MEET PHYLLIS - THE EXPERT BEHIND THE CHAIR

Meet Your Aesthetician - Your Skin's New Best Friend

Phyllis is Washingtonville's corrective skincare studio where you walk in a client and leave a friend.

MY JOURNEY

The Story Behind Skin & Tonic

SKIN AND TONIC OWNER PHYLLIS DEFREESE

"You walk in a client and leave a friend. That's the Skin & Tonic promise and it's one I take personally every single day."

With over 25 years of experience in professional skincare, Phyllis is passionate about helping clients achieve healthy, radiant skin through customized treatments and advanced corrective skincare.

As a New York State Licensed Aesthetician and Face Reality Certified Acne Specialist, Phyllis has helped countless clients transform their skin by treating concerns such as stubborn acne, sun damage, hyperpigmentation, rosacea, and age management. Her customized, results-driven approach is designed to restore healthy, radiant skin at every stage of life.

Drawing from years of experience in prestigious Fifth Avenue and Westchester plastic surgery and medical spa practices, where she cared for a diverse clientele, including celebrities and public figures, Phyllis combines clinical expertise with a personalized approach. She specializes in advanced Korean corrective skincare, incorporating innovative technologies and regenerative treatments such as PDRN, exosomes, spicules (liquid micro- needling), LED light therapy, nano infusion, and customized corrective facials.

Before pursuing aesthetics full-time, Phyllis spent six years as a nursing assistant and completed two years of nursing school, giving her a strong foundation in patient care, anatomy, and the science behind healthy skin.

SKIN AND TONIC OWNER PHYLLIS DEFREESE

Her philosophy is simple: no two people, and no two skin types are alike.
Every treatment is thoughtfully customized to address each client’s unique concerns while creating a relaxing, restorative experience.

Known for her warm, honest approach and attention to detail, Phyllis has built lasting relationships with clients throughout the Hudson Valley, many of whom have trusted her with their skincare for years. She is also honored to have been recognized as Best Aesthetician in Best of Westchester magazine.

When she’s not in the treatment room, you’ll find Phyllis spending time with her family and friends, or wherever there’s live music! She’s a proud mom of two, a grandmother, and a lifelong music lover. Her passion for helping people feel confident in their skin is what inspired her to create Skin & Tonic, a welcoming space where advanced skincare meets relaxation, and every client feels genuinely cared for.

Best of Westchester

Award-winning recognition from Westchester Magazine for excellence in esthetics and client results. The only local esthetician with this credential.

Face Reality Certified

Certified Acne Specialist through Face Reality, the science-backed acne program that clears skin when nothing else has. Available for all ages, all skin types.

NYS Licensed Esthetician

Fully licensed and insured in New York State with ongoing advanced education and professional certifications in current modalities.

Korean Skincare Specialist

Specialized training in authentic Korean Corrective Skincare protocols, bio-stimulating therapies, spicule treatments, and advanced K-Beauty infusion technology.

Celluma LED Certified

Certified in FDA-cleared Celluma LED light therapy for acne, anti-aging, and tissue repair. Used as a standalone or seamlessly incorporated into corrective treatments.

25+ Years Experience

Over two decades across medical spa, luxury spa, laser technology, and independent practice. More experience than any other solo esthetician in the local competitive landscape.

Testimonials

Phyllis is hands-down the best esthetician I've ever seen. My skin has completely transformed after three sessions. I drive from Middletown specifically to see her-you can't get this level of Korean skincare expertise anywhere else in Orange County. Worth every mile.
Sarah M.
Washingtonville, NY
I struggled with hormonal acne for years. Tried other estheticians, tried dermatology. The Face Reality Acne Bootcamp with Phyllis actually worked. My skin is clear and I finally understand how to take care of it. She's the real deal — knowledgeable, caring, and honest.
Ashley K.
Newburgh, NY
I've tried facials all over Orange County and nothing comes close. My skin barrier has never been this healthy. The Korean specialty facial she recommended changed my skin texture. She's an expert, not just an esthetician. You walk in a client and truly leave a friend.
Jessica L.
Monroe, NY

READY TO TRANSFORM YOUR SKIN?

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