We recently connected with Lupe Lambaren and have shared our conversation below.

Lupe, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Risking taking is a huge part of most people’s story but too often society overlooks those risks and only focuses on where you are today. Can you talk to us about a risk you’ve taken – it could be a big risk or a small one – but walk us through the backstory.

Taking the leap to become an independent esthetician was one of the most significant risks I’ve ever taken, and it has been an incredible journey of growth and learning.

Working for various spa owners and franchises, I often found myself in competitive environments where building a client base felt like a race. It was common to see favoritism towards estheticians who could secure more clients and maintain a packed schedule, especially with the front desk staff. Despite the pressure, I always stayed true to my values, being genuine with my clients and colleagues rather than getting caught up in the competition.

My experience with independent spa owners varied, as each had their unique protocols for addressing skincare issues during facials. Often, I believed there were more effective ways to treat certain conditions, and this discrepancy fueled my desire to create a more personalized and effective skincare experience for my clients.

With a mix of excitement and fear, I decided to branch out on my own. Initially, I offered mobile services, which allowed me to bring my treatments directly to my clients. As my client base grew, I took the next step and rented a room, fully aware that the distance might deter some clients from following me. However, I remained confident in the relationships I had built and the quality of care I provided.

To attract new clients, I began marketing my services to members of The Tennis Club at Monarch Beach, where I currently rent space. This move proved to be a game-changer, as I started to see a steady flow of new faces eager to experience my customized facials.

One of the core principles of my practice is addressing each facial differently, tailored to the individual skin condition and needs of each client. I love to customize every facial and treat the skin’s present condition, gradually progressing my clients to more advanced treatments that can help with anti-aging, hyperpigmentation, and scars.

As I continue to grow my business, I invest in marketing through various channels, including Instagram, and collaborate with other independent beauty professionals. This entrepreneurial spirit has allowed me to expand my reach and offer my services to a broader audience.

This journey has taught me the value of staying true to myself, continuously learning, and adapting to new challenges. By focusing on personalized care and genuine relationships, I have built a thriving business that reflects my passion for skincare and my dedication to my clients.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

Absolutely, I’d love to share my story and what makes my skincare practice unique.

About Me:
I found my passion for skincare while attending ROP in high school back in 1982. Initially, I explored cosmetology and nail technology, but when the skin training portion began, I experienced an unexpected revelation. The moment I placed my hands on a student’s face, I knew this was my calling. It felt as if my hands were guiding me naturally through the massage, confirming that skincare was my true path. I waited eagerly for the Esthetician course to become available, and in 1990, I enrolled in beauty school, graduating and receiving my license in 1991.

My Journey:
Over the years, I’ve opened numerous skincare accounts and attended various classes to become certified in using advanced products and techniques. Today, I use CRL, BENEV, Esthemax, and Osmosis – all reputable medical-grade skincare lines.

Services I Provide:
I specialize in customized facials that address a wide range of skin concerns. From teenage and adult acne to anti-aging treatments, my services are tailored to meet the specific needs of each client. I pride myself on providing personalized care, understanding that each person’s skin is unique and requires a bespoke approach.

What Sets Me Apart:
What truly sets me apart is my dedication to understanding and solving skin problems. For instance, when addressing acne, I consider various factors such as diet, hormonal balance, and lifestyle to create a comprehensive treatment plan. For anti-aging concerns, I use a combination of products and monthly treatment routines that help restore elasticity, muscle tone, and skin luster.

My Philosophy:
I believe in affordable skincare solutions that allow clients to maintain regular treatments without breaking the bank. I offer a 10% discount for clients who prebook their next appointment, ensuring they receive continuous care without waiting for a punch card reward. This approach not only provides value but also shows my appreciation for their loyalty.

What I Am Most Proud Of:
The greatest satisfaction comes from seeing the smile on my clients’ faces and hearing them say they trust me. Knowing that I help them achieve their skincare goals and enhance their confidence is incredibly fulfilling. My passion for skin is driven by the results I see and the trust my clients place in me.

Final Thoughts:
To potential clients and followers, I want you to know that your skin concerns are my priority. Whether you are a teenager struggling with acne or an adult seeking a natural, radiant appearance, I am here to help. My goal is to provide exceptional skincare at an affordable price, ensuring you feel confident and beautiful in your own skin. Join me on this journey, and let’s achieve your skincare goals together.

Thank you for considering my services, and I look forward to helping you discover the best version of your skin.

Where do you think you get most of your clients from?

The best source of new clients for me has undoubtedly been word of mouth. When a client is referred to me by a friend or family member, it carries a significant level of trust. I understand how crucial this trust is because choosing someone to take care of your skin can be daunting.

To show my appreciation for these referrals, I offer a 20% discount on any facial to both the new client and the person who referred them. It’s my way of saying thank you. I also have several perks in place for clients who refer others to me, creating a win-win situation that keeps everyone happy and excited.

This approach not only helps me grow my business but also ensures that I give back to the clients who support me. Their satisfaction and trust are the cornerstones of my success, and I am deeply grateful for their ongoing loyalty and recommendations.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

One story that truly illustrates my resilience involves a college student who came to see me biweekly for crystal microdermabrasion and acne facials while I was working at White Rose Spa in Irvine Campus. Despite our consistent efforts, it felt like we were starting from scratch each time she came in, with her skin showing no signs of improvement.

Determined to help her, I began analyzing her skincare routine and asking detailed questions about her daily habits. I inquired about her morning routine, how she cleansed her face, and the timing of her cleansing, especially in relation to her showers. I even delved into her diet, asking about the foods she ate regularly. Despite these efforts, her skin issues persisted.

One day, I decided to dig even deeper and asked her to describe her morning diet in detail. When she mentioned that she ate Nutella on toast every morning, I immediately suspected this could be the culprit. I asked her to eliminate Nutella from her diet as a trial, explaining that this might be causing her breakouts.

Reluctant but willing to try anything, she agreed. Two weeks later, she returned for her facial, and the difference was remarkable. Her skin had stopped accumulating new breakouts, allowing me to effectively clear her skin and reduce the frequency of her visits. This success enabled her to graduate to other facial treatments.

This experience taught me the importance of patience and persistence. It reinforced the idea that identifying the root cause of skin issues sometimes requires looking beyond the obvious and considering all possible factors. It also highlighted the value of listening to clients and making them active participants in their skincare journey.

This journey not only helped me with this particular client but also sharpened my skills in detecting and addressing similar issues with others. And when I encounter a situation beyond my expertise, I never hesitate to refer my clients to a dermatologist. This comprehensive and client-focused approach is something I take great pride in, as it underscores my commitment to helping clients achieve their best skin health.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.angelictouchfacial.com/
• Instagram: @angelictouchfacial
• Yelp: https://biz.yelp.com/biz_info/qKHq4crtyKo_ODgGVwxy7g

Image Credits

I filmed and took pictures of my clients all before and after.