Aloha, my fellow skincare enthusiasts and aspiring solo estheticians! My name is Shawnlin, and I am the proud owner and solo esthetician of Alchemy Aesthetics HI. Nestled in the heart of Downtown Honolulu, my studio is where I bring skin alchemy to life. I’m thrilled to introduce this blog category dedicated entirely to estheticians. Whether you’re considering this rewarding career path or already navigating it, this space is for you! I love not only helping and teaching my clients the importance of skincare but also supporting other estheticians in this industry!
The Decision to Become an Esthetician
Becoming an esthetician was one of the most empowering choices I’ve made. The desire to have full creative control over my services and the ability to build deeper, more personal relationships with my clients drove me to take this leap. It wasn't an easy decision; it came with risks and uncertainties, but the rewards have been immeasurable.
I remember the day I decided to pursue this career. The idea had been simmering in my mind for a while. I wanted to create a space that reflected my vision of skincare—a place where every client feels valued and receives customized treatments tailored to their unique needs. With determination and a clear vision, I embarked on this incredible journey.
To give you an idea of my life before I was a full-time esthetician, here are some of my previous accomplishments and jobs: I was the first enlisted combat arms female in the Hawaii Army National Guard, I served in the Army for 6 years, and even deployed to Afghanistan, I was activated in the Army for the state of Hawaii's covid response (I worked closely with the epidemiologists for the department of health for two years), I worked at Hawaii's prisons for Hawaii Correctional Industries, I went to real estate school (that obviously didn't stick lol), I've been in and out of college (my highschool dream was to become an anthropologist, I later switched majors to computer science, then nursing, and now I'm back in school for a business degree), I worked at the Esthetics school I attended as an Esthetics Instructor for about a year, I did permanent makeup for one year but realized I loved skincare and sugaring more, I applied to/worked at a couple spas on the island, and now I am a full-time solo esthetician.
A Tip for Aspiring Estheticians
Essential Steps Before Starting
Before taking the plunge, ensure you have a solid plan. The esthetics field can be BRUTAL. The beauty industry, in general, can be BRUTAL. Don't expect to jump into the beauty industry and make a gazillion dollars. The truth is that a lot of spa jobs are MINIMUM wage (which is 'redonkulous', and as a wellness and largest organ specialist, you deserve more). A lot of spas misclassify you as 1099 employees and it will reflect when it's time to pay taxes. You think you're about to go to school to learn everything and then learn the bare minimum. Before I scare you away, or make you jump ship, DONT. This field is so rewarding and FUN. Keep up with my blogs to learn how not to get caught up in the mix!
Embarking on the journey of being an esthetician is both challenging and rewarding. It requires dedication, hard work, and a passion for skincare. I hope this blog post has provided some valuable insights and encouragement for those considering or already on this path.
Please Please Please, share your experiences, ask questions, and connect with fellow estheticians in the comments below! Stay tuned for more tips, stories, and advice in this dedicated blog category. Together, we can navigate this journey and thrive as estheticians.
Mahalo for joining me on this adventure and dont be afraid to reach out for help/advice!
XOXO, The Skin Alchemist ✨
Shawnlin Kinney | Licensed Esthetician
Owner & Solo Esthetician
Alchemy Aesthetics HI
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