Meet Anna Nations | Aesthetician and Laser Technician in training

We had the good fortune of connecting with Anna Nations and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Anna, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Growing up, I struggled with a number of health concerns— severe skin breakouts being one of the symptoms. For me, this took a major toll on my confidence and overall mental health. I can most definitely attest to the hardship of not feeling comfortable in your own skin. I saw dermatologists and tried many skin products and felt helpless when I was not seeing the results I wanted. It wasn’t until I saw a licensed aesthetician that I began to gain some hope. I then went on to do my own research and then made the decision to turn it into my career. For me, it was so much more than the treatment I was receiving that helped me. It was about being in a safe space where I felt like I could be myself and not be ashamed of the way I looked.
When I came to that realization, I wanted more than anything to be able to create that same feeling and safe space for others. I wanted to be able to make others feel empowered and restore their inner confidence. My thought process is “if I have the chance to help someone else, then I am going to take it”.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
As aesthetics is becoming a large growing industry, it is important for me to distinguish myself from others. For me, this would come from my personal experiences dealing with numerous skin conditions and acne, as well as health conditions that have pushed me to change my lifestyle. I am now very dedicated to living a healthy life and eager to learn more about how it all connects to the skin. The extra research and knowledge I have gained gives me a unique perspective to be able to connect and relate to the client who may be dealing with similar concerns. I have true compassion for anyone who may be struggling and I am excited to use what I have learned to help others. I have had many ups and downs with balance and figuring out the right path, but with trial and error and taking a few risks, I have grown and found my true passion. In the aesthetics industry, caring for and assisting clients to make them feel like their best selves is a part of the daily job. This would help make a difference in improving people’s overall image, self-confidence, and health. My goal is to educate local clients and through social media on all things health and wellness and how this pertains to the skin. This can be empowering to many people as acne and skin concerns can be detrimental to one’s mental health. So many struggle with insecurities that come with appearances, especially with the rise in social media. This is damaging to newer generations who strive for perfection in the way they look. Creating an accepting and caring environment can be a truly therapeutic experience for all to help battle the daily stressors of life. As fewer people experience physical touch regularly, simply receiving a service is an effective form of healing.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Toca Madera in Scottsdale is always a go-to for visitors who come to Arizona because of the fun environment and great food! I would most likely spend time at the pool, shopping, and doing something in nature with a good view of the sunset.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to dedicate my shoutout to the Southwest Institute of Natural Aesthetics because I would not have a community to learn and thrive in without them.

Instagram: anationsbeauty

Linkedin: Anna Nations