Today we’d like to introduce you to Leilena Bayou.
Hi Leilena, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Hard truth, my first entry into Esthetics was for licensing! A full esthetics license was a necessity to sugar wax legally in MN (as opposed to simply a waxing license in NY). And so, I started school with the intention to ‘get through’ and be legally able to sugar. In the process, I learned enough to be able to clear up my severe acne and hyperpigmentation within months (after YEARS of trying on my own). I underestimated the power of well-informed skincare and skin management, and so my curiosity grew. I worked on my mother’s aging skin and saw the changes that different treatments could promote. By the end of the course, I was all in. I split my time between skin and sugar, and I’ve been hooked to the entirety of Esthetics ever since.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I think the biggest struggle would have to have been navigating my relocation to Minnesota. Moving here (almost 3 years ago now!) was and still is my favorite “adult” decision, this city has brought me closer to loved ones in way that feels really special to me, but the struggle of starting a business in a less familiar city was a challenge! I feel lucky to have bumped into the perfect connections to help stabilize and build my little business up, but starting from the ground up client wise was definitely my biggest challenge.
We’ve been impressed with Sugar Bare Esthetics, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Sugar Bare Esthetics was born to take care of skin as holistically as possible. I (currently ;)) focus on hair removal and skin care. Although I do perform/ love a good peel or less “natural” treatment, keeping it simple and addressing root causes is my favorite treatment plan.
Sugar Wax is my specialty, I’ve been practicing for over 10 years now and it still excites me to get into the treatment room and show clients how transformative that simple paste can be. I also specialize in skin care, particularly acne prone and pigmented skin. Giving my clients skin they are proud of, whether it’s through hair removal, facials, or both, is what I love to do.
Working with natural ingredients as often as possible is likely what sets Sugar Bare apart from other hair removal salons. From pre to post care, I use simple and natural ingredients (talc free powders/bentonite clay, witch hazel, fresh aloe leaves, etc.). It’s important for me to feel good about what I’m putting on my clients’ skin, keeping unnecessary chemicals out of the treatment room is something my clients can rely on. Something else that has been mentioned to me as a standout is the time dedicated to each client. I make a point to buffer appointments with 10 to 15 minutes on each end, which gives me time to be intentional with each client. Whether you’re in for an underarm sugar or a full facial, your time in the salon is never rushed and at your pace. Connection and humanness are cornerstone in my practice, I aspire to keep my business as people forward as possible, and that is one way I’m able to do that.
What does success mean to you?
Success to me looks like time and freedom. Specifically, freedom to conduct my business how I want and freedom to have time with loved ones when I want.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://sugarbareesthetics.com
- Instagram: @sugarbareesthetics
- Facebook: Sugar Bare Esthetics
- Other: @sugarbareesthetics on tiktok
