The first Wildling Studio opened this week in Santa Monica, marking the brand’s shift from online tutorials to in-person wellness rituals. This transition reflects a broader movement within the beauty industry, where digital-first brands are increasingly recognizing the value of tactile, immersive experiences. Wildling’s founders, Gianna De La Torre and Jill Munson, have long advocated for skincare as a practice rather than a routine, and the studio embodies that ethos by offering a space where education and application merge seamlessly.
The space sits inside the Frank Gehry-designed Edgemar complex, a location chosen for its architectural significance and creative energy. The complex itself is a landmark in Santa Monica, known for its undulating metal facades and open-air courtyards, which provide a serene backdrop for the studio’s offerings. By situating itself within this environment, Wildling Studio aligns with a community that values artistry, innovation, and mindful living.
A space built for slowing down
Wildling Studio offers three 30-minute express facial rituals: Sculpt, Depuff, and Release. Each treatment is tailored to address common modern concerns, such as the effects of prolonged screen time, stress-induced tension, or the sluggishness that often accompanies a disrupted sleep schedule. The Sculpt ritual combines gua sha techniques with lymphatic massage and Wildling skincare to restore definition and vitality to the complexion. The Depuff treatment targets fluid retention by stimulating lymphatic drainage and reducing swelling. Release focuses on relieving the physical manifestations of stress, particularly in the jaw, neck, and forehead, areas where tension tends to accumulate unnoticed.
Beyond these treatments, the studio hosts workshops, masterclasses, and private sessions that look deeper into the principles of facial massage, movement, meditation, and energy work. These sessions are designed to be interactive, allowing participants to engage with the material in a way that passive online tutorials cannot replicate. The founders’ emphasis on slowing down is not merely a marketing angle but a core tenet of the brand’s approach. They argue that the true benefits of skincare tools like gua sha emerge only when users take the time to understand their bodies and the subtle signals they send.
The studio’s layout reinforces this idea. Instead of a linear retail space, it is divided into distinct zones that serve different purposes. A central area features display shelves stocked with Wildling’s products, including the Bian stone (a type of traditional Chinese healing stone) gua sha tools and skincare line, but these are not the focal point. Nearby, a communal table encourages conversation and hands-on learning, while a separate lounge area provides a quiet space for reflection or informal gatherings. The design prioritizes flexibility, allowing the studio to adapt to various events, from intimate one-on-one consultations to larger group workshops. This versatility ensures that visitors can tailor their experience to their needs, whether they seek a quick treatment or a deeper dive into wellness practices.
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From screens to hands-on learning
Wildling’s products, including the cult-favorite Moonbounce moisturizer and the Empress Stone gua sha tool, have been featured in beauty guides for years, often praised for their efficacy and the brand’s commitment to holistic wellness. However, the founders have consistently observed a disconnect between the intended use of these tools and how they are actually employed by consumers. Many users, for instance, apply excessive pressure during gua sha, believing that more force will yield better results. In reality, this approach can lead to bruising, irritation, or even damage to the skin’s delicate lymphatic vessels. The studio addresses this gap by providing real-time feedback, allowing practitioners to demonstrate the correct amount of pressure, the optimal angle for strokes, and the most effective sequences for different facial zones.
The shift from digital to physical learning also allows Wildling to expand its educational offerings in ways that were previously impossible. Online tutorials, while accessible, lack the nuance of in-person instruction. A video might show the general motion of a gua sha stroke, but it cannot account for the unique contours of an individual’s face or the specific areas where tension is held. At the studio, practitioners can assess each client’s needs on the spot, adjusting techniques to target problem areas or accommodate sensitivities. This personalized approach not only enhances the effectiveness of the treatments but also empowers clients to replicate the techniques at home with greater confidence.
Moreover, the studio serves as a hub for community-building, a concept that aligns with Wildling’s broader mission. The founders have spoken about the isolation that can accompany modern beauty routines, where individuals often engage with products in solitude, without guidance or shared experience. By creating a space where people can learn, practice, and connect, Wildling Studio supports a sense of belonging and collective growth. Workshops and events are designed to be inclusive, welcoming both beginners and seasoned practitioners, and encouraging participants to exchange insights and experiences. This communal aspect transforms skincare from a solitary activity into a shared ritual, reinforcing the idea that wellness is not just about individual outcomes but also about connection and mutual support.
Wildling Studio is located at 2443 Main Street in Santa Monica’s Edgemar complex. Current treatments, workshops, and events can be found on the brand’s website, where visitors can also explore the full range of products and educational resources that have defined Wildling’s approach to beauty and wellness.
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