NATASHA REHAN
Meet Maria Akhtar, a trailblazing aesthetician, beauty expert, and owner Of Smile & Dazzle Beauty Clinic whose passion for empowering individuals shines through her exceptional beauty mastery. With over eight years of extensive experience in the beauty industry, Maria has transformed countless lives through her innovative treatments and unwavering commitment to client satisfaction. From advanced teeth whitening to personalised skincare solutions, she offers a wide range of services tailored to enhance natural beauty and boost the confidence of her clients.
In this exclusive interview, Maria shares her inspiring journey, insights into the beauty industry, and the secrets behind her success at Smile & Dazzle. Join us as we delve into the captivating and inspirational world of aesthetics with Maria Akhtar.
● Can you tell us about your early life and what inspired you to pursue a career in aesthetics and beauty treatments?
My journey into the world of aesthetics and beauty has been both personal and inspiring. Even as a child, I was captivated by the power of beauty to transform. This passion has driven me to help others feel confident and empowered. I love celebrating diversity and exploring the creative possibilities this industry offers. Nothing makes me happier than seeing a smile on people’s faces and knowing I helped them find the best version of themselves.
● What challenges did you face when you first started in the beauty industry, and how did you overcome them?
When I first entered the beauty industry, the competition was intense. However, I believe there’s enough room for everyone to succeed. Embracing challenges is beneficial because they provide opportunities to grow, improve, and become stronger and smarter. To overcome these obstacles, we must continuously evolve and enhance our skills.
● You offer a range of services, including advanced teeth whitening. Can you tell us more about this service and what sets it apart?
What sets Smile & Dazzle apart is our unwavering dedication to our clients. We go the extra mile, accommodating early morning or late evening appointments to ensure everyone gets the care they need. Our personalised approach, combined with the latest techniques and products, guarantees outstanding results and a truly exceptional experience for each client. We pride ourselves on creating a welcoming and comfortable environment for our clients.
● What are some common misconceptions about beauty treatments that you often encounter, and how do you address them with your clients?
A common misconception is that aesthetic treatments are only for those wanting to fight the signs of ageing and that once they wear off, your skin looks worse than before. In reality, these treatments can significantly improve skin conditions like acne, rosacea, and hyperpigmentation. They also help build collagen, enhancing the overall health and appearance of your skin.
● How do you build trust and maintain strong relationships with your clients?
I make sure that my clients know they can count on me and trust me with their treatments. I am very transparent with my clients and honest. I am always available for them at any time after their treatments have been carried out if they have any questions or concerns.
● In your opinion, What is the key to providing exceptional customer service in the beauty industry?
I believe that the key to providing exceptional customer service in the beauty industry is being attentive to details. By closely observing your customers, you can gain a profound understanding of their preferences. This is particularly useful in the beauty and aesthetics industry, where tailored treatment and product recommendations can significantly enhance customer satisfaction.
● Do you have any exciting plans or new services you’re looking to introduce in the near future?
I’ve dedicated the past eight years to building Smile & Dazzle into what it is today. Looking ahead, we plan to introduce even more advanced treatments, techniques, and technologies. This will enable our clients to access top-tier, overseas-quality treatment right here in the UK without the need to travel abroad.
● What advice would you give to aspiring aestheticians who want to make a mark in the beauty industry?
My advice is to love what you do and genuinely enjoy helping people feel their best. Promote your work as much as possible, as in today’s digital landscape, marketing is the ultimate key. Sharing before-and-after pictures and videos is an excellent strategy. They showcase the quality of your work and the trust your clients have in you and serve as indirect client feedback. This approach helps build your reputation and attract more clients.