Meet Cathy Johnson

We recently connected with Cathy Johnson and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Cathy, 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 my own struggle with acne. Growing up I had hormonal acne and the first chance I got I immediately gravitated to makeup. I ended up working for big makeup brands and excelled in that career but I constantly ran into people who were trying to “cover” something. Whether it be age spots, acne or hyperpigmentation I ran into many clients who expressed their skin concerns to me and they wanted makeup to be the solution. I constantly reassured them of their beauty without the makeup and realized I needed to give that assurance to myself. I felt beautiful and confident with makeup on but didn’t feel as strong when it came off and that started my journey into Esthetics. I understood from first hand experience why my clients were self conscious about their skin because I was too. I wanted to help my own skin and help others as well. The longest relationship we have is with ourselves. I wanted to help myself and others nurture that self love and confidence through radiant, healthy skin!

Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?

I am a result driven, award winning Licensed Esthetician specializing in Corrective Skincare with a focus on Acne. I am also the Owner and Founder of No Shade Event. No Shade is a educational seminar focused on melanated complexions. This event is suggested for estheticians who want to gain more knowledge on brown skin and how to treat it. Welcomed to all estheticians looking to diversify their clientele and expand their knowledge on melanated enriched skin.

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?

Being passionate is huge in anything you decide to do no matter what industry you are in. When you are passionate you will naturally put more effort, more interest and more time into it because it’s something you want. Your passion motivates you and drives you. You will want to expand on your craft because you are passionate about it, it doesn’t feel like a chore. I also advise everyone to be consistent! When you are in a service based industry you must be consistent! From marketing to learning, you must always stay on top of your business to elevate and grow. Being consistent helps you become more knowledgeable and marketable. People are more drawn to the person they see not the person who is easily forgotten. It doesn’t matter how good your work is if it’s not visible to your future client. Out of sight, out of mind! The last quality that I think is impactful is time management or having some type of routine. When you want to start a business you must be aware of time. Time is the most important currency we all have in life. Time is priceless, you cannot change it and you can’t get it back. Utilize your time to the best of your ability. Whether it be being productive towards your business, personal goals or your time during your appointments, time is important! You don’t get a second chance to make a first impression so use your time wisely!

A piece of advice to those early in their journey is to not be afraid to pivot! Do not be afraid to try again or try something new. Things will not always go as planned and we cannot always foresee the future but we must always be open to change and willing to adjust. It’s okay to rebrand and re discover yourself. I’ve worn many hats and I’ve finally found the right one with my journey in Esthetics, find the hat that fits you!

Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?

I am looking for leaders and educators in skincare specifically with vast knowledge in melanated enriched skin for my No Shade Event! From Dermatologist, Estheticians, Waxers and more I am looking for leaders and coaches who are looking to help educate and encourage people! Not only are we helping expand estheticians knowledge on skin tones, we are also offering marketing and content classes, q&a’s, live demos and more! If this sounds like an event you would like to participate in, feel free to reach out! No Shade is looking for Sponsors, Partnerships and Donations! You can connect with me on Instagram @NoShadeEvent

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