My story began when I was adopted from Russia at the age of 4. Growing up, I embraced my beautiful olive complexion, which garnered admiration from those around me. People often exclaimed, “I wish I had skin like yours!” This response made me realize how deeply our skin tones resonate with others and the impact they can have on confidence. I found joy in helping others feel empowered in their own skin, understanding that beauty comes in many forms.
My journey into the beauty world started young, perfecting hair and makeup on friends. That passion led me to cosmetology school, where I discovered my true passion: waxing! As a licensed cosmetologist, I specialize in waxing services and love helping clients feel confident and smooth.
After spending over 15 years using tanning beds, I thought the risks wouldn’t affect me. I was drawn to the allure of a sun-kissed glow, but this beauty came at a significant cost. A few years later, I was diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma. Initially, it felt like a minor setback, but that all changed one morning when I discovered a reddish brown patch on my face that felt dry and rough. What I thought was another basal cell turned out to be the most dangerous skin cancer melanoma stemming from years of sun exposure. This wake up call compelled me to seek a healthier alternative. I invested in a spray tanning machine, realizing that I could maintain the bronzed look I loved while prioritizing my health. I transformed a guest bedroom into a tanning salon, enabling me to provide the sun-kissed glow without the harmful effects. Spray tanning allowed me to customize my desired look and control the level of tan, all while educating myself on the importance of skin health. My journey from tanning beds to spray tanning has taught me valuable lessons about making informed decisions for my well being and embracing healthier options.