Authority Magazine: Women in Wellness: Alexis Pfropper Of ästhetik Skincare On The Five Lifestyle Tweaks That Will Help Support People’s Journey Towards Better Wellbeing

Today, more than ever, wellness is at the forefront of societal discussions. From mental health to physical well-being, women are making significant strides in bringing about change, introducing innovative solutions, and setting new standards. Despite facing unique challenges, they break barriers, inspire communities, and are reshaping the very definition of health and wellness. In this series called women in wellness we are talking to women doctors, nurses, nutritionists, therapists, fitness trainers, researchers, health experts, coaches, and other wellness professionals to share their stories and insights. As a part of this series, we had the pleasure of interviewing Alexis Pfropper.

Alexis Pfropper is a licensed esthetician and skilled permanent makeup artist based in Punta Gorda, Fla. With an early passion for skincare and beauty, she quickly developed a deep understanding of the transformative power of self-care.

After completing her formal training with the Beauty and Health Institute in 2019, she embarked on a mission to redefine the spa experience and launched ästhetik spa. Since then, she continues to expand her knowledge in skincare, spa therapies, and the science of pure skin™, attending advanced courses, and staying up-to-date with the latest trends and breakthroughs.

At ästhetik Spa, Alexis works with each client to curate personalized treatments that provide personalized care for their specific skin’s needs. With her extensive background in reflexology, ästhetik spa offers a range of treatments designed to uplift and inspire.

In 2020, unsatisfied with existing skincare products, she took the bold step of launching her own line, ästhetik skincare. Meticulously crafted, this clean, eco-friendly product line is a testament to her commitment to quality and effectiveness and incorporates cutting-edge, organic, kosher, biodegradable, fair trade, and natural ingredients that stay true to sustainable practices.

Alexis remains deeply committed to giving back to her community. She actively promotes self-esteem, wellness education and sustainability through local events and initiatives. Through mentorships she empowers aspiring estheticians and entrepreneurs to pursue their dreams in the beauty industry.

Alexis’ contributions to the industry and her local community have not gone unnoticed. ästhetik spa & skincare has garnered accolades for excellence in service and innovation, including from Harbor Style and the Sun as the best Spa and skincare in SWFL multiple years in a row. Her skincare line has earned praise from industry experts and loyal clients alike, solidifying her status as a luminary in the beauty and wellness space.

Thank you so much for joining us in this interview series! Our readers would love to “get to know you” better. Can you share your “backstory” with us?

Iam a licensed esthetician and skilled permanent makeup artist based in Punta Gorda, Florida. With an early passion for skincare and beauty, I quickly developed a deep understanding of the transformative power of skincare.

I have been in love with skincare since I was young, and started learning as much as I could as soon as possible. After completing formal training with the Beauty and Health Institute in 2019, I made it my mission to redefine the spa experience and launched ästhetik spa. Since then, I have expanded my knowledge in skincare, spa therapies, and the science of pure skin™, attending advanced courses, and staying up-to-date with the latest trends and breakthroughs.

Can you share the most interesting story that happened to you since you started your career? What were the main lessons or takeaways from that story?

The biggest lesson I learned was in my first week of the ästhetik spa being open. I opened in March of 2020, right when the Covid-19 pandemic hit. That went exactly how you’d expect it would. I opened and close in the same week and was heartbroken. Opening my own spa was my dream, and a pandemic wasn’t in any of my plans. But I refused to give up. I wanted to make this a success and I knew I could if I worked hard and didn’t give up. So, I got creative. I started doing skincare education classes on Zoom, working on my online presence, and worked double time on developing my skincare line. During this time, I got to know my landlords, Megan and Anthony. This amazing couple that I had the utmost respect for. They are kind and down to earth, and know the value of hard work, and saw the potential for me to grow. For my first month renting my space, they traded my rent for gift cards for their friends, family, and coworkers. When I was finally able to see clients in the spa, those gift cards created the foundation of my client base. From there, my entire business was built by referrals and word of mouth. I was able to grow to the point of bringing on my mom as a partner to help me keep up, which taught me the power of teamwork.

But a large reason I got that jump start was because they took a chance on me and saw my potential, fast forward to today and I’m privileged to have Megan as part of my team as well.

This taught me that if you’re willing to work hard for your dreams and goals you can achieve them. Even if plans change or it seems like it’s going to be too difficult. You can do it. And that hard work does not go unrecognized.

It has been said that our mistakes can be our greatest teachers. Can you share a story about a mistake you made when you were first starting? Can you tell us what lesson you learned from that?

In starting on my entrepreneurial journey, I overlooked a few important aspects — balance and personal investment. In the pursuit of business goals, the importance of investing in myself was often put on the back burner. It took a critical moment of reflection to recognize the value of this for myself and my business.

I was so determined to see fast progress that I put myself completely into my work, but this neglect subtly eroded my competitive edge, and put me on a path heading straight for burnout. It wasn’t the easiest lesson to learn, but I came to the understanding that progress isn’t immediate, or linear.

The experience sparked a profound shift in my mindset and approach. I needed more balance in my life. It’s hard when it’s your business- your baby- and you want to see it thrive and grow. But you need to take a step back at times to recharge and regroup, which makes you come back stronger.

If you do your best and show up ready to work for what you want, you will succeed, but not overnight. This takes time, so don’t give up, and keep the pace of your work steady and consistent. Our entire journey through life consists of a steady rhythm of learning and unlearning. Now, I’m so grateful I’ve created a path where investing in myself is not just a choice but a necessity for sustained success.

Let’s jump to our main focus. When it comes to health and wellness, how is the work you are doing helping to make a bigger impact in the world?

If I could implant one thought in everyone’s head about skin, it would be that “healthy skin is beautiful skin” l would love to be the contributing factor in the mindset switch of how we view skin. For years we’ve been looking at pictures of airbrushed pictures setting unattainable standards for beauty. I want to create a tribe of everyday humans like me, that want to look and feel healthy and beautiful. I want to help boost others’ self-confidence and help them feel comfortable in their bodies and skin, and recognize how amazing they are. And I want to do all of that using the power of nature itself. I want to provide people with plant-based products that actually work. formulated with efficacy in mind. So that real people can benefit from real ingredients and see real results.

Can you share your top five “lifestyle tweaks” that you believe will help support people’s journey towards better wellbeing?

Here are some of my top lifestyle tweaks to support this transformative journey:

1. Embrace Morning Mindfulness

Begin your day with intention and presence. I used to wake up 15 minutes before I had to leave, and although at first, I thought this was the right choice because I got a few extra minutes of sleep, this left me groggy and rushed in the mornings, and not being mentally prepared for the day. If you can relate, try what I’ve been working on for the past year. As you wake up, take a few moments to breathe deeply, appreciating the stillness before the day unfolds. Consider integrating mindfulness practices, such as meditation or gentle stretching, to set a calm and centered tone for the day ahead. This is also a great practice to integrate into your skincare routine. If you have trouble getting started, I recommend taking time each day to reflect on the blessings, both big and small, that surround you. This practice invites positivity and shifts your focus to the richness of the present moment. I love the practice of infusing my daily life with gratitude.

2. Practice humility

This one took me time to fully understand but once I did it completely impacted and transformed the way I think. For the longest time, I was under the impression that humility meant that I had to feel like everyone was better or above me, but I was helped to understand that this line of thinking can affect your self-esteem. Instead, I allowed myself to be open to learning from others, and seeing the world full of experiences I haven’t yet had, and when someone has had those experiences and has input to share, to really value it. I try to see what I can take away from each person that I meet. This has helped ground me and taught me the value of actively listening and allowed me to kindly challenge myself to improve without effecting my self-esteem.

3. Nourish Your Body with Mindful Eating

I love the phrase “food is medicine”. I’ve worked so hard to transform my relationship with food by practicing mindful eating, and choosing food that nourishes my body. I’ve been on a journey for quite some time to heal my gut with food. Every change and adjustment I’ve made along the way has improved other facets of my life and it’s so incredible to see not only improvements in my gut health, but also my skin, hair, and mental and emotional wellbeing.

The key is to start off slowly and stay consistent. mindful eating fosters a deeper connection with your body, and making small lifestyle changes, one at a time can make for a large long-term transformation.

4. Digital Detox for Mental Clarity

We’ve never lived in a world so simultaneously connected and disconnected. Unplug from the digital world at designated times to create space for mental clarity. Whether it’s a brief break from screens during meals or a more extended digital detox on weekends, allowing your mind to unwind from constant connectivity promotes tranquility and enhances your ability to be present in the real world. This can be a hard habit to break because of the instant gratification we receive from our phones. That dopamine release is addicting. So, start out slow. Set time limits on certain apps and fill the time that you would have been using your phone to do something you enjoy, that way, limiting phone time doesn’t feel like a punishment. Over time you can break that addiction and find healthier ways to give yourself that dopamine boost and calm your mind.

5. Create a Restful Evening Ritual

Sleep is so vital for our body and our skin’s renewal and healing. I love to wind down my day with a restful evening ritual. For me, that includes activities like journaling, stretching, and enjoying a relaxing skin care routine, where I include massage, microcurrent or LED light therapy. For others, maybe it’s reading a calming book, practicing gentle yoga, or simply enjoying a warm cup of herbal tea. Cultivate an environment conducive to relaxation, signaling to your mind and body that it’s time to ease into a peaceful night. The more consistent you are, the better sleep you’ll get, making your mornings feel far more well rested.

If you could start a movement that would bring the most amount of wellness to the most amount of people, what would that be?

If I could start a movement to bring wellness to the most amount of people, it would focus on “Holistic Wellness Integration.” This movement would emphasize the interconnectedness of physical, mental, and emotional well-being, advocating for a comprehensive approach to health. By promoting practices that harmonize skincare with nutrition, exercise, mindfulness, and mental health support, the movement aims to empower individuals to cultivate a balanced and resilient lifestyle. For example, educating on the impact of nutrition on skin health. Stress, a common factor affecting skin conditions, can be addressed through holistic approaches, contributing to a healthier, more resilient complexion. And encouraging regular exercise, not just for physical fitness, but to enhance circulation, oxygenate the skin, and promote a healthy glow. By intertwining skincare practices with broader well-being principles, this movement seeks to make holistic wellness accessible and achievable for the maximum number of people. It goes beyond skincare routines to embrace a lifestyle that nurtures the mind, body, emotions, and skin — fostering a state of well-being that radiates from within.

What are your “5 Things I Wish Someone Told Me Before I Started” and why?

1. Embracing Mistakes

At the start of my journey, a mistake was the equivalent to the end of the world. Understanding that making mistakes is not just acceptable but integral to my journey took time. As a business owner, mistakes are not pitfalls but steppingstones toward growth and mastery. Each misstep offered me invaluable lessons, providing insights into refining my techniques, my products, enhancing my client’s experiences. Now, I work to analyze each experience in my life both professionally and personally, learn from it, and allow it to propel me toward continuous improvement. In the realm of skincare, where techniques and trends evolve, viewing mistakes as opportunities for refinement fosters a culture of innovation and expertise. If I continue to create and change, I can only improve.

2. Mastering Social Media Marketing

Recognize the paramount importance of mastering social media marketing in the beauty and skincare industry. Understanding how to effectively market yourself on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok is akin to unlocking a powerful avenue for connecting with your audience. Learn to curate visually appealing content that showcases your expertise, spa ambiance, and the transformative results of your services. Engage with your audience authentically, sharing skincare tips, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and client success stories. Utilizing social media strategically not only broadens your reach but also establishes a genuine connection with potential clients. Embrace the art of storytelling through captivating visuals and compelling captions, positioning yourself not just as an esthetician but as a trusted skincare expert. In the digital age, the ability to navigate and leverage social media effectively is a cornerstone for building a thriving and visible esthetician practice.

3. Confidence is key

This is something one of my mentors actually highlighted to me years ago but I didn’t fully understand it until I really got to work. There are going to be times where you may be intimidated to work on, speak to or educate a client as an esthetician based on their background, occupation, or financial/social status. As a trained professional, it’s so important to embrace the confidence that comes with your expertise. Don’t let intimidation hold you back from working on certain individuals. I need to remember that my extensive training equips me to handle diverse skin types and concerns. This was not the easiest to lean into in the beginning but eventually I was able to approach each client with assurance in my skills, knowing that my knowledge and experience position me as a capable esthetician. So, if I can pass any wisdom along, it would be to be open to the unique challenges each client brings, and let your confidence shine through as you navigate the intricacies of skincare. Trust in your ability to provide exceptional service and address the specific needs of each person who walks through your spa doors. Your confidence not only elevates your practice but also instills trust and assurance in your clients, fostering a positive and empowering experience for both you and those you serve.

4. Prioritizing Self-Care for Longevity

For me I needed to recognize the importance of self-care. In the demanding spa industry, prioritizing well-being wasn’t easy, and started taking its toll. But through pacing myself wellness practices, and professional and personal development, I was able to better contribute to both my personal fulfillment and professional longevity.

5. The Importance of Humility

I think it’s so important to recognize the role of humility in the journey. Whether interacting with clients, collaborating with peers, or navigating challenges, humility fosters a positive and receptive environment. Embracing a humble attitude opens doors to continuous learning and establishes genuine connections, vital for personal and professional growth. Cultivating humility is not a sign of weakness but a powerful tool that enhances relationships and fuels success in the world of esthetics, spa ownership, and skincare entrepreneurship. It’s something that I must continuously remind myself of.

Sustainability, veganism, mental health, and environmental changes are big topics at the moment. Which one of these causes is dearest to you, and why?

Sustainability:

Sustainability, with its multifaceted influence on our lives, resonates as a cause that is extremely dear to me. It’s so much more than just a buzzword. It embodies a commitment to conscious living, a recognition that our choices echo through the interconnected web of our planet. From the products we choose, to the habits we cultivate, sustainability is a call to be mindful guests on this planet. It’s not just about preserving resources for future generations but fundamentally altering our relationship with the Earth. The endeavor to promote sustainable practices is, for me, a journey towards harmonious coexistence, a way to live in balance with the natural world that sustains us.

Veganism:

Veganism is rooted in compassion and environmental consciousness, and it holds a special place in my heart. Choosing a plant-based lifestyle is so much more than just dietary preferences; it’s a conscientious decision to lessen our impact on the planet and foster ethical treatment of animals. Embracing veganism is an acknowledgment that our choices extend beyond our plate, reaching into the realms of environmental sustainability and animal welfare. It’s a profound expression of empathy, resonating with the belief that our decisions should reflect a commitment to the well-being of all living beings.

Mental Health:

Mental health advocacy stands out as an essential cause. It’s so important for us to recognize the intricate interplay between emotional well-being and overall quality of life, especially the mental health epidemic we find ourselves in. The pervasive stigma surrounding mental health tends to shut down open conversations, creating an environment where so many people suffer in silence. I experienced this firsthand dealing with my own mental health, when I was finally able to reach a point of acceptance within myself, and share my experiences, I was able to grow and care for my health better than I ever had before. Prioritizing mental health is an acknowledgment that emotional well-being is integral to our holistic health. Our mind and body are so incredibly connected, and to care for our mental and emotional health is to care for our gut health, our nervous system, improve our sleep hygiene, balance hormones, and improve even our skin. Through awareness, education, and removing the stigma that surround mental health, we can foster a society that values every individual’s mental and emotional health, paving the way for compassion, understanding, and a supportive community that can bring about real growth.

Environmental Changes:

The urgency of addressing environmental changes speaks volumes in our current global context. Our planet is undergoing profound transformations, impacting ecosystems and climate patterns. Advocating for environmental changes isn’t just about acknowledging the issues; it’s a call to action. From embracing sustainable practices in our daily lives to actively supporting conservation efforts, each step contributes to the collective endeavor of safeguarding the delicate balance of our planet. Addressing environmental challenges becomes a pivotal responsibility, not just for the present, but as stewards ensuring a sustainable future for generations yet to come.

Thank you for these fantastic insights! We wish you continued success and good health.