Beth Bialko
38 | spa owner, skin therapist, instructor | married with one step-son | Chicago, IL
What information did you learn after you started working that you wish you had learned in school? I had an excellent undergraduate experience; however, I wish they would spend more time on skin histology and ingredient knowledge. A skin therapist needs to know the skin inside and out to feel confident in the treatment room. That’s why I feel post-graduate education is so important.
How do you come up with new treatments for your spa? New treatments can be created by simply adding an amazing new massage, professional mask,or hot stones. I get inspiration by working with products and the skin every day. The training I receive from my product suppliers also helps keep my treatment techniques fresh and result-oriented. My spa menu is simple and every facial is always newly customized based upon the client’s stress levels, health, lifestyle, and the environment. As a skin therapist, it’s my responsibility to adapt each and every treatment to the client’s skin type and conditions.
How often do you complete continuing education courses? Education is the foundation of my spa. The skin care industry is constantly changing and it’s imperative to keep up with the latest trends and treatments. I take monthly courses on product knowledge, treatment techniques, and business building. I also read a lot about skin care… anything I can get my hands on; it’s a weekly ritual! Learning new information and strengthening my knowledge of the industry makes me a better skin therapist and business owner.
What type of marketing gives your business the best exposure for the money?In this high-tech world, I believe my best investment is a website. It’s a 24/7 invaluable marketing tool that can highlight services and products and give clients a quick insight to the environment of the spa/salon. Busy consumers are looking for information online to make their spa decisions, so the website is ideal to capture that client even when the spa is closed.