Shani Darden on Jennifer Aniston’s skin care tips and favorite retinol

Shani Darden knows what’s fashionable for the skin.

The celebrity esthetician has spent years working with famous faces like Jessica Alba, Kim Kardashian and Jennifer Aniston — the latter of whom is a big fan of her brand’s cult favorite Retinol Reform Serum ($89).

“He knows so much about skin care and I’m honored that he loves Retinol Reform,” Darden tells Page Six Style of the “Friends” star, who once called the product “fantastic” in Interview with Byrdie.

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After all, you don’t have to book that coveted facial to get Darden’s signature glow at home; skin specialist tells us that while there is no one-size-fits-all procedure, she recommends her clients stick to a few simple steps.

“The biggest mistake people make is overdoing it,” says the beautician, who recommends using cleansers, moisturizers and SPF – such as Supergoop! Invisible Sunscreen ($38) or Colorescience Face Total Protection Face Shield SPF ($49 $47) – followed by skincare actives like retinol at night.

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“Retinol Reform is perfect to use a few nights a week with my Lactic Acid Serum to encourage cell renewal, reduce the appearance of wrinkles and improve the overall texture of the skin,” she explains.

Her arsenal also includes the Triple Acid Signature Peel ($125), which she was inspired to create during the pandemic to bottle her famous facial product.

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“Before an event, I love giving my clients a lactic acid peel because it’s great for all skin types and isn’t too harsh; it doesn’t dry you out, you literally leave glowing,” adds Darden, who performed a professional version of the treatment on stars such as Irina Shayk, Riley Keough and Janelle Monáe before this year’s Met Gala.

And while she’s still checking off career highlights on her list — like shining stars on fashion’s biggest night — Darden’s career in Hollywood began when Jessica Alba accidentally arranged a date with her at a spa in Los Angeles.

“It’s actually a funny story. We didn’t talk much at first; I like to let my clients relax during facials, I’m usually really focused and calm,” says the skincare specialist, recalling that their “entire relationship changed” when she later told Alba she was six months pregnant.

“It was the beginning of an amazing friendship,” he recalls. “She loved sharing all things kid-related, inviting me to do kid things, and even encouraging me to go out on my own and start my own studio.”

Now, years later (and countless celebrity encounters in her studio), Darden is still hesitant to say she’s “made it” in Hollywood.

“It’s an honor for me that they come to me and trust me,” he says.

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Why you should trust shopping like Page Six

This article was written by Hannah Southwick, trade writer/reporter at Page Six Style. Hannah spies affordable celebrity wear, puts Hollywood’s favorite brands to the test, and finds beauty products that will make stars red carpet ready. He consults with stylists and industry professionals – including celebrities themselves – for first-hand product recommendations, trend predictions and more. In addition to writing for Page Six, her work has been published in USA Today and Parade since 2020.

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