Meet Kim Pham
I became an esthetician when I trained at the Carita Institute in Paris. I earned my CIDESCO diploma in 1987 — the highest international certification in esthetics. I founded Spa Elysee in Burlingame and ran it for 30 years. I have treated thousands of clients. I have watched every skincare trend arrive, peak, and disappear.
And through all of it — for more than 40 years — the one thing that has never changed is my belief in Biologique Recherche.
I discovered BR early in my career. I trained directly under Madame Allouche — one of the visionaries from the original Biologique Recherche team in Paris. That experience shaped everything about how I approach skin. The philosophy is simple but radical: every skin is completely individual. Before a single product is recommended, you have to understand the skin in front of you. Not the demographic. Not the trend. The actual skin.
That's still how I work today. Every client. Every time.
Get in touch
Feel free to call or text Kim to schedule an appointment for your facial or waxing needs.
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Why Biologique Recherche — and why it works
Most skincare brands are built around demographics. BR rejects that entirely. It's built on the bilan cutané — a detailed skin assessment that treats your skin as a completely unique ecosystem. The products are formulated at concentrations most brands won't attempt, because they're designed for use under the guidance of a trained professional.
That's why having an expert in your corner matters. Knowing which product to use, in what order, in what concentration, for your specific skin — that's not something a label can tell you. That's 40 years of experience.
A career built on one conviction
1969 — Carita Institute, Paris. Formal training begins.
1987 — CIDESCO Europe Certified. Highest international certification in esthetics.
Early career — Trained under Madame Allouche, original BR Paris team.
30 years — Spa Elysee, Burlingame CA. Founded and led as owner and principal esthetician.
Today — First Class BR, San Jose. Now sharing 40 years of expertise with clients and professionals worldwide.
Kim at Biologique Recherche Flagship in Paris
““I have never seen two people with the same skin. And I have never given two people the same treatment. That is not a philosophy I learned from a brand. That is 40 years of paying attention.””
““I am a licensed esthetician for over 20 years — my bar is very high. Kim is a rare find. Her pricing could be much higher — she provides the highest quality you could possibly receive.””
““After trying a few other places, Kim has been the one who really helped me get my basics right and understand what my skin actually needs. I struggle with hormonal acne and some scarring — I’ve seen such a difference since working with her.””