This interview is with Diane Howard, RN and Founder at Esthetic Finesse.

Diane Howard, RN and Founder, Esthetic Finesse

Diane, can you tell us a bit about your journey in the world of beauty and what sparked your passion for it?

Back in high school, I had a project that involved exploring different career paths. One option was shadowing a dermatology office, and that experience caught my eye—I wanted a job where I could be artistic while helping people. My dad encouraged me to pursue nursing, while my mom urged me to use my creativity. I found a way to do both by becoming an aesthetic nurse. I was fortunate to learn from some of the best aesthetic nurses in the industry. One mentor, in particular, took me under her wing and taught me everything about injectables and the business side of aesthetics. I gained valuable knowledge and even started building my own client base. Later, I moved to a different medspa to expand my skills further. Eventually, I decided it was time to spread my wings. That’s when I took the leap and started Esthetic Finesse—and that’s how I ended up where I am today!

What were some of the pivotal steps you took to become a successful figure in the beauty industry?

One of the most pivotal steps I took was immersing myself in the study of facial anatomy and the aesthetics industry as a whole. This knowledge, combined with mastering precise injecting techniques, enables us to deliver natural and stunning results for our clients.

Can you share an experience with a client whose unique needs challenged you to think outside the box, and what valuable lesson did you learn from that encounter?

A big part of consultations is setting the right expectations. When designing any treatment, it’s essential to consider each client’s unique needs, such as face structure, skin type, and desired outcomes. To ensure we’re on the right track, I review upcoming appointments the night before and again the morning of. For returning clients, I revisit their previous results to better understand how to tailor the next steps. This approach allows me to educate clients while ensuring they love their looks!

Building on that, how do you usually approach consultations to understand a client's individual needs and preferences?

First and foremost—educate! I keep it real, show compassion, and take the time to truly get to know each client. I’m honest about what results they can realistically achieve and always share insights about the process. To make things more tangible, I maintain a portfolio showcasing real results from various treatments across a range of clients. Building rapport is crucial. Strong relationships, transparency, and trust ensure clients will want to return.

Many individuals struggle with identifying their skin type or concerns. What advice would you offer them based on your experience?

Getting a skin consultation from an expert, like an esthetician or dermatologist, is key. Everyone’s skin is different, and various factors affect it in unique ways. Seeking professional guidance helps you make informed decisions to achieve the best results for your skin.

With so many products flooding the market, how do you stay updated on the latest advancements and determine what's genuinely effective?

I believe skincare is an investment, so I’m committed to researching and evaluating the latest breakthroughs to ensure we offer the most effective solutions. While many products seem appealing, non-medical-grade options often lack the necessary penetration for real, lasting results. I advocate for medical-grade products rich in antioxidants and peptides. These help combat signs of aging and enhance overall skin health. Investing in high-quality skincare isn’t just about immediate results—it’s about cultivating beautiful, healthy skin for the future.

Sustainability is becoming increasingly important in beauty. How do you incorporate sustainable practices into your work?

As our largest organ, the skin deserves the utmost care and protection for long-term health. Daily SPF use and nourishing moisturizers protect the skin from environmental stressors while promoting overall well-being. Healthy, thriving skin allows you to look and feel your best.

Looking back on your journey, what's the most valuable piece of advice you've received that has significantly impacted your approach to beauty?

Truly master facial anatomy. Understanding the bones, muscles, layers of the skin, and overall face structure is what sets our services apart. This expertise allows us to deliver results that are both natural and transformative.

Finally, what empowering message would you like to share with aspiring beauty professionals or anyone looking to embrace their unique beauty?

"Fail to plan, plan to fail." I live by this motto! Planning effectively and aligning your actions with your goals makes achieving success much easier and faster. Good planning also allows you to develop repeatable processes that save time in the long run.

Thanks for sharing your knowledge and expertise. Is there anything else you'd like to add?

Stay positive! Maintaining a good mindset and confidence makes running your business more enjoyable and attracts the right clients to you.