LILY POTGEITER, 26, is a licenced aesthetician who now lives in Kenya courtesy of her Dallas encounter. She spoke to TRICIA WANJALA
What is your background and profession?
Iâve lived in Kenya for two and a half years now. Originally, I am from a?city full of Mexican culture in Texas â El Paso. When I was 22 and tried every major in?college, I?decided on a career?and then?attended Aesthetic?School?in Dallas, Texas.?
Why did you choose your particular career?
I became an aesthetician because I loved the idea of helping people feel more confident. Many people have?low self-esteem?because of skin problems. Since your face is what is seen?and remembered the most when meeting?people, I have found that this is something that really bothers many people. I feel a great sense of satisfaction when I am able to help them feel better by improving their skin health and appearance, without changing anything.?
How is your profession different from that of a beautician?
The difference is the actual training we go through.? Beauticians do the basics but aestheticians are also required to learn a lot of technical knowledge and to undergo a certain time period of practical experience before getting a State license. I did additional courses after getting my license because I wanted to unite the medical world with the spa feel.? So I applied only at Medi-Spas and did several skin care courses.?
How did you end up working here?
In Dallas I met my husband, Marcus, who was there as an international student. I was intrigued to learn that he was from Kenya. We were friends for a year before?he moved?back to?Kenya then we dated for two and a half years over Skype. Letâs just say it took me a long time after getting married to want to go near a computer. We got married in 2010. Five days?later, I had four suitcases full of?my skin care products to hold me over for?a year, clothes and a few other items to make me?feel?âat home.â
What is the biggest challenge in your job?
Gaining the trust of all my clients. I care about my clients and I want the best results for each. Unfortunately,?everyoneâs skin is different, so I canât guarantee any specific results. I use different medical-grade products, which I import, and advise my clients on the best methods of at-home maintenance so they can maintain the same good results.
What advice would you give girls and women about the basics of skin care?
