We recently sat down, well really laid down, with Kate of SKN for a little one-on-one time at her new digs in downtown Montclair and not only was it one of the most relaxing spa treatments ever, but the results were almost instant. Read on to learn more about Kate and what clients can expect at SKN.
About SKN
Skin Therapist and Owner, Kate Rose, wanted to create an experience for her customers completely different than that of the larger chains in the area, and she nailed it right on the head. We had the chance to get to know Kate and find out more about her aspiring business.
SKN offers facials, massages, waxing, and other skincare services that are customized to meet the specific needs of its clients. In short, no two patrons will have the same experience and that is what sets this spa apart from all the others.
The space, decked with palm trees, light colors, and a touch of metallic glam, has a reception area followed by a dimly lit treatment suite, perfectly suited for the feeling of zen about to transpire.
Read More: Where to Get a Massage in Montclair
A Chat With Kate
Montclair Girl: How did you get into skincare?
Kate Rose: I have always been into self-care and beauty. When I was a little girl, I would always play with my Fisher-Price makeup set and pretend to do makeup and hair on my mother and other family members.
MG: What was the inspiration behind starting your own business?
KR: After high school, I attended the University of Rhode Island and after 1 year, I knew that college simply wasn’t for me. I was broke and hopeless and I didn’t know which career path I should take. I was looking for a receptionist job and eventually was hired at Sahana Spa in Montclair. I absolutely loved working there. The atmosphere was one of a kind and I got along with the entire staff.
As I grew closer with the estheticians, I realized this was going to be my future-go to skin school and start working as a hands-on therapist instead of as a receptionist. So I did it. I attended Dermalogica Academy in NYC and after 10 months, I earned my Esthetics License. I was so excited and determined to be great and connect with an endless number of clients.
Fast forward 6 years, I have gained an amazing clientele, which relied on me religiously for their skin treatments. It is one of the best feelings to have these clients put so much trust into my hands and knowledge. Not to mention they are all so pleasant and friendly! Everything was almost perfect. I didn’t feel the connection with the spa anymore. The owners had changed and so did the vibe and motivation. This is when I thought to myself, how great it would be to open my own place and do everything my way. For months, it was all I thought about. Then in early 2017, I started looking at spaces to rent in Montclair. When I found one that was within my budget, I shook hands with my realtor and said “let’s do this”.
During the next few months, I started buying equipment and furniture and by May 2017 I had built my own facial boutique from scratch! Since opening SKN in May, I have exceeded my expectations.
MG: In your opinion, what’s the best skincare tip you give to your clients?
KR: I can’t say I have one specific skincare tip that I give, because every face I see is completely different. My main focuses are diet, stress levels, and skincare ingredients. I analyze each client’s skin and tell them to tweak something if I think it’s harming their skin in any way.
MG: What’s your favorite treatment right now?
KR: My favorite treatment is the 60-minute facial with microdermabrasion add-on. After just one treatment, the skin is completely revived. It is truly amazing and my most popular service booked.
MG: What can we expect from your business in the future?
KR: I’m not quite sure what my future will be, but right now SKN is taking off like a rocket. I hope to expand after a few years, possibly adding more therapists and services like massage, microneedling, and eyelashes. This industry is constantly evolving, so within a few years, there may be some crazy new treatment that everybody wants. What excites me most about my craft, is my desire to keep growing and improving.
And the results, truly, were instant. After 60 minutes, we left feeling rejuvenated, fresh, and relaxed.
Contact Info
The hours of SKN are Wednesday through Friday 10AM – 8PM, Saturday 10AM – 7PM, and Sunday 10AM – 4PM.
If you’d like more information, visit their website here and book an appointment online or follow SKN on Instagram here.
