Meet Pure Essence
Learn about the backgrounds, specialties, and personal philosophies of our medical staff that guide their approach to wellness and aesthetics. We take pride in our team's commitment to excellence, innovation, and empathy, ensuring that every client's experience is as unique and remarkable as they are.
Leadership Team
Dr. John Schmidt
Medical Director
MD, Plastic Surgeon
Dr. Schmidt holds advanced degrees from The City University of New York, Columbia University, and the University of Alabama, Birmingham. He has been inducted into several honor societies and has been awarded several honors and stipends at his graduations. Because of his academic scholarship, he was able to graduate medical school in less than 3 years. He completed his residency training at Yale and has remained continuously on staff for more than 30 years. He has been a clinical faculty member of Yale School of Medicine, recently becoming an assistant professor, as well as the coordinator for plastic surgery training for residents. Dr. Schmidt has had the honor of doing post-graduation training with giants in the cosmetic surgery including Dr. Howard Smith and Dr. Donald Wood-Smith. Dr. Schmidt has done numerous pro bono surgical procedures at both Yale and St. Raphael Hospital. He and his wife have recently endowed a fund at Yale University that assists the surgical residents’ staff with outreach programs in Africa.
Iole M. Punzo
Founder, Co-Owner
RN, BSN, ANS
Iole is a highly accomplished nurse and aesthetic practitioner with over 30 years of experience in the healthcare industry. A graduate of St. Joseph College, she earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing with a minor in Biology in 1994. Iole began her career in the ICU, specializing in acute trauma and surgery, where she developed her deep commitment to patient care.
In 2000, Iole transitioned into aesthetics after completing over 800 hours of training at The New England School of Aesthetics Education. Her passion for helping others led her to combine her clinical expertise with medical aesthetics, making her a leader in the field. Over the years, Iole has undergone extensive training in injectables, lasers, and CoolSculpting technology, earning recognition as a master injector and aesthetic specialist.
Iole is certified in the use of advanced technologies, including Cynosure, Alma, and Sciton lasers for skin resurfacing, pigmentation, vascular lesions, and hair removal. She is also trained in Thermage, Ulthera, and Venus Freeze—the gold standard for non-invasive skin tightening. Additionally, Iole has assisted physicians in numerous surgical procedures, including scar revisions, facelifts, body augmentations, and laser-assisted liposuction. Her expertise extends to sclerotherapy, laser vein removal, and PRP therapy for hair stimulation and skin rejuvenation.
Her injectables certification, achieved through the Accreditation Council for Medical Aesthetics at Beth Israel Medical Center in New York City, qualifies her in neurotoxin and filler administration. As a certified master injector through Allergan, Iole specializes in facial sculpting and liquid facelift techniques, consistently delivering exceptional results.
In 2023, Iole co-founded Pure Essence, a wellness and aesthetics center built on the belief that true beauty begins within. Currently pursuing her nurse practitioner degree at Chamberlain University with plans to graduate in 2025, she aims to further her commitment to functional medicine—a holistic approach that integrates Eastern and Western practices to optimize health and wellness. Her philosophy—“Only 100% client satisfaction and quality”—is the foundation of her practice, emphasizing hard work, passion, and expertise to ensure every client looks and feels their best.
Iole’s mission is to preserve dignity and confidence in those she serves, whether by restoring physical health or enhancing natural beauty. As she continues to advance her career, she remains devoted to making a positive impact, one client at a time.
Costantino Lupoi
Co-Owner
Business Manager
As a seasoned entrepreneur and proud union member of Laborers Local 230 in Hartford, CT, Costantino Lupoi has successfully launched and managed various businesses, ranging from restaurants to construction.
Driven by a passion for innovative design and building thriving ventures, Costantino embodies the essence of determination. His guiding philosophy is: "If you don't mind having a comfortable life, you shouldn't mind the hours you put in to get there."
A Calabrian born in Italy, Costantino arrived in the United States at 16, immediately embracing the country's vast opportunities. Through hard work and perseverance, he pursued his vision of success. As co-founder and Business Manager of Pure Essence, Costantino is dedicated to creating a healthier and better world. His commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction is unwavering.
Medical Professionals
Deanna J.C. Zimkus
Dermatology PA
Physician Assistant
Deanna is a Rhode Island native that completed her Physician Assistant training at Quinnipiac university, completing her bachelors in 2007 masters of health science in 2009. She began her PA career in the emergency room and then transitioned to dermatology full time in January of 2012. She has known since high school that dermatology was her calling. Her particular interests within dermatology are treatment of inflammatory skin diseases: acne, atopic dermatitis and psoriasis and skin cancer detection. Starting in 2024, she has joined Pure Essence to continue to promote her love for skin health and anti-aging.
Deanna served for a decade on the board of the Connecticut Academy of PAs in various roles including president, vice president and regional director. She holds adjunct faculty appointments at both Quinnipiac and Sacred Heart Universities. Dedicated to educating future healthcare professionals, she regularly precepts PA students. She also teaches the dermatology module to the PA students at Sacred Heart University every fall.
At Pure Essence Deanna provides a multitude of services including: acne treatment, rosacea treatment, hair loss treatment, skin tag removal and hyperhidrosis.
Skincare and Aesthetic Experts
Paola Silva
Office Manager
Medical Esthetician
With two decades of unwavering dedication to the salon and spa industry, Paola is a seasoned Esthetician who brings a wealth of experience to every client she serves. Her journey is a testament to a profound commitment to beauty and well-being. With Paola you're not just receiving a service; you're embracing the expertise and artistry cultivated over 20 years in the pursuit of timeless beauty.
Shelly Brown
Nurse
RN, BSN
Shelly brings a wealth of experience to our team at Pure Essence, with a diverse background in emergency care, perioperative care, and community health. Passionate about promoting holistic wellness, Shelly is dedicated to delivering compassionate, personalized care tailored to each client's unique needs. She is currently pursuing a master's degree at Quinnipiac University to become a nurse practitioner, further enhancing her ability to provide exceptional care. With her extensive nursing expertise, Shelly ensures that every client feels confident and cared for during their aesthetic journey.
Wellness and Therapeutic Specialists
Alyssa Stare
Alyssa is a highly skilled and licensed acupuncturist with a diverse background in personal training, fitness, and nutrition. She earned her Master's degree in Oriental Medicine, equipping her with an in-depth understanding and expertise in various healing modalities, including Chinese herbs, acupuncture and Amma/Tui Na.
Alyssa specializes in treating orthopedic pain, chronic pain, post-operative pain, and sports-related injuries. Her integrated approach combines the wisdom of traditional Oriental medicine with modern therapeutic techniques to provide comprehensive and individualized care.
With a passion for promoting health and wellness, Alyssa is dedicated to helping her patients achieve optimal physical and emotional well-being. Her empathetic and holistic approach ensures that each patient receives personalized treatment tailored to their unique needs.
Whether you are recovering from an injury, managing chronic pain, or looking to enhance your overall health, Alyssa is committed to guiding you on your journey to a pain-free and balanced life.
Patty Snabaitis
Bio Coming Soon
Marketing and Support Team
Betzy Osorio
