Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in skincare but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jody Leon, Owner and Founder of DERMASPACE Inc., located in Seattle, WA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I own DERMASPACE, which specializes in the Iderm Facial Treatment, also known as “The Skin Gym”! The Iderm Treatment is not exactly your typical “spa facial.” It’s a more clinical approach to skincare for serious clients who are looking to take their regimen to the next level. The treatment is all about subtraction, removing impurities, extracting blemish-causing bacteria, and then infusing the skin with nutrient-rich, water-soluble solutions of vitamins and minerals that clean, heal, and maintain the health of your skin.
We accomplish this using a patented electrotherapy process that helps with the appearance of acne, reduces inflammation, promotes a more even complexion and smoother texture, improves blood circulation, and tightens facial muscles. DERMASPACE is the ONLY place you can receive the Iderm Treatment north of San Francisco! We also offer other facial treatments for those who are not a candidate for our electrotherapy process. Our clientele is of all ages, from teenagers to people who have retired, but typically it’s working professionals who want clear, radiant, and healthy skin without all the “spa-like” fuss. We are known for helping people with skin issues like acne and rosacea and promoting healthy aging.
Tell us about yourself
Born and raised in California, I have been a licensed professional in the skin and hair-care industry for nearly three decades and hold licensure in both California and Washington State. At the beginning of my career, I was trained and certified in the Iderm Treatment in West Hollywood at Face Place, one of Hollywood’s best skin care centers. Face Place clients included Cindy Crawford, Bette Midler, Brad Pitt, and Sophia Coppola, to name a few. After a few years at The Face Place, I moved on to build a successful private practice in Los Angeles.
Soon I decided it was time to trade L.A. sunny smog for Seattle’s rainy fog and moved to the Pacific Northwest, where in 2009, I made the Iderm Treatment available to the general public and opened DERMASPACE. My mission has always been to help others. I founded DERMASPACE on the Buddhist principles of Mettā or Maitrī, which means cultivating unconditional loving-kindness, friendliness, amity, goodwill, and active interest in oneself. I understand how hard it can be to deal with skin issues that can affect one’s own self-esteem and well-being, and I believe that self-care and unconditional kindness to oneself is an essential first step in cultivating compassion for others. That is why it became my official mission statement.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Helping others and providing a great place for others to expand their wings and have solid careers. I have 7 employees now and counting, and it makes me happy that they are happy and satisfied in their career paths. I also love that we have treated so many people with skin issues and have changed their lives.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Work-life balance for sure and surviving the pandemic. We were closed for 7 months, and it was so scary, but it also allowed me to re-evaluate things and make changes. Prior to the pandemic, I would sometimes do 10 clients a day and be stretched too thin. Owning a business and also being an esthetician needs to be taken into account - you are doing multiple jobs. So I learned to figure that out after many, many years.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Save money for taxes and either have a great bookkeeper/tax accountant or learn it yourself. I know it seems boring, but it was something I didn’t think about in the beginning, so it’s good to have a plan. Make sure to save money for yourself for retirement (and for unforeseen things like pandemics) and develop a work/life balance for yourself. You are no good to anyone, your clients, employees, or loved ones if you are burnt out. Take care of your mind and body too!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://dermaspace.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dermaspace/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dermaspace/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/dermaspace
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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