I set up Katy Carter Aesthetics in August 2019. I did it because I absolutely adore what I do. It’s such an honour that I can give people my treatments and make them feel amazing; the feeling I get from doing it is indescribable and I’m so passionate about it.
When I opened, there weren’t any other places that offered what I was going to offer. I saw an opportunity and just went for it. My main goal is to educate, relax and deliver results.
I do bespoke facial and body treatments. My top three big treatments are The Holy Grail, The KC Face Lift & The Perfect Peach.
How I got into the beauty industry
From a young age, I’ve always been very interested in the industry.
When I finished high school, I decided to study beauty at Highbury College, where I completed my level one and level two in beauty therapy. I then worked at the Solent Hotel and Spa for two years and trained in ESPA, YTSARA, MII and Jane Irdele products. I mainly carried out facials and massages.
Funnily enough, facials were my least favourite treatment to do – now it’s what I do day in day out!
When I turned 18 I went to work at Changes Clinic as a skincare practitioner. This is where I learnt chemical peels, fat reduction, radio-frequency, skin needling, laser hair removal, skincare and occasionally I assisted in minor surgery. My manager put me on lots of external courses and this is where I learnt the bulk of my knowledge.
Taking the plunge
After three years of working at Changes Clinic, I left and decided to take a break from the industry and became an estate agent. This didn’t last long, and I ended up spending my days talking about skin treatments with the other girls.
I decided I needed a year of fun, so I went to work in Glorious Spa, a beauty salon in Havant where I met some amazing friends.
Then, I took the plunge, left my job and just decided to go self-employed and start up my own skin business.
I have tried to create my own little clinic where the relaxing spa and salon element is combined with results treatments. I understand people taking time out their day can be difficult, so it was important to me to make sure my clinic is a relaxing, chilled environment where my clients leave more knowledgeable, relaxed and confident.
Since being self-employed, I’ve continued to take online education courses and enrol myself on further treatment training. I’ll continue to do so as the industry is forever changing and growing!
Running my own beauty business
It’s such hard work, I’m not going to lie, but it is so rewarding and I wouldn’t have it any other way. The flexibility is great and running my own business means I can do everything exactly how I want it and not have to abide by someone else’s rules!
My advice
Push yourself, ask questions, don’t give up, be kind to yourself, be the best you can be and work your ass off! Also, remember, you must fail to succeed. If you don’t fail, you’re not trying hard enough.
For someone wanting to follow the same career path as me…
1. Go for it, there is nothing more rewarding.
2. Focus and work hard, the industry is forever changing, so you really do need to love it!
3. Focus in college.
4. Try and work alongside doctors, dermatologists/Skincare specialists- even if it’s volunteering or work experience.
5. Always work with a team before you go off on your own.
6. Enjoy it and be proud of yourself.