We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Giselle Spratley a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Giselle , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. How’s you first get into your field – what was your first job in this field?

Looking back, my journey into becoming a medical esthetician feels like a mix of hard work, divine timing, and knowing how to seize opportunities. Right after I graduated esthetics school and passed my state board exams; both the written and practical, which was no small tasks. I felt this incredible sense of relief and gratitude. By the grace of God, a connection through a friend opened a door for me. They introduced me to someone who was starting their own spa, and they offered me a chance to join as an independent contractor.

At the time, I was nervous but excited. I didn’t know everything, but I knew enough to get started. I created my own business, which I called SkinLikeZelly back then. It was just me, my hands, and a dream. I poured everything into each facial, and my clients began to notice. Word spread, and my boss did too. She ended up promoting me to not just the lead esthetician but also the creative director for her spa’s marketing. She saw I had a natural talent for social media and branding, which gave me a lot of confidence to grow beyond just the treatment room.

From there, I knew I wanted to experience more. I took jobs at dermatologist offices and some of the most luxurious med spas in Beverly Hills and West Hollywood. I soaked up every bit of knowledge I could. I wasn’t just giving facials; I was learning about different techniques, treatments, and the type of environment I’d want to create someday.

I always had this vision of opening my own studio in Beverly Hills, where I could offer both advanced treatments and a personal, family-like touch. Skin88 Studio came alive from that vision. It’s my baby, my heart, and my way of sharing not just skin care but a sense of abundance and care with every client who walks through the door.

Looking back, I’m so grateful for that first job. It taught me that you don’t need to have everything figured out; you just need to start. I learned how to build relationships, trust my instincts, and bring value beyond what’s expected. That first opportunity shaped me and planted the seeds of what Skin88 is today.

Giselle , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I’m a 28-year-old single mom to an incredible non-verbal child with autism. His name is Sebastian and he is my biggest inspiration and motivation. I launched Skin88 Studio to create something meaningful, not just for myself and my family, but for every client I have the privilege to serve. Skin88 Studio is a place where science, care, and results come together to help people feel confident and empowered in their skin.

At Skin88, we specialize in advanced facial treatments, including lymphatic drainage facials, Brazilian body massages, sculptural lifting facelifts, HydraFacials, and customized acne treatments. What truly sets us apart is our use of clean, clinical-grade products made with botanical ingredients. These products combine the healing power of nature with cutting-edge science to address a range of concerns like acne, premature aging, and imbalances all while being gentle and effective.

What makes Skin88 unique isn’t just our treatments; it’s the experience we create for our clients. My approach is rooted in treating every individual like family, providing warmth, understanding, and a results-driven plan tailored specifically to their needs. Whether it’s a teenager struggling with acne or someone seeking anti-aging solutions, I make sure they leave with not only better skin but a renewed sense of confidence.

I’ve spent years honing my craft in luxury medspas, wellness clinics, and dermatology offices, learning from the best and building a strong foundation of expertise. Those experiences taught me the importance of blending professionalism with a personal touch. Now, as the founder of Skin88 Studio, I’ve created a space where clients feel supported, cared for, and truly heard.

One of the things I’m most proud of is how Skin88 embodies the concept of abundance, not just in skin health but in how clients feel about themselves. The ’88’ in our name symbolizes abundance in every aspect of life, and that’s what I aim to provide: treatments that nurture your skin, your confidence, and your spirit.

Looking ahead, I’m excited to grow Skin88 Studio into a full-fledged wellness medspa. Once I complete nursing school and become a Registered Nurse, we’ll expand our offerings to include injectables, laser hair removal, and advanced esthetics. My goal is to provide the most comprehensive care possible while staying true to the warmth and authenticity that define our brand.

If you’re considering working with Skin88 Studio, know that this isn’t just about skincare. It’s about creating a lifestyle of self-love, care, and abundance. I’m here to empower you, celebrate your uniqueness, and help you achieve the glowing skin and confidence you deserve!

If you could go back, would you choose the same profession, specialty, etc.?

Yes, yes, and absolutely yes! If I could go back, I’d choose this profession and specialty every single time. I feel so grateful to do what I love every day. Walking into my studio never feels like work—it’s a space where I get to help people feel confident, cared for, and radiant. That kind of fulfillment is priceless.

My best advice is to follow your passions, and the money will come. Never chase money; chase what truly lights you up inside. When you’re doing something you love, it reflects in your energy, your work, and your overall happiness. That’s what makes life fulfilling and exciting. Waking up every day knowing you’re building your dreams while living with purpose.

We work to live, not live to work. I always remind my friends, family, and even the young clients who ask me for advice: do what makes you happy and run with it. The joy and passion you bring to your craft will naturally attract success, abundance, and opportunities.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

I moved to Los Angeles in 2020 during the pandemic, originally pursuing modeling. While I made good money, I quickly realized how toxic that life was for me personally. It didn’t fulfill me at all. One night, I was out with my girlfriends, and during a heart-to-heart, I shared how unhappy I was modeling and how unsure I felt about what to pursue next.

When we got home that evening, all the stores were closed, and we didn’t have anything to remove our makeup. My number one rule in life is never sleep with makeup on! So, I got creative, DIY style and concocted a cleansing oil using ingredients from the kitchen. To my surprise, it worked perfectly, it removed all of our makeup and didn’t cause any breakouts.

One of my friends looked at me and said, “Giselle, this is it! This is what you need to pivot and go after.” That was my lightbulb moment. The next day, I called my manager, told them I was done with modeling, quit my agency, and enrolled in esthetics school. From that point forward, everything began to align, and the rest is history.

Now, I get to wake up every day doing what I love, building a career that fulfills me and allows me to help others feel confident in their own skin. It’s a decision I’ll never regret, it led me to my true passion and purpose.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://skin88studio.glossgenius.com
• Instagram: skin88studio
• Yelp: skin88studio

Image Credits

Photogrpaher: @Kateynne_wagner