Featured Therapist – Kelly Evans

Meet Kelly, our very own queen of skin care! She joined Icon Beauty in 2011 and has been a key member of the team ever since. Find out what initially draw Kelly to the profession, what her favourite products and treatments are and what advice she would give to anyone just starting out in the business…

How long have you been working in the beauty profession?
Goodness, it must be over 18 years now!

What made you want to follow this career originally?
I have always had a fascination with all things to do with beauty, going back to when I was little and used to watch my lovely nan blend lipstick over her cheeks to use as blush. But I think it was my Food Technology teacher at school that planted the seed. I used to spend my time sat in class beautifying myself and she would roll her eyes and say to me, ’Kelly, you need to go to beauty school, so you can at least learn how to apply make-up properly!’
From then on all I wanted to do was learn more and put my skills to practice.

How has the beauty industry changed in the last 10 years?
I think it has changed enormously over the past decade. When I was growing up the only beauty advice available was from our mothers and grandmothers. Technology has revolutionised the industry, beauty has moved from magazines to online and channelled it directly into our homes.
There are so many beauty bloggers now, reviewing the latest brands and products and the anti-aging industry has exploded. From Retinols, AHA’s and anti-oxidants to lasers and fillers, the amount of choice is incredible. Women used to be very discreet about anything they had done, whereas now it is very normal for young women to talk openly about their favourite treatments, including Botox. The trend is also moving towards wearing less makeup and caring more about your skin, which I think is great!

What sets Icon Beauty apart from other salons?
The consistently high standard of professionalism our clients can expect, delivered in a super relaxed, welcoming and friendly environment. It is something we are very proud of and work hard to maintain.

What is your favourite / specialist treatment?
This is a tough question and one of the reasons I love beauty therapy as much as I do. There are so my treatments on offer, it is very hard to pick just one favourite! However, I suppose the treatment I feel most passionate about is the advanced skin care I do with our Jan Marini products. The results you can achieve in a very short space of time, even on the most aggressive acne, are impressive*.

What is your favourite brand / product?
This is an easy question for me and all my lovely clients who know me well will know the answer too. I am a HUGE fan of Jan Marini and have been since my training with them over 10 years ago. I have been using their products on my skin ever since and passionately believe in their products. I wouldn’t go without any of their 5 step products and use them all at home, however if I had to pick just one then it would be their Antioxidant SPF 3. I never leave the house without applying!

What advise would you give to anyone just starting out in the beauty profession?
Make sure you create good working relationships with people in the industry as they in turn can help and guide you. Be sure to always look the part, act professionally and stay up to date. Beauty brands and trends are forever evolving, and it is important to stay informed. If you are passionate and knowledgeable about beauty, don’t mind working hard and often long hours, then beauty therapy is for you and can be hugely rewarding.

What do you enjoy most about your role?
Without a doubt it is helping make people feel good about themselves. Our clients don’t just look forward to their treatments, they also enjoy the company of their therapist. I have known many of my clients for a long time and I love catching up with them and making a positive connection. I have made many friends with both colleagues and clients over the years and it is one of the best and most rewarding parts of the job.

Kelly x

*Please note whilst we can offer treatments and products for acne, we do not diagnose this condition. We advise you consult your doctor / dermatologist for confirmation and diagnosis.