We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Robyn Graham a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Robyn, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Let’s go back in time to when you were an intern or apprentice – what’s an interesting story you can share from that stage of your career?
Different States mandate Clinical Hours to be a Registered or a Certified Electrologist. Gaining my theory & clinical hours through my internship at school was an extra certification at the time to hold a higher CO License toward Esthetics. I wasn’t sure how I would build this into my very busy schedule. I’m so glad I did. Electrolysis was somewhat protocol for additional education wanted toward Aesthetic Care. Also Theory & Clinical hours mandated by the AEA in order to test for the Electrolysis National Board of Electrology, to obtain the highest level of Electrology Certification available has brought much opportunity for me with leaders in the Electrology world. Internship isn’t alway working under supervision, working with colleagues holds many lessons to be learned too. With this said the clinical hours working with each individual person has opened my eyes into different worlds. Electrolysis is an amazing treatment but it does require more than one appointment depending on the treatment area(s). That time spent together becomes very personal, a place where people talk. Their life stories are special. I once had a Doctor (client) who called me her medical bar tender. I didn’t really know what that meant. She explained that I probably know more about my clients than most professions do, with the quality time spent in my chair with each individual client. Even though I knew my importance of “trust”, she presented this perfectly. You can’t learn these experiences in a text book. Internship is opportunity that brings many experiences. Whether It be from an educator, a client, a patient, an employee, or a colleague, I’ve been blessed through out my life with many people who have crossed my path with leadership. #priceless
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
My career began in the field of cosmetology. Graduating at the top of my class with honors, I received scholarships to continue on at PBA to study cosmetology at a higher level. In 1986 I completed my Advanced Master Classes including Graduate Division of Advanced Hair Design with Redken Scientific School, presented by PBA, Master Esthetic Skin Care including Theory of Electrolysis. Demonstrating a mastery of cosmetology knowledge and skills. In Addition my Management PBA internship included business classes at Point Park.
I felt the need for more academics to gain additional knowledge toward Electrolysis. After returning to PBA’s Institute of Electrology, I successfully completed additional Electrology Training, graduating again with high academic honors.
After many satisfying years as a Salon/Spa owner, I left the ‘fun and creative’ side of Cosmetology and focused solely on Electrolysis and the biology surrounding the hair follicle.
Electrolysis hair removal is a completely different treatment than Laser hair removal. People often confuse Electrolysis & Laser treatments. Electrolysis is still the only “Permanent Hair Removal” recognized by the FDA. I take pride in educating my clients so they fully understand the process of electrolysis. I care and I’m compassionate about treatments a client might need with the variety of options available in today’s market for esthetic hair removal, hair reduction or Permanent Hair Removal. After a consultation, clients are free to choose the type of treatment that fits their personal needs. If Electrolysis is their choice, I’m available. My Integrity in sincere.
Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?
Life itself is never a smooth ride, if it were it would be very boring. There are many bumps in the road as we travel the pathway to success. Challenges come in many forms. Personal Challenges that I faced while building my business was, being a care taker throughout my sisters severe head injury, the birth of my twins and my move to Texas. Choosing how we react to any challenge will reflect in a positive or negative result. I try to move in positive directions. That itself is not always easy mentally or physically. With that said, the struggles I have experienced along my career journey have made me stronger which brings much success, confidence and strength to my self worth. This accomplishment is priceless.
People measure success in different ways. I have always had a strong sense of faith in most everything I believe in. I keep my door open with any opportunities that come my way. I feel very fortunate that I have always had great clients and family support. Each and every one of my clients through the years have made a positive effect on my life.
Do you think you’d choose a different profession or specialty if you were starting now?
Absolutely not! Although Electrology, advanced Aesthetics Training & Cosmetology was not originally planned as a career goal, my education path took a curve in my early 20’s. I believe everything happens for a reason, good or bad. My career led me to many professional and personal opportunities. I love where this Electrolysis journey has taken me. Having the invite to join Elaris Med Spa/ Wellness Clinic with a team of educated Nurse Practitioners and an advanced Skin Care Specialist is a perfect combination & a true blessing. These ladies are amazing! I’m very fortunate.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.hairbgoneelectrolysis.com/
- Instagram: @hairbgonetexas
- Facebook: @HairBGone
- Linkedin: https://linktr.ee/hairbgone
- Twitter: @HairBGoneTexas
- Yelp: HairBGone Electrolysis
- Other: https://www.elarismwc.com/ Elaris Med Spa