Today we’d like to introduce you to Justina Lesassier.
Justina, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Starting out in the IT field, I knew I had a knack for a career that was customer-driven and hands-on. I really enjoyed working with people and instructing them on how to do things and fix their issues. Once, I had my daughter, she became my why. I wanted her to see her mother, the person she would look up to and emulate, happy. Happy and fulfilled in a career and not just a job.
I had to dig deep into myself to find my passion and calling. A constant in my life was always around music, fashion, makeup, and making people feel good about themselves. That’s when I decided to go back to school at 35 years old, to become an Esthetician.
Because of esthetics school and my alma mater, New York Institute of Beauty, I discovered that I could help people in a different way. A way that would impact them, body, mind, and soul. I began my career immediately after graduation working in a Medical Spa treating clients with laser modalities. I continued my journey working in day spas supporting relaxation and focusing on skin treatment therapies. I have also become a licensed esthetics educator as well as a spa manager. My career is well-rounded and continues to fuel my passion. One of the things I love about this industry is that it is ever-changing and growing.
I am given the continued opportunity to change and grow. I have the motivation it takes to stay relevant, and up-to-date with my education. All of which benefit the client. People are still unaware of the functions of the skin and the importance of taking care of it. There is a continued misconception that skincare is a luxury. Our largest organ needs our protection. It’s the first and last line of defense for our body, mind, and soul.
Nurturing the skin not only keeps our barrier intact, by preventing infections, disorders, and disease, but when treated properly in the hands of a professional, it can offer physical and physiological changes for overall well-being. For me, it’s the act of service that lights my soul and gives the clients their desired results.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Becoming an Esthetician is not for the faint of heart and despite what it may seem, not a career option for everyone. Especially, for those that think “beauty school” is easy and a get-rich-quick solution. It takes hard work, perseverance, dedication, devotion, passion, and motivation. There are definitely times when burnout strikes and you begin to wonder if this career is still the right path.
Trying to set yourself apart from the plethora of options consumers have, at times can make it difficult to feel that you are “good enough”. One of the biggest struggles is knowing your worth. Not everyone may be able to afford the services I provide, but I refuse to sell myself and my education short of what I deserve. I give my very best to each person I serve and I have come to expect the same.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
As a Spa Manager and practicing Esthetician, my role is extremely dynamic. Not only do I ensure the practice is running smoothly, I make sure that my team and the clients are happy. One of my specialties is making clients feel comfortable and safe. They trust me with my suggestions and my treatments. They get results and we don’t have to compromise our integrity. I am known for my facial massage. I’ve been told that my facial massages feel like butterflies kissing the skin. Clients tend to fall asleep during that time and when they wake up, they feel lightweight and relaxed.
While I love what I do, sometimes it can be a sacrifice on the homefront. My daughter has expressed that she is proud of me because she has seen me put in the work, and watched my efforts pay off. I think that’s one of the things that sets me apart from others. I am willing to adapt to the changing world around me. I am aware that I need to continue to analyze myself, evaluate where I am, and work on what I need to do to make sure that my services are above and beyond. I always keep in mind that the human condition is fragile and that I’m in a position where I can provide safety, comfort, and care. That is a big responsibility that I am willing to hold.
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
This industry is continuously changing, shifting, and trending. I definitely believe that the technology will get faster and stronger.
As new devices emerge with the rate of returns on investments in mind, how fast can treatments be performed in order to maximize time in the spa? The more clients we can see in an 8-hour shift the better. This seems to be the trending philosophy for most.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://justiquespa.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justiquespa/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jlesass
