Amy Peterson

Can you share some of your background, and what inspired your passion for skincare?

I’ve always loved skincare and beauty products, even as a little girl. Then, I was a freshman in college, I was in a really bad car accident that left me with a ton of scarring all over my body. From then on, I was on mission to improve or correct the scarring as I was super self-conscious about it. I started looking into lasers and aesthetic options and got very excited. I knew this was the industry for me and changed my whole career path as a result. 

When I began my career in Seattle, WA with a world-renown plastic surgeon, I really wanted to learn everything and truly understand the “why” behind it.  This launched a secondary career as a clinical educator and medical science liaison for a lot of different device companies. This all led me to the practice I have today.  

With so many options to choose from, how do we decide on the right skincare products without feeling overwhelmed?

I think you have to look at a lot of different things when choosing brands because it’s a representation of who you are and what you’re trying to achieve. I chose from the elite newcomers that were potent and medical grade. This is not only my full-time job, but my hobby so I enjoy researching and trying out new lines. One of my secrets is that I have five people that I trust with different skin types that I trust their feedback on. 

What’s your take on drug store vs. luxury brand skincare products?

I think it’s all up to the manufacturing process, the ingredients, and a much higher potency of actives. Also, I don’t think anyone would feel comfortable going back to CVS to return something their skin reacted to. When you buy a product that we have recommended specifically for your there is service and we stand behind everything.

If US drugstores would be like the ones in Paris, this question might have a very different answer. For example, I really love La Roche Posay Anthelios SX Mexoryl sunscreen. 

What treatment or service do clients request most often?

Our Magic Hour facial is very popular as are Fotona 4D, Endospheres, and Clear & Brilliant.

What suggestions do you have for multi-role women who want great skin and don’t have time for a full skincare regimen?

I would suggest that they try to make the time for a bit of self care, but even a stripped-down routine can be a good one if you are using wonderful products. And try to do regular visits with your aesthetician because that’s when you’ll really see the difference. 

How do you practice self care ?

I don’t have as much time as I would like but I love to use my Peloton, get lost in a good podcast, a really good shopping spree at Home Goods, an amazing mani-pedi, and a good blow out before I start my work day. 

Can you share a personal and/or professional challenge you experienced and how you managed to get through it/them?

When I first moved to Miami I had a big following and practice in Seattle and within a span of two weeks my son was born, I moved to Miami and left my friends and practice behind and it was really difficult. It was a shock but culturally and emotionally. Everything was totally different and I felt really vulnerable. It took me a while to find my footing and I realized during that time that I was always so worried about everyone else and everything it made me realize I needed to start putting myself a little more 

What key life or career lessons have you learned in your journey as a multirole woman?

Bet on yourself. Stop measuring days by productivity and start measuring them by degree of presence. This actually opened the door to a better life and allowed me to, ultimately, be more present in the lives of my loved ones. I rebuilt my life even better. 

Also, I realize that I do best when I put the blinders on and stay in my lane.

How do you balance life/family/parenting and a thriving skincare practice? Any helpful tips you can share?

I will let you know when I figure it out! I have a little ritual every night where I lay my head down and I think if I did my best, and if I fell short, I’m ok with that and I’ll try harder the next day.  I really just try to be present in the moment and not think about EVERYTHING that has to be done. I just take it one step at a time and enjoy what I’m doing while I’m doing it whether it is at work or at home. 

Seasons in your life and right now I’m in the season of building my business and I’m ok with that. I’ve let go of the guilt of taking time to do that and it’s helped me find my true purpose. 

Elodie Messika

Elodie Messika: Founder/CEO Jolie TanStar
Instagram: @jolietanstar
Spray Tan Artist and owner of Jolie Tanstar Beauty 

Can you share some of your background and how you got into this industry?

What began as a side hustle quickly became my main Jam. I began my multi-role journey when I attended Business school in Paris and obtained a degree in Financial Management, quickly climbing the career ladder with positions at prestigious financial firms and International Banks. In true multi-role fashion, I  was also in a host of French TV shows, performed at theaters and clubs in Paris, sang at weddings and Bar Mitzvas, and composed music in my free time (the little that I had).  

The last few years brought challenges for my personal life and business. My mother’s illness and death forced me to face inevitable pains and difficulties of life and taught me a lot about myself – about happiness, well-being, and love for others. 

This path ultimately led me to move across the world and pursue my true somewhat hidden passion: Helping people feel beautiful. I do this in my salon in South Florida. The road is often long and difficult but I work hard everyday to lead and stay true to my mission!

What do clients request most at your salon?

Clients often request spray tanning. They feel thinner, healthier, more beautiful and ready for their cruises, photo shoots, or vacations. 

What treatments or services do you recommend and why ?

The skin is the largest organ in the body and we often forget to take adequate care of it. Skin issues often reflect deeper health problems beneath the surface. The skin is also the first to receive all external “aggressions” : burns, Irritations, Sores, Sun burn, Scars, Crusts, Bulbs…That’s why protecting the skin is  so important from the outside and inside. Washing and exfoliating the skin consistently and moisturizing drier areas can help protect the skin. Eating clean foods and exercising regularly all contribute to better skin. Taking care of your body is an ongoing process of dedication on the inside and outside. I see spray tanning as one piece of the puzzle and a way to avoid the sun and still look sun-kissed. It’s a healthy approach to looking good, especially with the organic formulas I use which are beneficial for the skin.

What are some beauty/skin tips that you recommend ?

Devote 10 minutes a day to your skin. A little bit goes a long way.

Can you share a personal and/or professional challenge you have faced, how you managed to get through it/them, and what lessons you learned?

Every day is a challenge : each person is different and has different skin, and I have to respect these differences and adjust my work to meet clients needs, whether it’s deciding what type of formula to use(pressure, distance, color…), or figuring out how to get to a client’s house when they are in need of an emergency tan (which happens more often than you might think). One big lesson I have learned is that we ALL have scars, and nobody is « perfect ». The best way is to be comfortable with your own body is to love yourself, and care for yourself.


How do you balance parenting and career? Can you share any tips that have helped you navigate being a multi-role woman?

I try to anticipate things that might come up- mostly the unexpected. For example, I will cook whenever I have time so there is food in the fridge in case I am home late one night and my kids are starving. I also assign tasks and chores to each of my kids which is a win-win because it helps me out and promotes their autonomy. Most importantly I always adopt a positive attitude and try to see every challenge as an opportunity.