Today we’d like to introduce you to Frankie Kortas.
Hi Frankie, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
In my teens and early 20s I struggled with acne and general skin inflammation due to my lack of knowledge about the interconnectedness between the skin and our internal health as well as skincare products in general. I struggled to find a solution to heal my skin through conventional medicine. I took the allopathic route and ended up going on topical antibiotics for acne, and also using very harsh skincare products. Ultimately this did not only leave my skin as inflamed as ever, but it unfortunately made it much more vulnerable and damaged.
Its through this experience I sought out healing my skin on my own using natural, gentle products and reducing my overall internal inflammation. I found the latter approach to healing my acne to be much more successful and decided to go back to school for esthetics and specialize in a holistic, natural approach to skin health.
Ever since then I have held a strong interest in using food as medicine. eastern healing modalities, and a passion for wellness and medicinal plants, This interest has taught me that everything is intrinsically interconnected- what we eat, our emotional/mental state, our environment, our lifestyle; this is why I approach skin health in a way that is much more than just products we put on top of our skin. Treating the skin with respect and a ‘do-no-harm’ approach gives space for us to listen to what it may be trying to communicate!
After graduating with a advanced esthetics license, and multiple alternative medicine courses I decided to to open my business- Solful Holistic Skincare. I recognized there was a gap in the central Florida market when it came to holistic facials, non-toxic products, and nervous system support. I was right about the market gap, I had many people coming to me for facials that told me they had been looking for what I was now offering for YEARS! I am so very grateful to say the success my business has seen over the last 4 years has come from servicing intelligent, heart centered women who approach beauty and wellness with an empowered attitude and who reject the idea that “beauty is pain”. They embrace the idea that self love and investing in self care practices improves their overall quality of life!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I did A TON of self-led research when perusing my education in holistic esthetics because it wasn’t as widely popular years ago. So there were lots of hours spent doing additional continuing education courses while I was completing my required hours from the state.
Additionally I was a first time business owner and knew nothing about opening or owing a business! Lots of trial and error, and still learning, but I saw it more as an amazing opportunity than a challenge.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Solful Holistic Skincare takes a gentle, plant-forward, and massage-centered, approach to organic facials, skin healing and wellness.
A facial at Solful Holistic Skincare is specially curated to each persons skin type, goals, and the current state being. I specialize in sculpting, tension-reducing facial massage, facial gua sha. lymphatic drainage, facial reflexology, light therapy, sound therapy, bespoke botanical masking, and much more.
All treatments are non- invasive, microbiome safe, customized, and are always geared toward maintaining the skins barrier function. I take inspiration in healing the skin from different aspects of holistic ancient healing systems such as Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurveda.
The luxurious & organic, farm to face, plant based, natural skin care products used during services and sold in retail, work with the intelligence of the skin/body, & support its natural functions. All of the skincare products I source, sell, and use during treatments are from herbalist founded and formulated, women-owned, small batch, biodynamic, low waste, sustainable, small businesses that honor nature. It is apart of my business ethos to foster healthy skin and a nourishing experience through creating a bridge between herbal wisdom and modern science. The modalities I provide are carefully crafted to support the skin’s harmony and resilience. Every detail of my business is thoughtfully curated and products are sustainably harvested, ensuring both the skin and the Earth thrive.
My approach to skin vibrancy is by promoting *flow* of blood and lymphatic fluid during services through manual massage techniques, Gua Sha, and reflexology. As they aid in nutrient delivery and maximum radiance without damage, synthetic chemicals, or toxins.
I prioritize a nervous system regulation first approach, because when the body is relaxed and at ease- the skin can heal and rebalance. It is my view that a holistic & natural approach to aging skin, acne, eczema, rosacea, dermatitis, and chronic inflammation- is not only the healthier option, but is also in the best interest of the skins health LONG TERM.
Solful Holistic Skincare is here to accommodate a healthy yet effective alternative to standard, aggressive, inherently depleting beauty services. I cater to every skin type- even the most sensitive. I prioritize quality, non-toxic skincare products, I offer a supportive alternative to botox, fillers, accutane, or other pharmaceuticals.
My philosopy is that skincare & facials don’t have to be damaging, painful, or uncomfortable to be affective. Working with the skin rather than against it. is honoring the synergy of our relationship with our skin, ourselves and our earth.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
The most important thing I’ve learned is to fully trust myself and my vision. I know that starting a business from scratch can be intimidating, scary, and there is so much unknown (hello imposter syndrome!). I was uneasy at first, not knowing if I would be successful. But trusting my intuition was the best thing I could have ever done. Investing in myself and getting out of my comfort zone as a person in order to help others is so rewarding because I now know that people find so much value in the services I offer and they are truly excited to some see me every month!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.solfulholisticskin.com
- Instagram: @solfulholisticskin
- Facebook: Solful Holistic Skincare
Image Credits
All of the images are my own
