We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Acne Expert Elle a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Acne Expert Elle, really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?
I found my purpose through what once felt like my biggest struggle: acne. I started breaking out at a young age and tried everything to clear my skin without success. It wasn’t until I met my first esthetician, Crystal, that I began to heal both my skin and my confidence. She introduced me to professional skincare and sparked my curiosity to learn everything I could. When she encouraged me to study esthetics myself, it felt like God was showing me the next step. What began as a personal struggle turned into a calling to help others feel seen, supported, and confident in their own skin.


Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I often say I’m in the business of transformation, not just of skin but of confidence. As a Licensed Master Esthetician and Level 2 Certified Acne Expert, I blend the science of skincare with the art of human connection. My treatments are tailored and intuitive, created to meet each client exactly where they are in their journey.
What makes this work so special to me is seeing someone’s reflection begin to match how they feel inside. There’s something almost sacred about that moment when a client looks in the mirror and truly sees themselves: peaceful, radiant, renewed. The glow, the confidence, the quiet assurance that comes from seeing skin heal… it’s beautiful to witness every single time.
I’ve recently added a “Quick Peel” Service for clients that have already been through my Clear Skin Program, who want consistent maintenance care that fits into real life! Lately I have also been putting on my makeup artist “hat” for acne-safe looks at special events… I even did my own bridal makeup this past summer (pictured)! I continue to love working with my favorite acne-safe brands, Face Reality Skincare and TiZO SPF. I’m also thrilled to be officially launching my brand soon, complete with its own name, color palette, fonts, and website… Coming Soon!


There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Looking back, the three qualities that shaped my journey were perseverance, curiosity, and the willingness to seek guidance. Perseverance showed up early when I struggled with severe acne as a teen. I tried countless products and routines that didn’t work, but staying committed to the process eventually led to real results. That same persistence carried me through esthetic school, moving across states, and building a career from the ground up. My advice to anyone starting out is simple: stay patient and consistent. Change takes time, but it is worth the effort.
Curiosity and a love of learning fueled my growth. I asked endless questions, studied treatments deeply, and learned why some methods worked and others didn’t. For those just starting, I recommend embracing curiosity fully: read, take courses, ask questions, and keep learning. Finally, seeking guidance from mentors early on made all the difference. Having experienced professionals answer questions and offer feedback helped me grow faster and avoid mistakes. Perseverance, curiosity, and mentorship have been the foundation of my journey, and cultivating these qualities can help anyone turn their passion into purpose.


Tell us what your ideal client would be like?
My ideal client is someone who values their skin and is ready to invest in its health. They’re open to guidance, curious and willing to learn about their skin, and committed to a routine that delivers real results. I love working with clients who want a personalized experience, enjoy a calm, thoughtful space, they’re willing to trust the process, and are excited to feel confident in their skin, again!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://acneexpertelle.square.site
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elle0laesthetics?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/acne-expert-elisha-elle-brandel-burbank?utm_campaign=www_business_share_popup&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=(direct)


Image Credits
Laura Dennis Photography
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
