Authority Magazine: Alexis Pfropper Of ästhetik skincare On 5 Things You Need To Create a Successful Clean Beauty Brand

High-Quality Ingredients: I knew that if I did the hard work and cut out all the middlemen, I could bring high-quality ingredients to my clients without the high price point usually seen with that level of skincare. I forged relationships with suppliers who shared my commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing practices. By incorporating these high-quality ingredients into the formulations, I delivered unparalleled results while staying true to its clean beauty ethos.

The clean beauty movement is transforming the beauty industry by emphasizing the importance of safe, non-toxic ingredients. Consumers are increasingly concerned about what they put on their skin, leading to a demand for transparency and high standards in beauty products. As a part of this series, I had the distinct pleasure of interviewing Alexis Pfropper.

Alexis Pfropper is a licensed esthetician and skilled permanent makeup artist based in Punta Gorda, Fla. After completing her formal training with the Beauty and Health Institute in 2019, she embarked on a mission to redefine the spa experience, launching ästhetik spa and clean skincare line ästhetik skincare. With an extensive background in reflexology, as well as skincare and cosmetology, her spa offers a range of personalized treatments designed to uplift and inspire.

Thank you so much for joining us! Before we dive in, our readers would love to “get to know you” a bit better. Can you tell us a bit about your “backstory”?

Iam a licensed esthetician and a skilled permanent makeup artist based in Punta Gorda, Florida. My journey into the world of skincare and beauty began with a passion during my formative years when I recognized the impact of skincare on one’s confidence and well-being. My dedication to mastering the art of skincare led me to pursue formal training at the Beauty and Health Institute in 2019. Equipped with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills, I embarked on a mission to redefine the spa experience, culminating in establishing ästhetik spa.

Can you share with us the most interesting story from your career? Can you tell us what lessons or ‘takeaways’ you learned from that?

Many clients frequently inquired about skincare products during consultations, expressing frustration with the available options. This frustration led me to develop my own skincare line. I often encountered one or two products that met my standards, only to discover others with questionable ingredients and practices within the same product line. Confronted with this inconsistency, I could not sincerely endorse such products to my clients. That began my journey to bring my line to these clients.

Continuously seeking to enhance my expertise, I actively engage in ongoing education, attending advanced courses and staying abreast of the latest advancements in skincare, spa therapies, and the science of pure skin™. My journey is a testament to my dedication to elevating the standard of skincare and empowering individuals to embrace their natural beauty with confidence and assurance.

One of the most memorable moments in my career happened during the first week of launching ästhetik spa in March 2020, right as the Covid-19 pandemic was beginning. I was all excited to make my dream of owning a spa a reality, only to find myself opening and shutting down within the same week. It was a gut punch, no doubt about it. But I wasn’t about to throw in the towel. Instead of wallowing in despair, I decided to get creative. I started hosting skincare education sessions on Zoom, grew my online presence, and went full throttle on developing my skincare line. In the midst of this rollercoaster ride, I got to know my landlords, Megan and Anthony. These two are real gems — salt-of-the-earth kind of folks who understood hard work and had my back from day one. Now here’s where things get interesting. For the first month of renting my space, they traded my rent for gift cards they handed out to their friends and clients. Those gift cards? They turned out to be what kickstarted my client base once I was finally able to open. And from there, it was all about building momentum through good old-fashioned word of mouth. Before I knew it, my business was booming, thanks to the support of my community and the power of referrals. Things got so busy that I had to bring my mom on board to help. Talk about a full-circle moment! Through it all, I learned that resilience, adaptability, and teamwork are the real MVPs when it comes to turning setbacks into success stories.

Which three character traits do you think were most instrumental to your success? Can you please share a story or example for each?

Passion- From a young age, I was fascinated by the science of skincare and the art of beauty. This passion drove me to study and experiment relentlessly, even during my free time. For instance, when I first started my spa, I would spend countless hours researching and formulations. This dedication to my passion helped me create a skincare line that I truly believe in and that my clients love.

Innovation- Staying ahead in the skincare industry requires constant innovation. I always look for new ways to improve my products and services, whether through new ingredients, advanced formulations, or sustainable practices. For example, I recently introduced a line of eco-friendly packaging made from recyclable materials, which was well-received by my environmentally-conscious clients. This commitment to innovation ensures that my brand remains relevant and competitive in a rapidly evolving market.

Empathy- Understanding and connecting with my clients personally has been crucial to my success. I strive to listen to their needs and concerns, which has helped me develop products that cater to their skin types and issues. One memorable example was a client with severe skin sensitivities who couldn’t find suitable products. I worked closely with her to create a routine that addressed her sensitivities and improved her skin’s health. Her gratitude and the transformation in her confidence reminded me of empathy’s profound impact on business.

These traits have been the cornerstone of my success, guiding me through challenges and helping me build a brand that resonates with my clients.

Are you working on any exciting new projects now? How do you think that might help people?

Yes, I am thrilled to share that we have just finished expanding the tones for our organic, vegan, reef-safe tinted SPF50 sunscreen to include a more inclusive range. This project has been a labor of love, driven by our commitment to ensure everyone can find a perfect match for their skin tone.

By expanding our range, we address a crucial need for diversity in skincare products. Many people, especially those with darker skin tones, often struggle to find sunscreens that blend seamlessly with their complexion. Our new inclusive range ensures that everyone, regardless of skin tone, can enjoy the benefits of high-quality sun protection without compromising on a natural, flawless look.

This expansion helps people in several ways. By offering a wider range of tones, more individuals will be encouraged to use sunscreen regularly, protecting their skin from harmful UV rays and reducing the risk of sunburn and skin cancer.

A well-matched tinted sunscreen can enhance one’s natural beauty, providing a smooth and even complexion. This can significantly boost self-confidence and encourage a positive self-image.

This project underscores our commitment to inclusivity and ensures that our product line reflects the diverse beauty of our customers. It sends a powerful message that everyone deserves high-quality skincare tailored to their unique needs.

I’m incredibly excited about this project and confident that it will make a meaningful difference in our clients’ lives, promoting skin health and inclusivity.

What inspired your brand to focus on clean beauty, and how do you define ‘clean’ in the context of your products?

The inspiration to focus on clean beauty stemmed from a deep desire to create products that are not only effective but also safe and beneficial for both people and the planet. Over the years, I became increasingly aware of the harmful chemicals and synthetic ingredients in many skincare products. I wanted to offer a healthier alternative that aligns with my values of wellness and sustainability.

In the context of our products, we define ‘clean’ by adhering to certain principles.

We prioritize natural and organic ingredients, ensuring that our products are free from harmful chemicals, parabens, sulfates, and synthetic fragrances. Each ingredient is carefully selected for its purity, safety, and efficacy.

Our products are formulated without any known toxins or controversial ingredients that could potentially harm the skin or overall health. We follow strict guidelines and continuously review emerging research to ensure our formulations are safe and gentle.

Clean beauty extends beyond just the ingredients. We are committed to sustainable practices in every aspect of our business, from sourcing eco-friendly packaging materials to reducing our carbon footprint. Our goal is to create products that are kind to both the skin and the environment.

We never test on animals, and all our products are plant-based. We believe in compassionate beauty that respects all living beings.

What truly inspired this focus was the feedback from clients who were seeking healthier, more transparent skincare options. I realized that there was a significant demand for products that people could trust, knowing they were made with integrity and care. By embracing clean beauty, we are not only catering to this demand but also fostering a greater sense of well-being and environmental responsibility.

Clean beauty for us is about more than just skincare; it’s a holistic approach to health, wellness, and sustainability. It’s about creating products that contribute positively to our lives and the world around us.

How do you ensure the ingredients in your products meet clean beauty standards, and what criteria do you use to select them?

Ensuring our ingredients meet clean beauty standards is a rigorous and meticulous process. We are committed to transparency, safety, and efficacy in all our formulations. We start by conducting extensive research on each ingredient’s origin, benefits, and safety profile. We source our ingredients from reputable suppliers who share our commitment to quality and sustainability.

We prioritize organic, non-GMO, and sustainably harvested ingredients. Our suppliers must provide certifications to verify the purity and ethical sourcing of their products.

All ingredients must be free from harmful chemicals, including parabens, sulfates, phthalates, synthetic fragrances, and artificial dyes. We maintain a blacklist of ingredients that do not meet our safety standards.

Ingredients are selected based on their proven effectiveness in skincare. We choose ingredients backed by scientific research and traditional use that demonstrate real benefits for the skin.

The field of clean beauty is constantly evolving, and we stay updated with the latest research and industry standards. We regularly review our formulations and ingredient lists to incorporate new findings and improve our products.

We also listen to customer feedback and strive to meet their needs and expectations for clean and effective skincare.

By adhering to these stringent criteria and processes, we ensure that our products meet the highest clean beauty standards, providing our customers with safe, effective, and ethical skincare solutions.

What steps do you take to educate consumers about the importance of clean ingredients and how they can make informed choices when purchasing beauty products?

Educating consumers about the importance of clean ingredients and helping them make informed choices is a core mission of our brand.

We regularly publish blog posts and articles on our website that delve into various aspects of clean beauty, ingredient benefits, and common harmful chemicals to avoid. This content is designed to be both educational and accessible.

Our social media platforms are used to share bite-sized educational content, including ingredient spotlights, skincare tips, and myth-busting posts.

We ensure all our product labels are clear and informative, listing every ingredient. This transparency helps consumers understand exactly what they are applying to their skin.

We run educational campaigns focusing on specific issues, such as the dangers of certain chemicals, the benefits of organic ingredients, or the importance of sun protection. These campaigns are promoted through our website, social media, and email newsletters.

By addressing timely and relevant topics, we keep our audience informed and engaged.

Our customer service team is trained to provide detailed information about our products and ingredients. They are available to answer questions and offer personalized skincare advice.

We also offer one-on-one consultations, either in person at our spa or virtually, where customers can discuss their skincare concerns and receive tailored product recommendations.

A big level of success came through our sample program where customers can try our products before committing to a purchase. This hands-on experience helps them feel the difference and understand the benefits of clean ingredients and make informed decision. We knew that if the products were high quality and effective, they’d sell themselves, and that exactly what our experience has been.

What innovative or unconventional ingredients are you most excited about in the clean beauty space, and why?

The clean beauty space is continually evolving, and several innovative and unconventional ingredients are capturing my attention. Here are a few that I’m particularly excited about.

Bakuchiol is a plant-based alternative to retinol, derived from the seeds of the Psoralea corylifolia plant. It offers similar anti-aging benefits, such as reducing fine lines and wrinkles, without the irritation and sensitivity often associated with retinol.

It’s gentle on the skin, making it suitable for sensitive skin types. Bakuchiol helps promote collagen production, improve skin elasticity, and even out skin tone, all while being a natural and sustainable option.

Sea buckthorn oil is rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids, including the rare omega-7. It is known for its regenerative and healing properties as it helps repair and rejuvenate the skin, reduces inflammation, and supports a healthy skin barrier. Its high nutrient content makes it a powerful addition to anti-aging and hydrating skincare formulations which is why we included it in our organic sunscreen.

Moringa Oil is extracted from the seeds of the moringa tree, moringa oil is packed with vitamins A, C, and E, as well as essential fatty acids. It’s known for its high antioxidant content and its ability to deeply nourish and hydrate the skin. Its versatility and nutrient density make it a standout ingredient in clean beauty.

These innovative ingredients not only offer unique benefits but also align with the clean beauty ethos of using natural, sustainable, and effective components.

Can you share a story where switching to clean beauty ingredients led to a significant and unexpected benefit for your customers?

Absolutely. One of our customers, Sarah, had struggled with sensitive skin for years. She had tried numerous conventional beauty products, but they often left her skin irritated and red. When she discovered our brand, which has always used clean beauty ingredients from the start, she was initially skeptical but decided to give it a try.

Within just a few weeks of using our products, Sarah noticed a significant improvement. Her skin felt more balanced, the redness diminished, and she experienced fewer breakouts. She was particularly surprised by how quickly her skin responded to our natural formulations. The absence of harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances made a massive difference in her skincare routine, providing a soothing and nourishing experience.

Sarah’s story is just one example of how our commitment to clean beauty from the beginning has led to significant benefits for our customers. Our dedication to pure, effective ingredients continues to transform the lives of many who seek healthier and more effective skincare solutions.

Based on your research or experience, can you please share your “5 Things You Need To Create a Successful Clean Beauty Brand”?

Clear Brand Identity

When ästhetik skincare was founded, I was determined to create a brand that stood for purity, simplicity, and sustainability and that was still effective. Inspired by my own struggles with sensitive skin and a desire for transparency in the beauty industry, I crafted a brand identity centered around these values. Through minimalist packaging, soothing color palettes, and a commitment to clean ingredients, ästhetik skincare quickly became synonymous with trust and reliability in the clean beauty market.

High-Quality Ingredients: I knew that if I did the hard work and cut out all the middlemen, I could bring high-quality ingredients to my clients without the high price point usually seen with that level of skincare. I forged relationships with suppliers who shared my commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing practices. By incorporating these high-quality ingredients into the formulations, I delivered unparalleled results while staying true to its clean beauty ethos.

Transparency and Integrity: From day one, I made transparency a top priority. I believed that consumers deserved to know exactly what they were putting on their skin. I meticulously listed every ingredient on our product labels, so I could educate my clients on their benefits. Additionally, I launched our website that’s loaded with education so that customers could learn more about ästhetik skincare’s products. This commitment and desire to help as many as we can, earned ästhetik skincare the trust and loyalty of its customers.

Innovation and Research: In my quest to create effective clean beauty products, I was constantly researching and innovating. I collaborated with leading skincare experts, dermatologists, and chemists to develop cutting-edge formulations that combined the best of nature and science. By harnessing the latest advancements in skincare science, ästhetik skincare was able to offer innovative solutions for its customers’ skincare concerns.

Engaged Community: I understood the importance of building a strong and engaged community around ästhetik skincare. We found that and then some here in SWFL and watching it spread throughput the US has been an amazing experience. We actively engaged with our customers on our website, social media, responding to questions, sharing skincare tips, and featuring user-generated content. We also host events where customers could learn more about skincare and connect with us. Through these efforts, ästhetik skincare fostered a loyal community of passionate advocates who not only loved the products but also spread their experiences and stand with us in our mission of clean beauty for all.

How do you foresee the clean beauty movement evolving in the next decade, and what role do you see your brand playing in that future?

The clean beauty movement is poised for significant evolution in the next decade, driven by increasing consumer demand for safer, more sustainable, and transparent beauty products. As awareness of environmental issues, ingredient safety, and ethical sourcing continues to grow, the clean beauty landscape will likely see several key developments. Clean beauty will become more mainstream as consumers prioritize health and wellness in their skincare routines. Major retailers and beauty conglomerates will invest in clean beauty brands and expand their clean beauty offerings to meet consumer demand.

Sustainability will become a central focus of the clean beauty movement, with brands prioritizing eco-friendly packaging, carbon-neutral production processes, and ethical ingredient sourcing. Innovations in sustainable packaging materials and recycling programs will become increasingly common.

Governments around the world will implement stricter regulations on cosmetic ingredients, requiring greater transparency and accountability from beauty brands. This will drive the industry towards cleaner formulations and more rigorous safety testing standards.

Technology will play a significant role in the future of clean beauty, with advancements in biotechnology, AI, and data analytics leading to more personalized skincare solutions. Brands will leverage technology to develop innovative formulations tailored to individual skin types and concerns.

The clean beauty movement will become more inclusive, with a focus on diversity in product offerings and marketing representation. Brands will cater to a wider range of skin tones and ethnicities, addressing the diverse needs of global consumers.

In this evolving landscape, ästhetik skincare envisions itself playing a leading role as a pioneer of clean beauty innovation and advocacy. We are committed to continuing our mission of providing safe, effective, and sustainable skincare solutions while championing transparency, inclusivity, and environmental stewardship. Through ongoing research, collaboration, and community engagement, we hope to shape the future of clean beauty and inspire positive change in the beauty industry. Thank you so much for giving us an opportunity to spread the news and educate!

This was very inspiring. Thank you so much for the time you spent on this. We wish you only continued success.