Meet Rachel Russell | Medical Esthetician, Industry Recruiter and Career Placement

We had the good fortune of connecting with Rachel Russell and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Rachel, is there something you can share with us that those outside of the industry might not be aware of?
When individuals, especially young girls, peer into the life of an Esthetician or Medical Esthetician, they see beauty , glam, and essentially dollar signs! They are quickly inspired and passionate about beginning their career in esthetics, ultimately desiring business ownership and being their own boss! With the influence of social media, the industry has become glamorized and an influx of esthetician students have begun to enroll by the hundreds into their local or states cosmetology program. The truth behind the scenes in our industry, is that the journey can be arduous. Typically esthetician programs can range from 8 to 12 months learning the general, basic practices and sciences with the goal to pass the states licensing test. Once passed, its now time to gain real time experiences. Most of the establishments who have current job openings require at least two years experience in the field. However, how are you supposed to gain 2 years experience when no one will hire you? This leads to newly graduates estheticians working for a corporate chain, cattle driving clients in and out the door, not making a livable wage, and experience burnout. Another option when not meeting job opportunity requirements, individuals decide to start their own small business. This has lead to a surge of estheticians opening up suites on almost every corner. Outsiders are probably unaware that this is truly where the hard work begins. Gaining a clientele and following by separating yourself from others. Encountering different skin types, conditions and personalities. Filtering through the markets products and modalities that are legitimate and not just marketing hype. Practicing ethically and honestly not to just make a buck, building trust with potential clients. Knowing how to professionally handle an allergic reaction or accidental burn on a client, because unfortunately it WILL happen. The truth of the matter in this field, is that you have to be ready to continuously learn, find mentorship, create healthy relationships and lifestyle, fail, pick yourself back up, and keep going. If one is not ready to learn extreme patience, long term commitment to the tough road to success, than one should not get distracted and romanticize the esthetics path.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My name is Rachel Russell. I am a clinical skincare therapist who believes in healthy, proper skin care. I became part of Skin Care By Gabriela’s team as an esthetician in 2007. My passion for esthetics began as a teenager, when I suffered from severe acne and scarring. I have spent the last 17 years furthering my knowledge and experience in medical esthetics with internships under plastic surgeons, dermatologists and working alongside well-established medical estheticians. I’ve learned and practiced the most up to date treatments and protocols on how to create change in the skin non aggressively. I feel fortunate to be a part of an industry that I connect with on a personal level and am able to make impacts in the lives of those I serve through dramatic skin transformation. I am knowledgeable, passionate, and I will quickly learn skins strengths and sensitivities and offer my individual expertise when performing services.

Since 2020, I jump started my Esthetician Coaching business. I am extremely passionate and excited for new esthetician’s to begin their career. I have sought out continuing education out of 4 separate states in order to gain experience working in a traditional spa and medical spa setting. There is so much you can do with your license, but the industry’s can be a bit overwhelming. I help newer esthys hone in on their specialty, passions, and guide them how to gain experience in that specialty, leading to excellent career placement.

I would love to meet with you virtually, to get to know you, act as a mentor, and assist you any way possible to begin your journey. We can discuss your concerns, questions, and goals for the future. I can teach you the tips and tools needed to set yourself up for success in the esthetics industry, and make a plan for your dreams. This is ideal for esthetician students, new graduates, and those looking to make their next move in the beauty business. Before our meeting, I will send you a questionnaire to better understand your needs and optimize our time together.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
One of the first priorities is self care! I would make an appointment facial appointments for us at Skincare by Gabriela. The other things I love about Atlanta is the food and music. The Optimist has always been a must try restaurant, especially for seafood lovers. And everyone knows that any current, good music comes through Atlanta. From the historical Tabernacle to the newer Roxy, a concert is a must do when a friend comes into town.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to recognize Natasha Grigorian. The owner of Skincare by Gabriela, two locations, in East Cobb, Marietta. She has been the most influential female in my career. She is honest, extremely intelligent, fair, and just one of the most quality individuals you could ever meet. Natasha has mastered spa industry business ownership. She is always assessing the latest and greatest products and treatments in the market. You can always know that meeting her or receiving a service from her will truly blow you away. I owe a lot of my knowledge, experience, and career opportunities to her.

Website: www.skincarebygabriela.com

Instagram: @rachelrussellskinscience @skincarebygabriela

Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/rachel-russell-a56626a7