We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Elisha “Elle” Brandel a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Elisha “Elle”, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. So let’s jump to your mission – what’s the backstory behind how you developed the mission that drives your brand?

As a mission-driven esthetician and artist, my purpose is to help people feel beautiful and confident in their own skin—empowering them to look in the mirror and smile with genuine joy. Whether it’s through vibrant face painting that delights a child, crafting the bridal makeup look a client has always dreamed of, or guiding someone to finally achieve clear, healthy skin, my goal is to spark joy and self-assurance in every person I serve. This mission isn’t just a professional pursuit; it’s a deeply personal calling rooted in my own transformative journey.

Years ago, I struggled with severe acne that left me feeling self-conscious and defeated. I tried what felt like everything—countless products, remedies, and quick fixes—but nothing worked. It wasn’t until I found an esthetician back in my hometown in Virginia who truly understood acne, someone who combined expertise with empathy, that I began to see a change. She didn’t just treat my skin; she helped me reclaim my confidence. That experience was a turning point for me. It showed me the profound impact that skilled, compassionate care can have—not just on someone’s appearance, but on how they feel about themselves. Inspired by her guidance, I dove headfirst into studying skincare, eventually becoming a certified Acne Expert with Face Reality. I wanted to pay forward the help I’d received, to be that source of hope and transformation for others.

That’s why this mission means so much to me. I know firsthand the frustration of feeling trapped in your own skin, the longing to look in the mirror without wincing. I’ve been there, and I’ve come out the other side—not just with clearer skin, but with a renewed sense of self. Now, every time I help a client solve a skin issue, create a magical face-painting moment, or bring a bride’s vision to life, I see it as a chance to share that same liberation and joy. My work is about more than aesthetics; it’s about connection, empowerment, and celebrating the beauty that’s already there. To me, there’s nothing more meaningful than helping someone rediscover their own radiance—because I know what it’s like to find mine.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Hello! I’m Elle, an esthetician, makeup artist, and face painter with a passion for transforming people’s faces into canvases of joy, confidence, and beauty. My journey into this creative and caring craft began with a love for artistry and a personal experience that reshaped my life. Growing up, I was always drawn to the magic of makeup and painting, but it was my own struggle with severe acne that truly set me on this path. After years of battling breakouts and trying every solution under the sun, I found relief through an esthetician I met back home in Virginia who used her expertise to heal my skin. That experience didn’t just clear my complexion; it ignited a fire in me to study skincare and help others the way I’d been helped. I became a certified Acne Expert with Face Reality in 2017, mastering their Clear Skin Method, and blended that knowledge with my artistic roots to create a career that’s equal parts science and creativity.

In 2020, I moved to Los Angeles to be near family and attend a Discipleship Training School with YWAM, a pivotal moment that deepened my sense of purpose. Soon after, I rejoined the family business, Los Angeles Princess Company, where I get to dress up as beloved characters, sing, tell stories, and, my favorite—bring smiles to kids’ faces with colorful face painting. That whimsical weekend work complements my day job as an esthetician, where I offer personalized skincare services, specializing in acne treatment. I also provide makeup artistry, from everyday looks to dream bridal designs. Whether I’m painting a child’s face, perfecting a bride’s glow, or helping a client banish breakouts, my services are all about inspiring joy and confidence.

For my skincare clients, I solve problems like chronic acne by going beyond surface fixes. I use my training to heal current issues, then play “acne detective” with them—identifying triggers like diet, stress, or pore-clogging products to stop breakouts before they start. My clients have endearingly called me a “skin nerd,” a title I wear proudly because it reflects my dedication to getting results. What sets me apart? It’s my blend of artistry and expertise, paired with a heartfelt commitment to treat every client the way I’d want to be treated—delivering facials and services at the quality I’d expect myself. After spending the last four years at a small studio working alongside another skilled esthetician, I’ve recently branched out on my own. Starting in May 2025, I’m welcoming clients with a renewed sense of independence and determination

I’m most proud of the moments when a client looks in the mirror—whether after a facial or a face-painting session—and lights up with a smile. That’s the payoff for me: seeing someone feel beautiful and confident in their own skin. What I want potential clients to know about me and my brand is this: my work is personal. I’ve been the girl hiding behind her hair because of acne, and I’ve been the artist who finds joy in making others feel seen. I bring that empathy, along with professional skill, to every appointment. My new practice isn’t just a business—it’s a promise to keep creating, healing, and celebrating beauty in all its forms. If you’re looking for clear skin, a magical moment, or a makeup look that feels like you, I’d love to be part of your story.

How do you keep in touch with clients and foster brand loyalty?

I love the saying, “Strangers are friends I haven’t met yet,” and it’s the foundation of how I approach every client relationship. To me, they’re never just business—they’re people I get to know, care for, and grow alongside. Keeping in touch and fostering brand loyalty isn’t about fancy tactics for me; it’s about building genuine friendships through listening, celebrating, and showing up in ways that matter, whether I’m clearing their skin, painting a child’s face, or creating their dream makeup look.

One way I stay connected is by truly seeing my clients as individuals. When someone sits in my chair—whether for a facial or a makeup session—I make it a point to listen. I’m an ear when they need to vent about a tough day, and if they’re comfortable with it, I’m always open to praying for them through life’s ups and downs. It’s not uncommon for a skincare consult to turn into a heartfelt chat about their stresses or joys, and I cherish those moments. That trust keeps us linked beyond the appointment. After a session, I’ll often follow up with a personal message, like texting with a link to something they may like, or emailing to see if they loved their makeup look at their big event or film shoot. It’s a small touch, but it shows I’m invested in them, not just the transaction.

Celebrating with clients is another big piece of how I build loyalty. When someone’s been on an acne journey with me, I love snapping before-and-after photos and sending them over with a note like, “Look how far you’ve come! I’m so proud of you!!” That shared excitement, and seeing their confidence bloom, ties us together. For my face-painting gigs with Los Angeles Princess Company, I make every child’s experience unforgettable by asking about their favorite things (maybe it’s dinosaurs or princesses) and watching their eyes light up as we chat. I’ll weave that into their design, so they feel like the star of the moment. Parents tell me their kids talk about it for weeks, and that joy keeps them coming back. With makeup clients, I go beyond the brush; I ask what makes them feel like them, ensuring they’re heard, not just polished. They’re more than a pretty face to me, and I want them to know it.

Practically, I stay in touch through little, consistent gestures. Social media’s a big one. I’ll share snippets of my work, like skincare tips, and tag clients (with permission) to spotlight their moment. I engage back when they comment, keeping that friendly vibe alive. As I launch my solo practice in May, I’m planning for more content to help my followers practically or make them smile; think quick acne hacks, a peek at my latest princess gig, or a cheesy dad joke (because I love them so much)… so clients feel looped in without it being pushy. For regulars, I might slip a handwritten note with their order, or a mini product sample into their day as a thank-you. It’s my way of saying, “I appreciate you and want to bring you a little extra joy today!”

What fosters loyalty, I believe, is this: I’m there for the highs and lows. I celebrate their clear skin wins, cheer at their kid’s birthday party, or hold space when life’s heavy. Clients stick with me because they feel known—whether I’m solving their acne woes with Face Reality’s Clear Skin Method, turning their child into a superhero, or making them glow for a big event. I’m most proud when they text me months later with an update or book again because they trust me. What I want them to know about my practice is that it’s built on heart—I see you, I hear you, and I’m here to make your day brighter, one face at a time.

What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?

The most effective strategy for growing my clientele? Hands down, it’s results. I’ve learned that when you deliver real, tangible change, whether it’s clearing someone’s acne, painting a kid’s face with joy, or nailing a bridal look, people notice, and they talk. But getting to that point didn’t happen overnight. It started with a choice to specialize, and for me, that meant diving deep into acne care. My own battle with severe acne years ago wasn’t just a struggle. It was a spark. After finding relief through an esthetician’s expertise, I knew I wanted to do the same for others. So I threw myself into learning everything I could, earning my certification as an Acne Expert with Face Reality, studying their Clear Skin Method, and practicing relentlessly to build both skill and confidence. Specializing gave me a clear focus, and over time, it’s become the backbone of my growth.

I don’t pretend to know it all. Humility keeps me grounded. But I’ve poured my heart into mastering what I can do. That dedication pays off when a client sees their skin transform. I’ve helped teens banish stubborn breakouts, adults ditch years of frustration, and everyone In between feel at home in their own skin. Seeing their relief and newfound confidence? That’s what makes it worth it. And the best part? Happy clients become my loudest cheerleaders. When someone loves their results, whether it’s smooth skin after months of acne or a kid beaming at their face paint, they can’t stop talking about it. Friends ask, “Who did that for you?” and suddenly I’ve got a new client calling. Referrals are gold. They’re honest, personal, and way more powerful than any ad I could buy.

It’s not just about the endgame, though. How I get those results matters too. I take time to really know my clients. With acne, I’m part detective, digging into their triggers. Maybe it’s dairy sneaking into their diet, irritating makeup, or a stress spike. I tailor a plan that works for them. That personal touch builds trust, and trust turns one-time clients into regulars who send their cousins, coworkers, and neighbors my way. Even with face painting for Los Angeles Princess Company or makeup gigs, I make it memorable by asking a kid about their favorite superhero or a bride about her dream vibe. Those little connections stick, and parents or bridesmaids remember me when the next event rolls around.

As I gear up to launch my solo practice in May, I’m leaning on this strategy more than ever. Of course, I also use social media to stay visible and show competency. At its core, my growth comes down to doing the work well and letting clients spread the word. I’ve seen it firsthand. Help someone love their skin or light up their day, and they’ll do the advertising for you. That’s not just effective. It’s the most rewarding way to grow.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.losangelesprincesscompany.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elle0laesthetics?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAae3vRz_L2uV2RBcneRIDDsyF20fZ2VttKk9cr_MrfTLGTg3GnNUtCeZRI2U6Q_aem_v4lR_XFZoE5KqU8GU_Xw9g
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elisha-brandel/
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/acne-expert-elisha-elle-brandel-burbank

Image Credits

Koury Angelo Photography, Inc.