Esthetician Spotlight: Jill Vasquez

With over 20 years in the beauty industry, what keeps you passionate about this field? 

With over 20 years in the beauty industry, my passion continues to grow because of the incredible impact I can make in my clients’ lives. I absolutely love helping clients feel more confident in their own skin—whether it’s through relaxing their nervous system or enhancing their natural beauty with facial massage. 

Facial massage is especially close to my heart. It’s not just about relaxation—it lifts the skin and tissues, boosts circulation, and creates a radiant glow with the power of my hands. Seeing the visible and emotional transformation in my clients is deeply rewarding. 

Beyond the treatments, building meaningful relationships with my clients keeps my work fulfilling. I cherish the trust and connections we develop over time. I also stay energized by my constant desire to learn and grow, exploring new techniques, products, and innovations to bring the best care to my clients. This industry is always evolving, and I’m thrilled to evolve with it. 

Tell us about the growth and evolution of Luna Beauty Studio under your leadership. 

Luna Beauty Studio has grown tremendously under the leadership of myself and my amazing business partners, Elizabeth Pritchard and Francesca Boren. What started as a small team of five has blossomed into a thriving team of about 20 talented individuals. 

We’ve worked hard to create a space where clients feel welcome and at home—a place where they can relax, connect, and leave feeling their best. Equally important is the culture we’ve fostered among our team. Collaboration and support are at the heart of everything we do, with everyone working together, staying on top of trends, and helping each other grow. 

This journey has been an incredible blend of teamwork, innovation, and shared vision, and we’re so proud of the community we’ve built at Luna Beauty Studio. 

What inspired you to create your One-on-One Advanced Facial Massage Techniques training manual, and how has it impacted your staff’s professional development? 

The inspiration for creating my One-on-One Advanced Facial Massage Techniques training manual came from my passion for sharing the transformative power of facial massage and the incredible educators who have guided me in my journey. I’ve had the privilege of learning from industry leaders such as Bethany Kristiansen and The Fix Method, whose expertise in advanced techniques like buccal massage and lymphatic drainage has been instrumental in shaping my own practice. Their mentorship inspired me to create a resource that could elevate my team’s skills—and other estheticians’—while contributing to the growth of our industry. 

Another driving factor was the clear gap I’ve observed in esthetic education. Many schools provide the basics but often fall short when it comes to advanced, hands-on training. I wanted to bridge that gap by creating a resource that empowers estheticians to elevate their skills, enhance client care, and ultimately stand out in this competitive industry. 

The manual offers a customizable approach, helping estheticians refine their techniques, understand the anatomy behind the methods, and enhance the overall client experience. Watching my team and others grow—and seeing the positive feedback from clients—has been incredibly fulfilling. 

This project reflects my belief in collaboration, continuous education, and paying forward the knowledge I’ve gained. I’m honored to give back to my team and the industry, while celebrating the guidance and inspiration of those who’ve helped me along the way. 

Which professional skincare lines do you enjoy working with most, and why? 

We work with several professional skincare lines, each chosen for its ability to address specific client needs and deliver exceptional results. For acne-prone clients, we rely on Face Reality Skincare, which has been instrumental in helping them achieve clearer, healthier skin. Their formulations are highly effective and consistent, making them a trusted option for managing acne. 

For our anti-aging guests, we use Circadia and Cosmedix—both offer a beautiful blend of products designed to rejuvenate and nourish the skin. Their combination of science-backed ingredients and luxurious textures makes them favorites among clients seeking a youthful glow. 

Recently, we added Be Blessed Skincare to our offerings, and we couldn’t be more excited. This line is crafted by a local esthetician with over 20 years of experience, whose dedication to high-quality formulations is truly inspiring. I deeply admire her vision and am proud to support her by sharing these incredible products with our clients. 

At the same time, we remain open to exploring other professional product lines that align with our vision and prioritize high-quality, cosmeceutical-grade ingredients. Continuously evolving our offerings ensures we can provide the best care possible for every client. 

You’re passionate about mentoring aspiring estheticians. What advice would you give to someone starting their career in esthetics? Similarly, what advice would you give to more seasoned professionals? 

For those starting their career in esthetics: 

My advice is to stay curious and never stop learning. Begin by mastering the basics, as a strong foundation in skincare techniques and knowledge is essential for building confidence. I also believe it’s incredibly beneficial to work for someone early in your career to gain experience, guidance, and mentorship before venturing out on your own. Learning from seasoned professionals and seeing how a successful business operates can set you up for long-term success. 

Additionally, take full advantage of the many free resources available to grow your knowledge. Reading trade magazines like LNE is invaluable. They’re filled with insights, trends, and inspiration from industry leaders that can help you gain more knowledge and confidence. I’m constantly reading and learning, and I truly believe that staying informed and open to new ideas is key to thriving in this ever-evolving field. Whether it’s attending webinars, joining professional groups, exploring online resources, or attending trade shows—there are endless opportunities to expand your skills. 

Most importantly, stay passionate, embrace growth, and never lose sight of why you started: to help others feel confident and cared for. 

Focus on communication. Your ability to connect with clients is just as important as your technical skills. Listen actively, understand their concerns, and educate them about their skin. 

Be patient with growth. Building a loyal clientele takes time and consistency. Stay professional, be patient, and focus on delivering quality results with care. 

Advice for seasoned professionals: 

I encourage you to continue evolving and embracing change. The beauty industry is always advancing, and staying ahead means being open to innovation and ongoing education. Refining your niche can set you apart—explore advanced techniques like buccal massage or lymphatic drainage to enhance your service offerings. 

Share your knowledge with others. Mentoring newer estheticians or collaborating with fellow professionals can be incredibly fulfilling. Building strong client relationships and providing exceptional care remain just as important as ever. Lastly, don’t forget to prioritize your own well-being. Balancing work and self-care ensures you can continue giving your best to your clients and your craft. 

What qualities do you believe are essential for an esthetician to succeed in today’s competitive beauty industry? 

The beauty industry is constantly evolving with new techniques, products, and technologies. Successful estheticians must stay curious and committed to ongoing education. Being adaptable to trends and advancements ensures you remain relevant and competitive. 

Building trust and understanding with clients is key. An esthetician must actively listen to client concerns, explain treatments clearly, and recommend personalized solutions. This helps foster strong relationships and client loyalty. 

A genuine passion for making others feel beautiful and cared for will shine through and set you apart. 

Mastering foundational skills, maintaining precision in your work, and staying consistent in delivering high-quality services are critical. 

Whether you’re working for a spa or running your own business, understanding marketing, client retention, and financial management is essential in today’s competitive market. Cultivating resilience to handle challenges and setbacks is equally important. 

How do you approach professional development meetings with your team to ensure they remain goal-oriented? 

At Luna Beauty Studio, we hold quarterly professional development meetings with our team to check in on their progress and goals—both professional and personal. We believe in fostering an environment where our staff feels supported not only in their careers but also in their overall well-being. 

During these meetings, we discuss key metrics like sales, retail performance, and client retention to identify areas for growth and celebrate achievements. Beyond the numbers, we make it a priority to listen to each team member’s aspirations, whether it’s mastering a new technique, purchasing a home, traveling, attending a specific class, or finding more balance between work and life. 

As leaders, our goal is to provide the resources, encouragement, and opportunities they need to thrive. Whether it’s funding education, offering mentorship, or simply being a sounding board, we strive to create a collaborative space where everyone feels empowered to grow. These meetings aren’t just about accountability—they’re about connection and showing our team that we’re invested in their success. 

How do you personalize treatments to cater to individual skin concerns? 

At Luna Beauty Studio, we prioritize a holistic approach to skincare, tailoring each treatment to the unique needs of our clients. A thorough consultation is the foundation of our personalization process. During this time, we evaluate skin concerns, lifestyle factors, and goals to craft a plan that addresses both immediate issues and long-term skin health. 

We incorporate various modalities to enhance our treatments, such as facial massage techniques, lymphatic drainage, and advanced tools like LED therapy, microcurrent, or gua sha. One of our signature offerings is our 90- or 120-minute all-inclusive facial—a completely customizable experience designed to give clients everything their skin needs in one session. 

This approach ensures that every client receives a treatment that is as unique as they are, blending clinical results with relaxation for an experience that nourishes both the skin and the soul. 

In your opinion, what’s the most overlooked aspect of skincare that clients should focus on? 

Many clients feel pressured to run straight to Botox or aggressive procedures without first building a healthy foundation for their skin. While these treatments can offer quick fixes, it’s crucial to start with good skincare and professional facial massage techniques that address concerns more naturally. Building a solid routine can delay—or even reduce—the need for invasive procedures. 

Unfortunately, many people also fall into the trap of trusting unlicensed influencers or trendy advice online. Clients often turn to “viral” products with questionable ingredients, leading to skin issues or wasted money. It’s essential to seek guidance from licensed professionals who understand skin physiology and can recommend personalized solutions tailored to individual needs. 

Lastly, clients often overlook the importance of maintaining their skin’s barrier health. Using too many harsh actives or frequently switching products can cause irritation and sensitivity. A balanced, minimal approach with quality ingredients is far more effective than following every trend. Skincare should focus on long-term health—not just quick fixes. 

How do you balance clinical results with the luxury experience clients seek? 

At Luna Beauty Studio, we strive to create a perfect blend of relaxation and results-driven skincare. While we address our clients’ skin concerns with effective, clinical-grade products and treatments, we never lose sight of the importance of providing a luxurious, elevated experience. 

From the moment clients walk through our doors, we focus on creating a calming environment where they feel completely cared for. Our treatments incorporate elements like advanced facial massage, aromatherapy, sound therapy, various modalities, and soothing techniques that relax the nervous system and enhance the overall experience. Even when using advanced tools or result-driven products, we ensure the process is gentle and luxuriating. 

We also go above and beyond to personalize every detail of the service so clients feel special and valued. Whether it’s a warm oil scalp massage with jade combs (Shirodhara coming soon!), a warm aromatherapy towel, herbal steam infusion, foot soak, or simply listening closely to their concerns, our goal is to offer extraordinary care. Clients leave not only with glowing, healthier skin but also feeling deeply rejuvenated and appreciated. 

Where do you see the future of the beauty industry heading in terms of education and innovation? 

I believe the future of the beauty industry lies in a continued focus on holistic skincare and wellness, along with AI advancements in facial modalities. 

Clients are becoming more mindful of how internal health and product ingredients impact their skin. Nutrition is increasingly recognized as essential to skincare. Professionals are now educating clients on how a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and healthy fats can enhance skin from the inside out. Clients are also becoming more aware of how inflammation, hormonal imbalances, and food sensitivities contribute to conditions like acne and rosacea. This knowledge is crucial for estheticians providing comprehensive care. 

Education in esthetics may soon include deeper insights into nutrition and its impact on the skin. Skincare treatments will evolve to include multisensory experiences that engage the skin, mind, and body. Techniques like Hadado massage—originating in Japan and blending traditional Japanese methods with modern skincare—will become more popular. Clients are increasingly seeking treatments that reduce stress, lift and tone, and boost circulation naturally. 

Consumers are also scrutinizing skincare ingredients more closely, seeking products free from harmful chemicals like parabens, sulfates, and synthetic fragrances. This shift creates an opportunity for estheticians to educate their clients on the benefits of high-quality, active ingredients that are clinically effective and support the skin’s natural barrier. 

Innovation will continue to merge the best of technology and nature. Skincare will increasingly draw from ancient traditions, like Ayurveda and herbal remedies, and combine them with modern science. In the future, estheticians will offer treatments that integrate holistic approaches, AI technologies, and nutrition-based strategies. This integration will lead to a more personalized, results-driven experience—addressing both external skin concerns and internal health. It’s an exciting future where the beauty industry will support overall well-being through truly holistic, innovative care. 

How do you incorporate holistic practices, like Reiki and nutrition, into your services? 

Incorporating holistic practices like nutrition and Reiki into my services involves a mindful approach tailored to each client’s needs. While I don’t offer full nutritional counseling, I do educate clients on how certain foods may contribute to inflammation or hormonal imbalances that affect their skin. I also recommend supplements to support women’s health. I believe that even a simple awareness of these factors can make a significant impact on overall skin health. 

As for Reiki, I don’t incorporate it into every session, but I offer it when a client is open to receiving it. It’s about the energy exchange, stress reduction, and creating a sense of calm. For those who are receptive, I bring in positive, uplifting energy to enhance relaxation and healing during the treatment. The key is ensuring the experience aligns with the client’s mindset and openness to these practices. 

If you could share one piece of advice with your younger self when you first started in this industry, what would it be? 

If I could share one piece of advice with my younger self, it would be this: Have confidence in yourself and trust that with determination and hard work, you can achieve anything. Professional growth takes time, so be patient—it’s okay to fail. Failure makes you stronger and more resilient. You will learn and grow from it. 

Set goals, stay focused, and know that your experiences—both good and bad—will shape your future in meaningful ways. Believe in yourself, and don’t let self-doubt or others’ opinions hold you back. 

What legacy do you hope to leave in the esthetics industry? 

I aim to leave a legacy of empowering others in the esthetics industry through education. I want to be remembered for helping others realize their full potential—guiding them toward success with a strong foundation in both technical expertise and confidence. 

I’m passionate about creating new ideas and treatments. My goal is to leave behind a legacy where I’ve not only elevated my own career and company but have helped shape the future of the esthetics industry through mentorship, creativity, and passion. 

How can readers connect with you to learn more about your work or schedule a treatment? 

Instagram: @jill_lunabeautystudio
Website: lunabeautystudio.net – to book an appointment
Email: lunabeautystudio@yahoo.com
Phone: 219-515-2793