In Good Company: Lauren Garrison.
A series where I interview other skincare experts.
You know the first time you meet someone and what you thought would be an hour-long coffee turns into three? Enter Lauren Garrison.
For all the qualms I have with social media, I love a DM-to-IRL story arc. Lauren and I were “Instagram friends” before she suggested we grab coffee one morning. And full disclosure, I felt intimidated; she’s established in her career, runs her own practice in a very vibey studio, and knows a lot. I, on the other hand, started my esthetics business … 5 months ago? But thank goodness imposter syndrome didn’t win because I love meeting other experts and making new friends!!
We’re back with the second installment of In Good Company (here’s the first). I can’t wait to share more from Lauren – let’s get into it.
Ashley: Tell us how you found yourself in esthetics – what led you to this career?
Lauren: I’ve loved skincare since I was a little girl; I was always reapplying my sunscreen (editor's note: ok, humble brag) and putting on fun face masks at sleepovers. But it mainly started when I was a senior in high school and had the worst acne I’ve ever experienced. I took a 1,000mg biotin supplement and broke out … people would stare directly at my acne while talking to me and it made me so self conscious. I got my skin to clear but then I was left with post-acne marks. I wanted to help people with the same struggle.
What do you love about working in this industry?
The relationships you build with clients … being the first to tell that they’re pregnant, getting married, breakups, struggles – all of it. You establish life-long relationships.
What’s one thing you didn’t learn in esthetics school but wish you would have?
I would’ve liked to learn more about combination therapy treatments, I’m super fascinated by stacking multiple treatments!
If you could only do one treatment for the rest of your career, what’s your pick and why?
Probably microneedling – it’s a one-stop shop. It stimulates collagen, improves texture, and also helps with acne. And the downtime is so minimal and can be done year-round!
What skincare practices or philosophies do you try to instill in your clients?
Definitely the importance of sunscreen and reapplying! (Many of) my clients struggle with pigment, too – heat is their worst enemy. Sometimes you have to shorten those super steamy showers to get the even skin tone you’re wanting.
What have you learned about yourself since opening up your own esthetics practice?
I have more of a creative mind than I thought! I love being able to create the space of my dreams where everyone feels cozy and safe, and make a menu that is results-driven for clients. I’m also learning to be way more confident in myself and my work.
Think back to your first skincare routine, which is maybe a generous word for some of us. Are there any products you used that you (and your skin) would be mortified by today?
Oh, absolutely – I used the good ole’ Clean & Clear Morning Burst with the little beads. I think unfortunately I was a St. Ives Apricot Scrub user, too … those were sad days.
Are there any skincare trends, ingredients and/or treatments making waves in the industry that you’re excited about?
The CO2 Lift Pro Mask has been taking over the internet and it’s 100% worth the hype and every penny. Mixi Skincare has become my new favorite acne line and I can’t wait to see that grow. SIV is a new microbiome product and amazing for repairing and rejuvenating the skin.
Thank you so much to Lauren! You can find her here, and for any Kansas Citians (especially in the Northland), do your skin a favor and book a visit to her studio.