Today we’d like to introduce you to Monique Tep
MoniQue, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
“My journey in the wellness industry began at 15 in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, sparking a transformative path that would redefine my understanding of beauty and self-worth. On my first day at beauty school, I faced a harsh reality when my teacher directed me to practice on homeless individuals, citing my brown skin as unworthy. This moment, though painful, became a catalyst for my future mission.
Those early experiences with the homeless community were unexpectedly profound. Their kindness and humanity, despite their circumstances, taught me that true beauty transcends appearance. Their generosity in allowing me to practice became a powerful lesson in dignity and the value of every individual, regardless of their social status or skin color.
As I entered the modeling world with a Cambodian company, I initially succumbed to societal pressures, believing that lighter skin was the key to acceptance. The dangerous pursuit of skin bleaching led me to a health scare that became my wake-up call. This pivotal moment forced me to confront the harmful standards I had internalized and sparked a passion for promoting natural beauty and skin health.
At 21, I made the bold decision to move to Los Angeles, a melting pot of cultures and self-expression. The vibrant energy of the city and its diverse population opened my eyes to a world where uniqueness is celebrated. Inspired by those who confidently embraced their natural selves, I found my true calling in skincare.
Enrolling in the esthetician program at Santa Monica College was more than just career training; it was a journey of self-discovery and purpose. Each day in class reinforced my commitment to helping others feel beautiful in their own skin. I threw myself into learning, not just about skincare techniques, but about the science of skin health and the psychology of self-esteem.
Today, as a professional esthetician, I bring a unique blend of experiences to my practice. My Cambodian heritage, the inclusivity I found in Los Angeles, and my professional training all inform my approach. But it’s my personal journey of self-acceptance that truly sets my work apart. I see each client not just as a customer, but as a person with their own story and path to self-love.
My mission extends beyond skincare. I’m dedicated to helping others recognize and celebrate their inherent beauty. Through my work, I strive to challenge narrow beauty standards and promote a more inclusive definition of attractiveness. Every treatment is an opportunity to boost not just skin health, but also self-confidence and self-love.
The challenges I’ve faced have become my greatest strengths. They’ve taught me resilience, empathy, and the power of self-acceptance. I’m living proof that our perceived flaws can become our most beautiful features when we learn to embrace them.
To anyone struggling with self-image or societal pressures, I say this: Your uniqueness is your superpower. Embrace your natural beauty, nourish your skin and your soul, and remember that true beauty radiates from within. Let’s celebrate the rich tapestry of human diversity and redefine beauty standards together, one empowered individual at a time.”
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My biggest hurdle was overcoming cultural and societal expectations. As a Cambodian immigrant, pursuing a career in esthetics wasn’t the traditional path my family envisioned. I had to fight to follow my passion, often feeling like I was disappointing those closest to me.
Financial struggles were a constant companion, especially when I first moved to Los Angeles. Balancing work to support myself while studying was exhausting, but it taught me resilience and the value of hard work.
Language barriers initially made it difficult to connect with clients and fully express my knowledge. However, this challenge pushed me to become a better communicator, learning to convey care and expertise beyond words.
Perhaps the most personal struggle was battling my own insecurities. Growing up with beauty standards that didn’t reflect me, I had to learn to love my own skin before I could truly help others do the same.
These obstacles, while difficult, have been invaluable. They’ve fueled my determination, deepened my empathy, and strengthened my commitment to helping others feel confident in their skin. Every struggle has been a stepping stone, leading me to where I am today – passionate, resilient, and eager to make a difference in my clients’ lives.
The road hasn’t been easy, but it’s been profoundly rewarding. These challenges haven’t just made me a better esthetician; they’ve made me a stronger, more compassionate person.
As you know, we’re big fans of Lady M Spa . For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
At the heart of my spa is a deep commitment to personalized, holistic skincare. I don’t just treat skin concerns – I partner with each client to uncover the unique story their skin has to tell. Whether they’re seeking to address long-standing issues or simply enhance their natural glow, I approach every treatment with empathy, expertise, and a passion for empowering self-love.
What sets my practice apart is the fusion of my Cambodian heritage, the inclusivity I discovered in Los Angeles, and the specialized training I received at Santa Monica College. This blend of cultural warmth, progressive ideals, and technical excellence allows me to provide a truly transformative experience for my clients.
I’m most proud of the safe, judgment-free space I’ve cultivated, where individuals from all walks of life can feel seen, heard, and celebrated. My clients aren’t just customers – they’re my inspiration, my teachers, and the driving force behind my constant pursuit of growth and innovation.
How do you think about happiness?
Happiness, for me, is found in the transformative power of helping others feel confident and beautiful in their own skin. There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing someone look in the mirror and truly love what they see.
Why does this make me happy? Because I believe that true beauty comes from self-acceptance and confidence. Watching my clients embrace their unique features and overcome self-doubt fills me with joy and purpose. It’s more than just skincare; it’s about empowering people to feel their best, inside and out.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ladymspa.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ladymspa
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ladymspa
