By Tyler Martin
As a college student, I’m constantly on the go, whether it’s classes, extracurriculars, or social events. Although I prioritize my skincare routine, my skin can still end up feeling stressed. I’ve found that facials give my skin a chance to rest and reset, which is why I was eager to try the Knockout Beauty College Student Facial.
This new treatment is a collaboration between Knockout Beauty and O2, a pilates studio located in The Terminal at Katy Trail, a buzzy new restaurant and retail development about 10 minutes away from SMU. Its goal is to “tackle breakouts and blemishes,” while also addressing a student’s “individual needs,” according to the O2 website.
The facialist behind all of the treatments at O2 is Jennifer Sanchez, who I’ve known since she worked at another premier skin care spa in Dallas. I started seeing her during my freshman year at SMU, and she helped me work on my skin goals, allowing me to maintain healthy skin despite the stress of the semester, the “nutrition” of the dining halls, and the damage done by water in the dorm showers. Now that she was in a new place working with new treatments, I was eager to see how it would go.
When I arrived at O2, Sanchez greeted me and led me upstairs to the treatment room. Despite frequently attending O2’s reformer pilates, I had never noticed this space before. Like the main studio, the facial room features bright, fresh accents and sleek white equipment. I could already tell this was going to be both relaxing and effective.
The facial began with a thorough skin consultation. Sanchez analyzed my skin and asked about my concerns before cleansing, which included steam and a facial massage-an instantly calming experience. If needed, she will do extractions after. The core of the facial was this customized peel, tailored to target acne and promote radiant, healthy skin.
Sanchez used the Environ Cool Peel to refine skin texture, clear clogged pores, and address pigmentation. She then applied the Perfect B3 Toner, which is formulated with niacinamide to combat acne and speed up cell turnover which promotes fresher, younger-looking skin. Next came the LUMION Serum, which contacts hypochlorous acid–a natural compound found in white blood cells that helps fight bacteria and reduce inflammation. These products, available for purchase at O2, were carefully selected to target my breakouts and blemishes. To further enhance the facial, Sanchez incorporated red LED light therapy to promote healing and a cold hydrating mask to soothe and replenish my skin.
While Knockout Beauty does not officially customize facials, Sanchez tailors the experience by asking detailed questions about her clients’s skincare routines, current concerns, and any medications that might affect their skin. She made thoughtful adjustments based on my responses, making sure that my treatment addressed my skin’s immediate needs.
Though the treatment lasted just an hour, every minute felt really intentional. While the face mask set, I chatted with Sanchez or enjoyed a light massage. She’s just as warm and welcoming as the rest of the O2 team, making the experience feel like chatting with a friend. The upbeat music added to the invigorating ambience– though if spa music is more your speed, you can request to play your own playlist.
After the facial, my skin felt noticeably smoother, less congested, and incredibly glowy. Whether it was the message, the extractions or the peel–or maybe just Sanchez’s magic–I left feeling completely refreshed.
Since I was due for a skincare product restock, I asked for recommendations. Unlike some beauty professionals who push a complete product overhaul on you after a treatment, Sanchez takes a really thoughtful approach. She focuses on ingredients and offers personalized advice without insisting I replace everything. By the end of the appointment, I felt like I had taken a master class in skincare, excited to implement what I had learned.
The 60-minute treatment costs $225. Between the expert facial, engaging conversation, and visible results, you get your money’s worth.
Now, you can take a pilates class at O2, get a facial with Knockout Beauty, and grab a matcha at Rose Cafe–all in one trip. Sounds like a perfect day if you ask me.
Note: While the service was provided to the author free of charge, it is completely editorially independent. The service provider had no input into how, when or whether it was written, as per SMU Look Media’s editorial policy.
Cover Artwork by Staff Member Athena Mamatas
