Candace Marino Is Someone We Really Like
Photo from The LA Facialist
by The Candidly Team
There are facialists, and then there are Facialists. You can guess which one Candace Marino is.
Her life-changing thoughts on facial massage are the reason everyone here behind the scenes of The Candidly now has glowing, shining, blindingly bright skin. Her client list is overflowing with the biggest celeb names on earth, but tbh, that’s not really the draw for us. Candace’s knowledge about skin, skincare, what products work, what products are a total waste of money, and her no-bullshit take on the entire industry is why we keep coming back for more.
Of course, during the pandemic, we are no longer able to pop into her studio in LA for a dose of her magic, and are all slowly shriveling into dry, husked ghouls. But the moment the world becomes safe again, Candace Marino’s hands on our face in a darkened room, will be our first stop.
In lieu of lying on her table while she massages us into near catatonia, we gave Candace a quick, socially-distanced call to ask about some of her favorite things. And some of her not favorite things. And as is always the case, she was funny, smart, surprising, and candid. Ahem.
The Candidly Questionnaire
1. In a word, what is your most compelling quality?
My ability to find the humor in everything.
2. In a word, what is your biggest challenge?
Answering questions in one word... just kidding! Staying on track, the inner me wants to be free!
3. What kitchen tool do you use every single day and kind of can’t live without?
Does a reusable water bottle count?
4. When do you feel most connected with yourself?
On a motorcycle, where I’m alone with my thoughts, can’t hear anyone, and can’t answer a phone call.
5. Are essential oils anything?
I’m pretty sure they’re responsible for me never getting sick. I swear by oregano oil. Any time I feel a tickle in my throat coming on, I blend up some oregano oil capsules and the next morning I'm fine!
6. Do you struggle at all with boundaries? How?
As a new business owner I definitely struggle with boundaries. I’ll say, “I’m gonna take today, or a weekend or a week off,” and then I end up answering emails/calls/texts the entire time. The last year of my life has been nonstop work even when I’m not working.
7. How do you dampen self-critical thoughts when they get too loud?
This might sound kind of dark, but any time I have bad thoughts or I'm upset about something, I say “its only life,” meaning…nothing is THAT serious. I live knowing that I’m going to die one day and I try my best to not allow critical or irrational thoughts to rob me of a good day.
8. Describe the most “you” outfit of all time.
Black jeans, a vintage t-shirt, and Saint Laurent ankle boots.
9. What meal can you make the hell out of?
The one culinary area I truly excel in is my ability to order for the entire table. That's my superpower. No one’s ever sat at a table that I’ve ordered for and been unsatisfied.
10. What book has made the biggest impact on your life?
The Alchemist. It's such a simple, beautiful story. I’ve read it at least twenty times, and each time I pick it up I find another little gem in the pages.
11. Apart from family, what woman do you deeply admire?
I really admire my client Erika Girardi. She honors and displays all parts of her personality, from refined to outgoing to sexy to smart; she is fearless and authentic. So many of us get stuck on one version of ourselves, and we are so much more complex than that.
We should be allowed to evolve, and grow and express ourselves freely without people questioning it - contradictions and all. You’re allowed to be a Gay, Black, Jewish Republican if thats what you are, and you don’t have to be ashamed just because you’re not what people expect you to be. Erika doesn’t allow anyone to define her, she defines herself, and I deeply admire and respect her for that. Besides that, she is down to earth and kind and just an overall good person.
12. Why does the word “feminist” get people so wound up?
Because everything gets people so wound up! I think if this year has taught us anything, it's that people get upset by words, actions, movements that don’t align with their own personal beliefs or their own reality. Here's my statement on feminism— every single person on the planet who came out of a woman should respect, support, and uplift women.
13. Which Insta account’s stories do you always tap through until the end?
My girlfriend Adele - @lifeslookingood. Her feed is a visual feast.
@Charlesgalanismd: His plastic surgery is some of the best I've seen and he delivers his information in a fun and digestible way, which, in my experience, is rare for a doctor.
My friend @mattyholloway: the only person on the planet I would want to swap lives with. He is actively crossing off MY bucket list and traveling the world. Every time I look at his story I'm like, yep he's doing it!
@iamcardiB: Do I even have to explain? She is just pure entertainment.
14. Do you think social media’s good qualities outweigh the bad?
If I didn’t have a business, I definitely wouldn’t be on Instagram. For business it makes sense, it's a huge free marketing platform. But Instagram and other social media outlets rob you of your natural creativity. Before Instagram, people were more curious and hungry for life, now people are hungry for appearing interesting and getting likes. So do the good qualities outweigh the bad? I guess it depends on what you're using it for.
15. What quote or phrase has really stayed with you?
“Tell them who you are.” My grandfather used to say this to us as kids, and it stuck with me. As a child, we moved a lot and I was the “new kid” several times, I was never afraid to walk into a new situation and introduce myself. I’ve always been okay on my own, and my independence is something I value most. I definitely think that phrase shaped me into the person I am today.
16. Do you have a phobia? How do you deal?
You’re going to think I’m an an insane person with this one: I'm terrified of Mount Rushmore. It’s my only true fear in life. According to a psychic, I died while constructing it. So, you’re welcome America.
17. How do you feel about cilantro?
Anyone who doesn’t like cilantro has the palate of a four year old.
18. Describe, in detail, your perfect bedtime routine.
Taking a long shower, doing all the skincare, having my massage therapist come to my house to massage me for two hours, and then I sleep walk to my bed and pass out until the next morning.
19. What’s your favorite thing on the internet?
I have a low-key obsession with Enya. She now lives in a castle in Ireland, alone, with several cats. She doesn’t go out in public often and prefers not to listen to other artist’s music to protect her own creativity. I like her commitment to herself.
20. What’s your relationship with bangs?
I have a massive cowlick so it's definitely not a good look for me.
What is your single favorite:
Wellness product that *actually* works: A good old fashioned stool softener. Try one and tell me I'm wrong.
Lip balm: This is probably the hardest question for me to answer. I have an entire drawer dedicated to lip balms. But because this answer wouldn't be complete without an SPF recommendation (yes you need SPF on your lips): The SuperGoop Play Lip Balm SPF 30.
Jeans brand: Anine Bing. I love her classic cuts, they fit like a dream and they're great on the booty.
Mascara: I hate mascara. I go to Minx Lash Club and see Yuliya who gives me a fresh, fluffy set of lash extensions without looking like I have an awning sitting on top of my eyes.
Robe: My Helena Quinn silk robes are the coziest and most luxurious pieces in my wardrobe.
Last-minute gift: Skincare, because I stock some of the best skincare lines on the planet, and everyone loves receiving it. If i'm in a pinch I'll just go shopping in my inventory.
Bra: The bra I won’t have to wear once I get a breast lift!
Shampoo: Davines Oi. If you’ve smelled it, you know.
Comfortable shoes: I have an entire section of my closet dedicated to Chuck Taylors and Vans, I love them both and can’t decide.
Splurge skincare: Biologique Recherche, no question. Their products are highly effective and customizable. I’m so anti “luxury brand,” which is basically putting perfume on your face. If I’m spending top dollar on a product it better work!
Drugstore skincare: Versed Skincare. I’m into their brand, their ethos and the products are budget friendly.
Everyday bag: My Rane Leather Goods “Candace” bag, named after ME! Kate, the designer of Rane, makes the most classic and chic bags made of the most buttery leather. I needed a bag I could throw everything in, and generally prefer a crossbody, she created one perfect for my laptop, water bottle and whatever random skincare I’m schlepping between my house and office.
Podcast: The Ambitchious Podcast by Katie Boyd. Katie is my business mentor and kind of like a life coach to me. Her podcast teaches you how to physically and spiritually declutter your life to excel and she delivers her information in a no BS way that is so refreshing.
Drink: Black unsweetened iced tea by day, tequila by night.
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