You might recognize the name Ottmar Stubler as the president and formulator of PFB Vanish, a topical gel relief for irritation associated with hair removal. What you might not know about Stubler is that he remains an active educator within the spa industry, or that he is a licensed esthetician, or that when he's not working on skincare, you can find him playing music. Get to know a little more about Stubler in our latest installment of Spa Talk.
AS: How many years have you been involved in the spa and hospitality industry?
OS: I received my esthetician’s license in 1986.
What was the path that led you into the spa industry?
In the '80s, I was surrounded by people in this industry. I saw what an impact it had on people from every aspect…from their self-esteem to their livelihood. I realized this industry was always going to be advancing and changing lives, and I wanted to be part of it.
What are the most challenging and rewarding parts of being in the spa industry?
The most challenging is keeping up with all the new ingredients coming into the market and the most rewarding is learning about all the new ingredients that came into our industry.
What is your proudest accomplishment?
Formulating PFB Vanish!
What has surprised you most about working in the spa industry?
At first physicians – particularly dermatologists – didn’t want anything to do with estheticians in the mid-1980’s, but when they began to realize how many women came to salons for skin care treatments their attitudes slowly changed in part because it was another great source of revenue for them.
Where do you think the industry is heading?
The industry will always be strong as people will always want to look and feel young. As newer technologies emerge it will bring even more estheticians into the esthetics field.
What’s your favorite skincare ingredient?
Glycolic Acid or Chromabright! In general, I prefer ingredients that are multi-taskers, and address more than one issue at a time.
If you could work in any other profession in the world, what would you be?
Music. I’m in three bands currently; I play the trombone in a marching band, a jazz band and a funk band. I also play the accordion and I sing.
What is the strangest client request you’ve fielded?
In the late 1980’s working as an esthetician I would wear a tie and lab coat. I was giving a facial to a regular client and just before starting extractions she grabbed my tie, pulled my head down and gave me a kiss.
What new spa treatment would you like to try?
I think I'd like to try micro-blading.
What’s your go-to spa treatment?
I’m pretty basic – I love a 90 minute deep tissue massage.
What’s the best advice you’ve received?
“Get into a business where you can make money while you’re sleeping.”
How would you sum up your personal philosophy?
Work hard; play hard!
How do you like to spend your time away from work?
Playing with my Jack Russell and traveling with my wife.
What are your three greatest priorities in life?
Family, friends, and faith.
What are two things we don’t know about you?
Mums the word!
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