Today we’d like to introduce you to Stephanie Rodriguez.
Stephanie, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Hi, I’m Stephanie Rodriguez, owner, and operator of JUST SKIN. On social media you may know me as JUST SKIN by Stephanie. I’ve been a licensed aesthetician for 17 years, and while aesthetics wasn’t the career path I initially set out to pursue, it has become a true passion and calling. In my early 20s, I dreamt of a career in culinary arts. I was passionate about creativity, hands-on work, and bringing joy to others through my craft. That path didn’t unfold the way I had imagined, and that dream eventually fell short. What I didn’t realize at the time was God was gently redirecting me towards something even more aligned with my purpose. While I didn’t end up in the culinary world, I found a new passion in aesthetics, a different kind of artistry that still allows me to work with my hands, connect with people, and make a true impact on their lives..
In my late 30s, I was a single mom of four working as a cocktail waitress. I was grateful for the job but knew deep down that it wasn’t where I was meant to stay. I wanted more for myself and my family, so I made the decision to pursue a career that offered both stability and purpose. That’s where I began to explore the world of aesthetics, not knowing that it would one day become my passion and lifelong career.
My first job in aesthetics was working at Ulta. I was an aesthetician at Ulta for about six months when I was fortunate to come upon another job opportunity, this time in the field of medical spas. At American Laser, I gained valuable experience in advanced treatments, such as laser hair removal, skin resurfacing, skin tightening, and cellulite reduction therapy. Working at American Laser expanded my skill set and deepened my understanding of cutting edge aesthetic technology, which greatly influenced the services I offer today. This job opportunity was a turning point in my career, as it was then that I first discovered and began cultivating my passion for aesthetics. Immersing myself in this field has allowed me to connect deeply with the art and science of enhancing natural beauty, and I quickly realized how fulfilling it is to help others feel confident and empowered. My opportunities at American Laser sparked a genuine interest that has since grown into a dedicated career path for me. I’ve also had the privilege of working at other great companies along the way, each of which has contributed to my growth and shaped my professional journey. These experiences have broadened my skills, deepened my understanding of the industry, and reinforced my passion for delivering exceptional care and results.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
This industry comes with its own unique set of challenges. It’s not about just promoting services, but it’s also about building trust, showing results, and connecting with clients on a personal level. Marketing is not an easy task, but my experience working at the Benefit Brow Bar truly taught me how to market myself effectively. When I didn’t have a client in my chair, I learned the importance of proactively searching for clients, building relationships, and finding clients through persistence and creativity. This experience gave me valuable skills and self-promotion as well as client acquisition that has been essential in my success.
We’ve been impressed with JUST SKIN, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
After gaining valuable experience in the industry and continuing to build on my education, I made the decision to take the next steps in my career by opening my own business in April 2016. It was a natural progression that allowed me to bring my vision to life, offering personalize care and creating a space where clients can feel confident, comfortable, and cared for. Over the years, I have grown more confident and comfortable in my profession, and found myself naturally gravitating towards corrective aesthetics. I am passionate about helping my clients address specific skin concerns and seeing transformative results that come from targeted treatments. The services I offer include microdermabrasion, chemical peels, customized facials, dermaplaning, nanoneedling, and more. Each service is tailored to support healthy, radiant skin, and long-term results.
The business was thriving until the unexpected challenges of COVID-19 hit in 2020. Like many small business owners, I faced a difficult period of uncertainty and change. However, it also became a time of reflection, adaptation, and resilience, reminding me just how passionate I am about my work, and the importance of showing up for my clients and my craft. After the mandatory shut down, I found myself helpless, unsure of how to contribute during such a difficult time. One day, I saw a Dove commercial highlighting the tolls the pandemic was taking on healthcare workers, especially on their skin from constant mask wearing during long shifts. That moment sparked something in me. I realize I had the skills to help in my own way. I began to offer free skin care support to healthcare professionals, providing treatments and advice to help soothe and repair their skin. It was incredibly rewarding to give back to those who were giving so much.
How do you think about luck?
I am a genuine person who truly cares about helping my clients feel confident in their own skin. My goal has always been to offer the best treatments possible—customized, effective, and rooted in care at an affordable price. Through this approach, I’ve been able to authentically brand myself, building a loyal clientele based by staying true to who I am and the values that guide my work. I’ve also faced my own skin care battles, particularly with rosacea, so I truly understand the frustration and emotional toll that skin concerns can take. This personal experience allows me to genuinely empathize with my clients and approach each treatment with compassion, care, and a deeper understanding of what they’re going through. It’s not just about treating the skin; it’s about supporting the person behind it.
Today, I am proud to also serve as an instructor at a beauty school, OgleSchool, where I have the opportunity to mentor and inspire the next generation of professionals. What makes this journey even more special is that all three of my daughters have followed me into the industry. I share a second business, Salon.Twentyfour, established in January 2021 with my eldest daughter, Nicolette, who has been in the industry for almost 12 years. She is a talented cosmetologist and make up artist. My middle daughter, Danielle, is a dedicated aesthetician who specializes in waxing, and my youngest, Gabrielle, is a skilled nail technician. Watching them thrive in their own passions has been one of the greatest rewards of my career. I also have an amazing son, Erik, and while I’ve tried to inspire him to follow in the industry through barbering, that path hasn’t quite taken off yet, but I am supportive of whatever journey he chooses.
I feel so blessed to have had an incredible support system of people who believed in me enough to invest in my future when I first started my business. Their encouragement gave me the strength to pursue my passion, even when the journey felt uncertain.
By God’s grace, I’m still here nearly 10 years later, doing what I love and continuing to grow.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Justskinbystephanie.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justskinbystephanie?igsh=MWowdXZ1Z3FxZnFoMw==
- Facebook: https://Facebook.com/JustSkinbyStephanie
- Other: @ justskinbystephanie on Tik Tok
