We’re incredibly proud of NAA members and the unique ways that they apply Nutritional Aesthetics® in their personal and professional lives. It’s our goal to support them and share their wisdom by highlighting their stories with you in a periodic ‘Member on a Mission’ feature. Our latest featured member, Richard Merrill-Rivas, has been a believer in the NAA’s mission since before it formally began. As a nationally-recognized celebrity aesthetician, educator, and holistic health and business coach, it came as no surprise to us when he was awarded the ‘Game Changer’ award for Industry Leadership and Education, as well as 2nd place in the People’s Choice category at the inaugural national competition for aestheticians, The Skin Games. In his practice he develops customized protocols and treatment plans for each client to address their chief skincare concerns, utilizing non-invasive modalities and high-performance botanicals. Richard takes great care to not use phthalates, sulfates, parabens, mineral oil, synthetic dyes, or fragrances, and to educate his clients on better ingredient choices for their overall skin health. As an Integrative Nutrition® Health Coach, he’s also able to go deeper with clients, to help them address potential root causes of their skin issues. We are thrilled to feature Richard as an NAA Member on A Mission.
NAA:
NAA:What excites you the most about the Nutritional Aesthetics® Alliance?
Richard Merrill-Rivas:
I support the Nutritional Aesthetics Alliance because together everyone achieves more. There are many outstanding leaders across this industry who have inspired my professional growth, and the NAA brings those leaders to the forefront of the discussion. This in turn creates deeper credibility for independent practitioners and a new generation of leaders working their way up the ranks to achieve new levels in their career.
In order to be successful you must surround yourself with successful, thought-provoking leaders, and in this community created by NAA we are going to create impressive change!
NAA:
How do you apply Nutritional Aesthetics® principles to your work?
Richard Merrill-Rivas:
In my private practice and at the spa in which I’m employed, I take great pride in offering consultations during my services that introduce my guests to the skin-health link. Many guests come to me expecting to clear up chief skin concerns with services and a home care regimen alone. Together we discuss lifestyle additions utilizing my education from the Institute for Integrative Nutrition that focuses on “crowding out” less-than-desirable habits. My greatest asset in improving skin health is reinforcing positive affirmations that encourage action and commitment in the hearts of my clients. Celebrate every win—no matter big or small.
NAA:
For optimal skin health, I wish people would do more of ___________________, and less of ___________________.”
Richard Merrill-Rivas:
For optimal skin health, I wish people would commit to a consistent lifestyle regimen, and opt less for the invasive procedures that do not address the root cause of their chief concern.
We want to hear from you!
We applaud Richard’s role as a leader in the aesthetics industry, and we admire his passionate support of his clients’ progress, significant or small. What’s one way you serve as a cheerleader for your clients—or your loved ones—and their healthy actions?
Do you want to be featured on the NAA blog?
In addition to our Member on a Mission feature, we also offer NAA members exclusive opportunities to showcase their own Nutritional Aesthetics® philosophies on our website and to our email and social media communities as one of the benefits of NAA Membership. Click HERE to learn more about our value packed membership program, and join us today!