When you first meet Jonathan Nelson and Xan Clancy, co-founders of the newly rebranded AffiniDerm, their passion for skincare, beauty, and wellness radiates in every conversation. What started as a mobile hair and makeup service in Las Vegas has now transformed into a thriving, full-service wellness center. On a sunny Las Vegas afternoon, I had the pleasure of sitting down with these dynamic partners as they announced their exciting new chapter, while I myself prepared to undergo a comprehensive facial treatment and skin scan.

It wasn’t just a regular interview. This was personal. As co-publisher of QVegas Magazine, Russ White was excited to be a part of their story and to experience firsthand the level of care they provide. The conversation started with a major reveal—the official rebranding of their business to AffiniDerm, a name that reflects their deep affinity for skin and passion for helping clients achieve optimal wellness.

AffiniDerm: A New Name, Same Passion

“We’ve been evolving since we started,” Jonathan begins, his eyes lighting up as he talks about the journey he and Xan have taken together. “We started as a small mobile entity, doing hair and makeup on the go. We’ve grown so much since then, and we realized it was time for a rebrand that truly represents where we’re at now.”

Xan chimes in with palpable excitement. “We put a lot of thought into this. We wanted a name that speaks to our love for skin and what we do here. So, we’re now officially AffiniDerm because we have an affinity for skin. It’s not just about beauty; it’s about health, confidence, and empowerment.”

This name change marks a pivotal moment for Jonathan and Xan, whose journey from makeup artistry to skin care is as inspiring as it is relatable.

From Makeup to Skincare: A Passionate Pivot

The story of AffiniDerm began in 2018 when Jonathan and Xan launched a mobile hair and makeup service that quickly gained traction among bridal parties, bachelorette events, and local shows. Their business thrived on the Strip, catering to locals and tourists alike. But then came 2020, and like many, the global pandemic forced them to reconsider their business model.

Jonathan recalls, “When the pandemic hit, we couldn’t touch anyone. How do you do makeup without touching people? I had a moment of panic, not knowing what we’d do next.”

Xan, ever the optimist and Jonathan’s rock, encouraged him to pursue a long-held dream. “I told him, ‘You’ve always wanted to be an aesthetician. Now’s the time.’ So, we took out some student loans, and Jonathan went to school for aesthetics during the pandemic.”

Jonathan’s journey into skincare was a natural progression. His deep-rooted passion for skin health had always complemented his makeup artistry, and aesthetics allowed him to dive even deeper into what he loved most. “My makeup career was always driven by a love for skin care,” Jonathan says. “When I became an aesthetician, I felt like I could finally offer clients the full picture.”

A Vision for Community-Centered Care

As AffiniDerm evolves, Jonathan and Xan remain committed to creating a safe, inclusive space for all. Their med spa, which Jonathan affectionately calls a “beauty dojo,” is classified as a wellness center and offers a wide range of treatments—from basic facials and microneedling to Botox injections and laser hair removal. With an emphasis on overall wellness, their services cater to clients from all walks of life.

“We cover everything,” Jonathan explains. “We have basic facials, microneedling, Botox, laser hair removal, IV infusion therapy, and more. We even run labs for clients to see what their bodies are missing.”

Xan adds, “We’re not just a med spa; we’re a one-stop wellness center. Whether it’s skin care or overall health, we’ve got you covered. We want our clients to feel safe, confident, and well cared for.”

This focus on holistic care and inclusivity is especially important in the LGBTQ+ community, where beauty standards can often feel toxic or unattainable. Jonathan speaks passionately about the pressures many face: “There’s a lot of body dysmorphia in our community. It breaks my heart. People are told they’re not beautiful, and it affects their confidence. Our goal is to help people recognize that they are already beautiful—we’re just here to bring that out even more.”

No Judgment, Just Treatment: A Safe Haven for All

The ethos of AffiniDerm is perhaps best summed up by their tagline: No Judgment, Just Treatment. Jonathan and Xan have created a space where clients feel supported and safe, no matter their background, gender identity, or personal struggles.

“We’ve all been judged at some point,” Jonathan says. “I’m one of those people who has never felt beautiful, and that’s been my journey. But I want others to know that when they come here, they can be themselves. Whether you’re blue, purple, pink, or green, you’ll find a safe space here.”

Xan nods in agreement. “It’s about creating a non-judgmental environment. We welcome everyone—baristas, CEOs, men, women, kids, trans clients—everyone has a spot here.”

Their commitment to inclusivity goes beyond lip service. Jonathan and Xan are registered with Safe Space and take pride in ensuring their clients feel secure and celebrated, no matter their identity. “Our community has suffered enough,” Jonathan says. “We want to be a place where people can find joy, laughter, and confidence.”

Building Confidence from the Inside Out

At the heart of AffiniDerm’s mission is the belief that confidence is the most attractive quality a person can have. “Confidence is everything,” Jonathan says. “When you feel confident, you can take on the world.”

He and Xan see themselves as more than just skincare providers—they’re confidence builders. “We have clients who come in here with low self-esteem, feeling defeated by something as simple as a breakout or as complex as transitioning,” Xan says. “Our job is to help them feel beautiful, inside and out.”

Jonathan adds, “When people leave here, we want them to feel like celebrities. Whether it’s a facial, a laser treatment, or just a conversation, we want our clients to feel empowered and confident.”

Their commitment to building confidence extends to their offerings for the transgender community, including laser hair removal and laser facelifts. “We have trans clients who come to us for help with their appearance, and it’s an honor to be part of their journey,” Jonathan says.

Cutting-Edge Technology and Treatments

One of the cornerstones of AffiniDerm’s success is their use of advanced technology and medical-grade products. As I prepared for my treatment, Jonathan proudly showed me the state-of-the-art facial scan they use to analyze clients’ skin in depth.

“Our facial scan is a game-changer,” Jonathan explains. “It allows us to see what’s happening both on the surface and below the skin, which helps us determine the best course of treatment. This isn’t just about beauty; it’s about science.”

Today, I’m receiving the MIRApeel, a signature treatment that combines multiple rejuvenating techniques into one luxurious experience. As Jonathan describes it, the MIRApeel includes everything from micro-hydro dermabrasion and lymphatic drainage to microchanneling and red light therapy. “It’s the ultimate treatment for anyone who wants an instant glow,” he says.

Dubbed the “celebrity facial” by clients, the MIRApeel is a favorite among performers on the Strip who need to look their best without downtime. “Our celebrity clients love this treatment because they can go right back to work afterward, looking fabulous,” Jonathan says.

In addition to the MIRApeel, AffiniDerm offers a wide range of treatments, including traditional hydro facials, microneedling, plasma pen fibroblasting, and laser facials. They even offer IV infusion therapy, where clients can receive vitamins and nutrients directly into their bloodstream while getting a facial.

Jonathan and Xan are also big believers in education. “We don’t just treat people’s skin; we educate them,” Jonathan says. “I teach my clients about sanitation, how to care for their skin at home, and how to create healthy habits. I want them to understand their skin so they can protect it.”

Affordable Luxury for Everyone

Despite the high-end treatments and cutting-edge technology, AffiniDerm remains committed to making beauty and wellness accessible to everyone. They’ve introduced a membership program that offers clients the opportunity to receive regular treatments at a discounted rate.

“We have two tiers of membership,” Jonathan explains. “For $99 a month, you can choose one of four facials, including our popular derma plane facial. You also get discounts on skincare and other treatments.”

Xan adds, “And if you don’t use your facial that month, it rolls over. We don’t want anyone to feel like they’re locked into something they can’t commit to. We’re about flexibility and accessibility.”

This membership model reflects Jonathan and Xan’s desire to prioritize self-care, even for those who might not think they can afford it. “We commit more to Starbucks than we do to ourselves,” Jonathan laughs. “But for $99 a month, you can get an hour of pure self-care. It’s an investment in your confidence and well-being.”

Supporting the LGBTQ+ Community

As a gay-owned business, AffiniDerm is deeply rooted in the LGBTQ+ community. Jonathan and Xan are members of the

Lambda Business Association and have used their platform to support local LGBTQ+ events and initiatives.

“We’ve loved being part of Lambda,” Jonathan says. “We’ve attended so many events and networked with amazing people in the community. Speaking on the business panel was especially rewarding, as it allowed us to share our story and learn from other LGBTQ+ business owners.”

Xan adds, “The chamber has really helped us elevate our brand in the community. We’re grateful for the support, and we love giving back.”

One of their favorite ways to give back is by providing services for LGBTQ+ individuals who are transitioning. “Whether it’s laser hair removal or skin treatments, we’re here to help people feel confident in their own skin,” Jonathan says. “We want to support our community in every way we can.”

What’s Next for AffiniDerm?

With the rebranding to AffiniDerm now officially underway, Jonathan and Xan are excited about what the future holds. They’re expanding their treatment offerings, continuing to invest in cutting-edge technology, and planning to open additional locations to serve even more clients.

“We’re ready for the next phase,” Jonathan says with a smile. “We’ve got new treatments coming, more advertising, and a growing client base. It’s scary, but it’s exciting. We’re ready for this.”

As they look ahead, Jonathan and Xan remain focused on their mission to bring beauty, confidence, and wellness to the Las Vegas community and beyond. “We’ve worked hard to get here,” Jonathan says. “But we didn’t do it alone. Our clients, our community, and our support system have made this all possible.”

Xan adds, “We hope our story inspires others. We started with nothing but a passion for beauty and a drive to help others. And now, we’re building something beautiful, one treatment at a time.”

Final Thoughts

As I wrap up my interview—and my MIRApeel treatment—it’s clear that AffiniDerm is more than just a med spa. It’s a place where beauty meets empowerment, where clients are not just pampered but transformed, both inside and out.

Whether you’re looking for a quick facial or a complete wellness overhaul, Jonathan and Xan’s AffiniDerm offers something for everyone. And as they continue to grow, there’s no doubt they’ll keep making waves in both the beauty industry and the LGBTQ+ community.

For more information or to book a consultation, visit [AffiniDerm’s website](#).

Russ White is the co-publisher of QVegas Magazine and a dedicated advocate for the LGBTQ+ community in Las Vegas.