Meet Nika | Business Owner | Licensed Aesthetician & Acne Expert

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

Hi Nika, where are your from? We’d love to hear about how your background has played a role in who you are today?
I’m a first generation American, my family immigrated to the United States from Ukraine. Not knowing a word of English looking for a better life and trying to escape a deeply difficult environment, they raised me to honor our culture, pursue my passions wholeheartedly, and continuously expand my knowledge in whatever path I chose. I was born and raised in Los Angeles, California. I grew up in Sherman Oaks, and it’s incredibly meaningful to now run my Aesthetics practice in the very place I’ve always called home.

Growing up, I was surrounded by strong, resilient, and hardworking individuals, especially my parents and grandparents. They instilled in me the importance of dedication, kindness, and always showing up for others. Education was a core value in our household, and for me, completing Esthetic school wasn’t the beginning or the end—it was part of a much larger journey.

My career in beauty began with makeup artistry, where I had the opportunity to work on movie sets, runways, photoshoots, and private events. That early exposure sparked my passion and gave me a strong foundation in creativity and self-expression. It also fueled my ambition, strengthened my discipline, and deepened my respect for continuous personal and professional growth. That experience has shaped both my values and my approach to business.

Creativity has always been central to who I am, whether through baking, dancing, painting, or eventually, beauty. I was drawn to the way beauty can enhance ones features and bring joy, but over time, I felt a deeper calling: I didn’t just want to help people look good in the moment, I wanted to help them feel confident with their bare skin. That shift led me to Esthetics.

Once I became licensed, I gained hands on experience and took advanced courses, immersing myself into the medical Aesthetics world, working in med spas, and dermatology clinics. These experiences provided me with a strong basis in skin health and a deep appreciation for the level of care and professionalism clients deserve.

However, my passion for general Esthetics was not enough. I was drawn to the challenges of acne and deep skincare concerns, which led me to specialize in corrective skincare. I am a firm believer that preventive skincare is far more effective and cost efficient than corrective skincare, which fuels my approach to long term skin health.

I took a leap of faith and opened my practice during a time of great uncertainty. While it wasn’t easy, the experience taught me adaptability, and the value of building meaningful, trust based relationships with my clients.

What should our readers know about your business?
Nika Aesthetics is so much more than skincare, it’s about connection, confidence, and care. I specialize in acne healing, anti-aging, melasma, rosacea, and every treatment is completely tailored to the individual. Skincare isn’t one size fits all, and that’s exactly why I take a customized, results-driven approach. My goal isn’t just to treat the skin but to really understand it, what it needs, what it’s lacking, and how we can address those concerns together.

What sets my practice apart is the level of attention, trust, and connection I build with every client. Once you’re my client, we’re in it together. Whether you need a check-in between appointments, want to adjust your routine, or just need a little support, I’m here. That bond is what makes my work so meaningful for me.

I’ve invested in advanced education to better understand ingredients and how the skin functions so I can create true, lasting change for my clients. There’s so much overwhelming and misleading information in the skincare world, and unfortunately, a lot of people fall into the trap of believing marketing over science. I’m here to cut through that noise and offer honest, intentional guidance that’s backed by both knowledge and experience.

One thing I always say is: consistency is key. There are no magic fixes, real, lasting results take time, commitment, and trust in both the process and the plan. I’m here to guide that journey and celebrate every win with my clients along the way.

What melts my heart the most is seeing someone’s confidence return. Witnessing a client go from feeling defeated by their skin to walking out glowing, that’s why I do what I do. Acne, pigmentation, texture, or rosacea doesn’t make you any less beautiful. Your skin is your forever mask, and I want everyone to feel proud walking in it.

Starting this business wasn’t easy, I opened my doors right as the pandemic hit, and there were a lot of hard moments before I ever saw small wins. But I never gave up, I stayed rooted in my purpose, kept learning, showing up, and eventually, things began to grow.

People often have this surface level idea of what Estheticians do, like we just apply a few creams, give a relaxing face massage, and send clients on their way with cucumbers on their eyes. But the truth is, there’s so much more depth to this work, it’s science, strategy, ongoing education, and emotional care. I’m not just treating skin, I’m helping people heal, rebuild their confidence, and understand their skin on a deeper level. That’s where the true transformation happens.

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.
If my best friend were visiting from out of town, I’d make sure they had the best time soaking up everything I love about this city. We’d start with a day at Disneyland because… duh. It’s the perfect mix of nostalgia, fun, and magic. The week would be a mix of bougie and chill, like dinner at my favorite sushi spot, where the sushi is unmatched, lazy brunches at my favorite caf’e because the green tea boba there is everything, and a cute rooftop moment somewhere to catch a sunset and just feel cute.

We’d definitely carve out a full spa day of self-care, my absolute favorite kind of day filled with pampering. Nothing beats a glow up day with your bestie! Then, we’d hit the outlets for some retail therapy because honestly, there’s nothing like finding cute fits at a great deal. Of course, we’d make a trip to my favorite spot in Newport Beach. If you know me, you know it’s my go-to for melting away all the stress. It’s calm, beautiful, and has the perfect vibe to reset everything.

We’d also sneak in a mini getaway, something close but still a vibe. Maybe wine tasting and pool time in Santa Barbara or a cozy stay in Palm Springs with matching robes and way too many snacks. It’s all about the escape, even if it’s just a quick one.

The rest of the week would be a mix of beach days in Malibu, hiking, exploring boutiques, vintage bookstores, checking out something artsy or creative in the city, and a fun night out on the town, whether it’s dancing, trying a new restaurant, or grabbing drinks at a cool spot. But honestly, the best part would just be spending time together, laughing, recharging, and making memories we’ll talk about forever.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I wouldn’t be where I am today without the unwavering support of the incredible people in my life. First and foremost, my family deserves the biggest shoutout. My parents and grandparents sacrificed so much to give me a better life, and their strength, work ethic, and love continue to inspire me every day. They taught me how to stay grounded, work hard, and lead with compassion.

Professionally, I’ve been lucky to learn from mentors and educators who shaped not just my technical skills, but my purpose. From Esthetics school to clinical settings, each one left a lasting impact on how I approach my business with care, integrity, and presence.

Lastly, I have to shoutout my clients. Their trust means everything to me. Building genuine relationships with them, and being a part of their skincare journeys and personal lives, is one of the most fulfilling aspects of my career. Their loyalty, vulnerability, and appreciation are what keep me inspired and committed to growing every day.

This path hasn’t always been easy, but the people in my corner have made it deeply meaningful and for that, I will forever treasure it.

Website: https://www.nikaaesthetics.com

Instagram: @nikaaesthetician

Facebook: @nikaaesthetician

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/nika-aesthetics-los-angeles-3?osq=Nika+Aesthetics