This interview was originally published on the Rationale website.
Dr Joseph Hkeik, Rationale Luminary
There’s something endlessly fascinating about catching a glimpse into the daily rituals of those we admire. Seeking inspiration for the perfect morning routine, we asked Rationale Luminary and aesthetic physician of more than 20 years, Dr Joseph Hkeik, how he begins each day.
“Generally speaking, my early mornings are very sacred Joseph-time,” says the Founder of All Saint Clinic. “I spend the first hour of every day very quietly, with no devices, generally no talking, and a cup of good coffee in hand.”
Perhaps it’s this gentle start to the day that has become the foundation of Joseph’s success, earning him a loyal clientele of celebrities and industry leaders who visit one of his elegant All Saint Clinic locations for his signature approach to natural beauty and exceptional care.
Yet beyond high-profile clients and glamorous events, spending time with Joseph reveals that it is a peaceful life, grounded by family and the restorative influence of nature, that he values most.
Home has meant everything to us over the past 12 months. Where do you call home?
At the moment, Sydney is home for me. But if I ever had to leave, Paris would be my next choice.
In a pre-COVID world, we know you were quite the keen traveller. Where do you turn now for a sense of escape?
Before COVID, I was regularly travelling, usually around six trips each year. Many involved teaching, with multiple stops throughout Europe, particularly Paris and London. Since I haven’t been able to travel, I’ve found my escape closer to home, spending time in the Southern Highlands at my peaceful retreat in Bowral.
Step us through your morning and evening routines.
After my first quiet hour each morning, I usually head to the gym. I focus primarily on resistance training, alongside the occasional yoga or meditation session. Afterwards, I have breakfast, either at home or at my mother’s house when I’m visiting our Parramatta clinic. I then prepare for the day and aim to arrive at the clinic by 9:00 am.
Once I’m there, the morning begins with emails, reviewing my appointments for the day, meeting with my team and preparing for my first patient at 10:00 am.
My evenings are very different. I often spend the drive home making a few phone calls, responding to clients or catching up with friends along the way.
When I arrive home, I love to cook, so my evenings usually begin in the kitchen before winding down with a little television, catching up on emails and spending some time reading. I tend to go to bed quite early.
Besides your daily skincare, what is another ritual of yours?
One ritual that’s important to me is calling my mother every morning for a quick chat, even if I’m planning to see her later that day.
You’ve been a dedicated Rationale advocate for many years. How did you first discover the brand?
As an aesthetic physician, research has always been an important part of my work. I first discovered Rationale after reading about its formulations in various industry publications. I knew it was a brand I wanted to introduce when I eventually acquired our Double Bay clinic because I recognised such a strong synergy between Rationale and All Saint Clinic.
As a luxury skincare brand, Rationale complements the All Saint Clinic experience beautifully. Beyond that, the formulations are exceptional and have become an important part of many of our clients’ skincare journeys.
What do you see as your greatest achievement?
The greatest achievement of my career has been opening All Saint Clinic in Double Bay. After more than 15 years in the industry, my vision was to create a community of loyal clients who wanted to become the best versions of themselves. Seeing that vision come to life is something I’m incredibly proud of.
The Double Bay clinic also allowed me to bring together everything I’d learnt throughout my career while collaborating with interior designer Blainey North to create the peaceful, refined environment our clients enjoy today.
Having expanded All Saint Clinic to three locations, alongside the launch of Le Petit Saint, what’s next on the horizon?
For the time being, I am content with our three All Saint Clinic locations and the recent launch of Le Petit Saint. Had we not experienced COVID, my next ambition would have been to expand All Saint Clinic internationally.
What brings you the greatest happiness and contentment today?
As a survivor of the war in Lebanon, I truly value being surrounded by peace. Spending quality time with my family and friends, enjoying nature and working in a peaceful environment bring me the greatest happiness.
And what are you most proud of?
Without question, my parents-my late father and my mother—for sacrificing so much to bring our family to Australia and give us opportunities we otherwise may never have had.
Finally, how would you describe yourself in three words?
I find it difficult to describe myself, but I’m often told that I’m loyal, passionate and honest.
