another Protea esthetician in their area or provide a detailed plan that they can share with a professional of their choosing."

Consultation booking is available at www.bookprotea.com.