We’re all online shoppers, but what’s missing?

​Online shopping is growing at lightning speed!  In a society where we are all over tasked, stressed, and inundated with internet shopping options…it only makes sense.  Will retailing giants like Amazon take over the world someday, sure feels like it.  We all need “stuff”, smart phones and technology advancements sure make it easier.  It’s also convenient to find what you are looking for online and with the click of a button, your purchase shows up in a matter of days or less.  I’m certainly a fan of convenience and have what seems to be endless amounts of boxes piled up at my front door frequently.  You can even shop for groceries online for goodness sakes!  How about professional skincare products?  What’s missing?
 
Small businesses like mine are challenged now more than ever to keep their doors open, as retail sales are a large part of their growth.   Yes, these sales keep my holistic skincare studio going, but there is a bigger picture.  As an esthetician, I provide the best professional products to support client’s skincare goals.  Bottom line…skin treatments alone don’t deliver results without proper homecare.  Have you ever taken a few minutes to realize the amount of knowledge and personal touch your esthetician gives you?  A good esthetician genuinely cares and wants to work with you to achieve whatever it is that will make you happy.  After many years of working for physicians, I stepped out on my own to offer a unique experience with client support not always possible before.   What has changed?  I know I speak for fellow estheticians who have their own businesses… saying, “our job isn’t simply 9-5.”  My mind races 24/7 about countless things; what is the next monthly special?  What products can I find that support a holistic lifestyle?  What class will I take next to stay current and offer more to my clients?  
 
Small business owners in the esthetics industry don’t stop and we do everything for our clients, even if it means answering texts or emails before the sun comes up!  The growing amount of online retail sales is creating big challenges, which we as skincare professionals, are all trying to overcome.  Numerous times I have spent over an hour with a new client, who either purchases retail once and never again, or takes my advice and decides to support a large supplier online.  Everyone is looking to save a buck. I get it!  The question is, will that online retailer give you the service and ongoing support you deserve?
 
As a seasoned esthetician and business owner, I take pride in knowing the products I carry inside and out.  The horror stories of fake, expired products are rampant in “esthetician only” social media groups.  Rashes, blisters, and the like are reactions commonly discussed.  This just isn’t okay. It’s disheartening when I see a client in public and they rave about how much they love the products I gave them….several months ago.  I am keenly aware of how long products will last, if clients are genuinely following a proper skincare routine.  I recently took on the financial challenge of private labeling my favorite skincare line to ensure my clients are well taken care of.  I know if they are using products from my skincare studio, they are getting safe, reliable goods, which come from a credible source.  What’s the next step?  The products I carry are very active and results-oriented, so gradual progression is important, therefore, it’s not good practice to recommend everything at once.  Without support from a qualified and knowledgeable esthetician, things can go horribly wrong or results aren’t achieved.  At Skintuition Holistic Skincare Studio, I reward clients who have monthly skin treatments with a VIP program.  One of the perks of being a Skintuition VIP is a discount on retail skincare products.  Nothing makes me happier than offering this reward, because it represents a true relationship I have with clients.  For client convenience, Skintuition offers an online store and only ships USPS Priority to ensure fast delivery.  I can tell you every online sale is packaged with love and sincere appreciation.
 
Yes, there are roadblocks to keeping up with the growing number of online retailers who offer skincare products at a discount.  But, there is something to be said for supporting small, local businesses in your community.  If your esthetician is a small business owner, take a few minutes to think about the value they offer you as opposed to saving a few dollars.  They may even have a special VIP program or online store to support your commitment to healthy, radiant skin.
 
Skintuition Holistic Skincare Studio is located at 9720 Capital Court, Suite 301A in Manassas, Virginia.  Visit Skintuition online at www.radiantskinfromwithin.com to learn more about holistic skincare and schedule an appointment with Tracy Childs, Licensed Master Esthetician.

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