Community Highlights: Meet Ulyana Hanov of Sugaring Essential LLC

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ulyana Hanov.

Hi Ulyana, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
From Student to Studio Owner: How Ulyana Turned a Personal Struggle into a Thriving Beauty Business

Hi, my name is Ulyana, and I’m a licensed esthetician specializing in sugaring and waxing hair removal. With over eight years of hands-on experience, my journey into beauty wasn’t something I planned—but it turned out to be one of the best decisions of my life.

It all started in 2017, back in my home country. At the time, I was studying Management and Economics at university, juggling classes and exams—while also dealing with a very real, very relatable issue: unwanted hair. Like many women, I was frustrated with the constant maintenance and irritation, and I simply wanted a better solution. So I took a leap and enrolled in a sugaring and waxing course—not to start a career, but to find a personal solution.

That one decision changed everything.

I began practicing on myself, then on friends and family. The feedback was immediate and unexpected: “You have such a light hand,” they’d say. “You’re really good at this.” That encouragement lit a spark in me. By the time I graduated with my bachelor’s degree, I had already fallen in love with the beauty industry. I realized I wanted to help others feel confident and cared for, the way I had learned to care for myself.

Eventually, I moved to the United States—and although it was a new country and a new beginning, I brought with me something very valuable: purpose. I enrolled in college again, earned my esthetics license in California, and soon after, I opened my very first studio in San Jose.

It was a small space with a big dream behind it. Sugaring wasn’t well known in the area at the time, so I introduced clients to this gentle and effective method. Word spread quickly. My studio began to thrive. I grew a loyal client base, expanded my services, and even hired a small team. I wasn’t just building a business—I was building a brand rooted in care, trust, and empowerment.

And then, life surprised me again.

I met the love of my life, and together we decided to move to Los Angeles. Starting over was terrifying. I had worked so hard to build my name in San Jose, and now I was back at square one in Redondo Beach. But I had something with me this time that I didn’t have in the beginning: confidence.

Today, my second studio is growing fast. Each day I meet new clients—strong, beautiful women choosing self-care, confidence, and love for their bodies. I’m honored to be part of that journey with them. For me, beauty isn’t just about smooth skin—it’s about how we feel in our own skin.

This is more than a job. It’s my passion, my calling, and a reminder that every new beginning can turn into something beautiful—if you dare to start.

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?
The first big one came when I moved to the United States. Even though I already had a degree and certifications in esthetics from my home country, I quickly learned that none of it counted here. I had to start over—go back to school, complete 600 hours of training, and pass the California Esthetician Licensing exam. It felt like taking a huge step back just to move forward, but I was determined.

Then came the second major challenge: the pandemic. I had just opened my first studio when COVID hit. Everything shut down almost overnight. Just as things started picking up again, the city shut us down for a second time. Clients were scared to leave their homes, and I still had rent and bills to pay.
Another big challenge was hiring a team. For so long, I had worked independently. Letting go and learning to trust someone else with the business I had built was incredibly difficult. Finding the right people who shared my values and level of care took time, patience, and a lot of learning.

But the biggest challenge of all? Starting over from scratch—again. I had worked so hard to build a reputation and loyal client base in San Jose, and then I had to leave it all behind when I moved to Los Angeles. In Redondo Beach, no one knew who I was. I had to reintroduce myself, rebuild trust, and grow a new community from the ground up.

Each of these challenges taught me something valuable. They pushed me to grow not just as a business owner, but as a person. Looking back, I’m proud of how far I’ve come—and even more excited for what’s ahead.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Sugaring Essential LLC?
Fun Fact & Brand Story
One fun fact about my business is that the brand name Sugreen Essential was actually created back when I was still living in Belarus. I brought this name with me to the United States, and I’m proud to continue using it today. It’s a name that carries both personal meaning and a connection to my roots.

Specialization
My business specializes in sugaring hair removal—a gentle, organic method that’s kinder to the skin and significantly less painful than waxing. It doesn’t cause irritation and removes even the finest hairs, leaving the skin smooth for weeks after the treatment.

What Sets Me Apart
What truly sets me apart is my light touch and personalized approach. I don’t focus on the number of clients I can fit in a day—I focus on the quality of care I give to each one. I understand how important it is for every woman to feel valued, and that’s why no two appointments are ever the same. Each session is tailored to the individual, and I make sure every client leaves feeling confident and cared for.

What I’m Proud Of
I’m incredibly proud that Sugreen Essential stands out in a world of chain salons. I put my heart into every service I offer, and I’m committed to making each appointment a comfortable and positive experience. I take pride not only in the visible results, but in the high-quality products I use, and the trust I build with every client.

Message to Readers
I want readers to know that there’s a safe, welcoming space where they can come with any beauty concern—and I’ll be here to help. I offer emotional support along with top-tier service, using only natural and high-quality products.

At Sugreen Essential, we provide full-body hair removal using organic sugaring techniques, as well as treatments for ingrown hairs and skin pigmentation. My goal is to help every client feel beautiful, empowered, and truly seen.

We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
One of my earliest—and funniest—memories related to beauty happened when I was about 13 or 14. My older sister and I decided we were brave enough to try waxing at home. We each applied a wax strip to our legs, full of confidence… until we realized we couldn’t pull them off. I looked at mine and thought, This is it. This wax strip is never coming off. It’s part of me now. I turned to my sister, and she was frozen just like me. We were both stuck—literally.

There was no way we could do it ourselves, so we ended up helping each other through it. It was a painful, hilarious mess—but it also brought us closer. Looking back, I can’t help but smile, especially now that I’ve made a career out of helping others avoid those exact DIY disasters.

Pricing:

• Brazilian 69
• Full legs 120
• Underarms 30

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Sugessential.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sugaring.essential