Today we’d like to introduce you to Anahi Estrada
Hi Anahi, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I have always been passionate about all things beauty. Beauty serves as a way to enhance one’s sense of identity, self-worth, and confidence. In 2018, I started an eyelash extension business, Lush Lashes LA, as a way to express my creativity while making others feel more confident in themselves. I started this side business while I was attending college full-time, not knowing that this business would ultimately lead to a change in my career path. In 2022, I took a leap of faith and enrolled in an esthetician program to become a licensed beauty professional.
Upon entering esthetician school, I was only interested in learning how to become a better eyelash extension technician. However, a large portion of the curriculum taught in esthetics school were facial treatments and skincare knowledge. Students were required to practice facial treatments amongst each other in order to get a deeper understanding of facial protocols. As someone with sensitive, acne-prone skin, getting frequent facial treatments wasn’t ideal. My acne began to worsen, causing me to use many different skincare products in efforts to get rid of the breakouts. This was a recipe for disaster, causing my skin barrier to weaken. I developed painful, cystic acne that lasted for months.
This was a difficult time in my life not only physically, but mentally and emotionally. I isolated myself from friends and family because I was too embarrassed to be seen. I avoided graduations, birthday celebrations, and even stopped going to the gym. I desperately wanted to get rid of my acne, so I decided to see an esthetician who specializes in acne- Jessica Jones Skin Care. She not only got rid of my acne in under three months, but she was able to restore my confidence. Jessica empathized with me and taught me that I am more than my skin- the content of my character is what matters most. From that moment, I knew it was my mission to help others struggling with acne and share my story. This experience was a catalyst for what is now, Lush Beauty.
Lush Beauty is an esthetics business that empowers and uplifts others. I offer an array of esthetic treatments from eyelash extensions and lash lifts to relaxing facials and acne clearing treatments. Whether you are seeking a moment of self care or expert skincare guidance, Lush Beauty is your trusted destination.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The main obstacle I have been facing is the lack of brand recognition. At the start of my business endeavor, I was home-based in South Los Angeles. After becoming licensed, I was sought out by a beauty salon in West Hollywood. Following the interview, I joined their team in October 2022. After a year of working at the salon and running Lush Beauty from home, I decided it was time to move on to the next phase in my career. I partnered with Asal Rahmonova, friend and former esthetician schoolmate, to run our own beauty studio in Beverly Hills. While this has been an amazing milestone in my esthetics journey, it has been a challenge to target an audience in a new city, far from its original location. Regardless, I am grateful for my partner, Asal. She encourages me and keeps me motivated along the way.
Raising capital for Lush Beauty has been another challenge. I am completely bootstrapping this business, meaning I invest my own money into the business. Just a few months ago, I worked two jobs while running Lush Beauty in order to get by financially. Managing my time was challenging, but I focused on the bigger picture.
Being an entrepreneur is not always easy. There are moments when anxiety and self-doubt take over. However, suppressing negative thoughts is crucial as an entrepreneur. While it would be easier to give up, I remind myself why I started this business in the first place- to inspire, educate, and instill confidence in others. Ultimately, I put my faith in God and allow him to work through me.
As you know, we’re big fans of Lush Beauty . For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Lush Beauty offers a variety of esthetic treatments, utilizing the highest quality products and latest technologies available. I provide a safe, welcoming space where every client can feel comfortable and confident. The most frequently booked services are eyelash extensions and lash lift treatments. This is due to an increase in demand influenced by social media and the desire for low-maintenance beauty. I also offer various facial treatments, such as a signature facial, an acne clearing facial, a custom facial, and a microchanneling treatment.
When running a service-based business, it is important to develop a relationship with each and every client. It not only makes the experience more personable, but allows the client to develop trust within you as their service provider. I take pride in the positive impacts I can make on my clients’ self-esteem through my knowledge and expertise.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
Owning a business has its highs and lows. Some days feel rewarding, while others are filled with uncertainty. Nonetheless, I’ve learned to be more resilient. Cultivating an optimistic mindset is essential to being resilient because it can help you reframe challenges and keep you motivated. I focus more on what I can control and view every experience as an opportunity to grow.
Pricing:
- Classic Full Set: $150
- Hybrid Full Set: $175
- Lash Lift: $100
- Acne Clearing Facial: $150
- Procell Microchanneling: $350
Contact Info:
- Website: https://lushbeautyla.as.me
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lushbeautyla/profilecard/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61563679706361&mibextid=LQQJ4d
- LinkedIn: https://linktr.ee/lushbeautyla?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=f2f4b537-ed6e-4ed6-babb-db278cd139b9
