Today we’d like to introduce you to Amber McMillan
Hi Amber, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My co-founder Brian DeRosa and I started CLEO out of deep frustration with the state of modern skincare. The industry has a dirty secret: 90% of the topical skincare products we use and cosmetic treatments work only at a superficial level – or even worse, they may not work at all. The clinical literature on the efficacy of laser is vast and unfortunately the same cannot be said for most topical products. All of the skin concerns we care about – be that wrinkles, acne, sun damage etc. – originate beyond the epidermis, meaning they’re in the deep layers of the skin that are hard to access. Laser is the gold standard for reaching these deep layers and addressing your skin concerns right at the source. But historically, laser treatments have only been within reach for celebrities in cities like Los Angeles, New York, Paris etc. – so we started CLEO to change that.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Historically, laser and energy-based devices have been too expensive and high-friction to go truly mainstream. At CLEO, we’ve changed the narrative by optimizing our business model for strict service specialization, the best technology available, and a hospitality-first mindset – all positioning us to grow the laser market by bringing more consumers into it.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about CLEO Skin + Laser?
What are you known for?
– We’re known for our expertise & our innovative approach in cosmetic laser. We find that at most medspas, providers have to juggle a variety of service types: injectables, cool sculpting, IV therapy, etc., which can really compromise their ability to focus on providing exceptional outcomes in laser and invest in the best equipment. CLEO providers specialize exclusively in laser, completing thousands of appointments over the course of their careers so far.
What should we know?
– The bottom line: CLEO’s mission is to usher in a new era of skincare focused on efficacy, transparency, and accessibility. We combine expert clinical knowledge with cutting-edge and stress-free laser treatments delivering an exceptional standard of care in skin rejuvenation, anti-aging, hair removal and tattoo removal.
What do you want readers to know?
– CLEO opened their first studio in Maple Grove on July 15th and we are set to debut our second location right at the heart of 50th & France in Edina on Aug 12th. For a limited time CLEO is offering first time Glass Skin Laser Facials for only $80 to new customers ($200 savings). The Glass Skin Laser Facial is a 15 minute treatment with no pain & no downtime, providing a deeper clean than traditional facials, boosting collagen & elastin to reverse fine lines & wrinkles, and breaking up pigmentation for a more even tone.
What are you most proud of?
– We are most proud of the feedback we’ve received from our customers throughout our research & development phases and now since opening. We’re seeing customers abandon overly-complex 10-step skincare routines and transition to our evidence-based approach of daily cleanser, moisturizer and SPF – matched with a monthly laser facial.
What sets you apart from others?
– We don’t see ourselves as a “traditional medspa”. The term alone feels antiquated to us. We’re not trying to do 25 different services that provide “okay results” – we’re firmly focused on the laser and energy-based market. We believe this is the future of beauty, and we don’t believe that quality needs to come at the expense of accessibility. Though we’re offering amongst the most competitive pricing for laser treatments in the Twin Cities, you can trust that when you come to CLEO you’ll be matched with an empathetic and highly experienced provider using the best technology in the world to truly partner with you on your skin journey.
We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
Though I might not give off the vibe in the boardroom or at team meetings, I’m a total gym rat and love doing heavy squats while listening to Nirvana at full blast!
Pricing:
- CLEO’s signature service is their Glass Skin Laser Facial, which for a limited time is being offered to first timers for only $80.
- Unlike most medspas, large and small, all of CLEO’s pricing is transparent with affordable memberships, packages and single sessions.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://cleoskinandlaser.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cleoskinandlaser/
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@cleoskinandlaser
