As part of our third annual By Women series—which spotlights the best women-owned products and companies—we’re talking to Joanna Czech, a celebrity aesthetician with three studios across the United States and her own eponymous skin care line. With this series, we’re committed to giving female founders who own 51% or more of their business a platform. This not only allows them to introduce their brilliant products to a wide and potentially new audience, but it also helps you—the discerning shopper—discover the best stuff out there.
Before the trendy facial studios we know and love now, there was Joanna Czech. Originally starting her career as an aesthetician in Poland, Czech moved to New York more than 35 years ago, where she attracted A-list clientele through methods like deep tissue massage and the use of LED light and ultrasound; all techniques she’s considered a pioneer in. Beyond her experience as a career facialist (“My first and only job has been as an aesthetician,” Czech tells Glamour), she also expanded her skin empire with the launch of Joanna Czech Skincare in 2021.
“At 23, I launched my first business in Poland, not giving the timing much thought,” Czech says of her career beginnings. “Later, in the United States, my work was primarily with private clients or on movie sets, so I didn’t really have the structure of full-time employment. By 2002 or 2003, I felt a desire to create something more organized to share my skincare methods with a bigger audience.”
Stepping into her lower Manhattan studio (one of three total—you can also see her in Beverly Hills and Dallas), you’re immediately transported into a zen, chic, and invitingly warm space. Neutral woods and cream-colored walls surround you, letting your eye travel to the Instagram famous Hästens bed where she offers treatments. But Czech’s skincare studio-slash-boutique isn’t just nice to look at. It hosts a long list of celebrities who trust her with their skin before high profile red carpet events such as the Oscars and Met Gala, including Kim Kardashian, Jennifer Aniston, and Hailey Bieber.
Czech recognizes her influence, citing her own ambition as the key to her success. “To be honest, I’ve navigated my career through my own intuition and creativity,” she says. “As an entrepreneur, I’ve largely formed my own path, often going against the wind. My constant curiosity drives me to learn and explore.”
Below, Czech gives us a glimpse into her world, from her morning routine to her best advice for women looking to start their own business.
Why did you feel like it was a good time to launch your company when you did?
Having arrived in the United States 36 years ago, I noticed disconnect in skincare services, where makeup was prioritized over skin health. I believe that healthy skin begins with client education. While the responsibility of having my name attached to a business naturally brought pressure, my focus was always to give the best possible service to each client. That drive remains with me, even with every new client I see today.
What’s one key piece of advice you’d give to other women looking to start their own business?
Owning a business is demanding; it’s a lot of hard work. My advice is to keep it small, this way you can control the quality of service. My focus and motivation has always been on individual client care and education, rather than financial gain.
Joanna Czech Skincare The Cleansing Wipes
Joanna Czech
Revolve
Moda Operandi
Joanna Czech Skincare The C+ Serum
Joanna Czech
Revolve
Neiman Marcus
What’s your typical morning routine?
I wake up at 7:30 a.m. My typical morning begins with coffee, followed by avocado and scrambled eggs on sourdough toast for breakfast. Then, I FaceTime my mother in Poland. When I’m not traveling, I try to exercise three to four times a week. The rest of my morning is filled with business meetings or client appointments depending on day of the week.
How do you take your coffee?
Espresso, particularly Nespresso, served in my Astier de Villatte coffee cups.
How do you typically deal with rejection in your field?
My response to rejection has evolved. In my 30s, I was more sensitive and wanted approval from others. Now, I pay less attention to it. Fortunately, I haven’t experienced much rejection. However, when I do, I acknowledge the initial tightness in my chest. I address feedback by communicating and examining the issue. For business-related concerns, I strive to identify the root cause and find a solution.
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What’s your go-to work outfit?
My comfortable work attire often includes pieces from The Row. I’m The Row hoe! Sorry! I wear sneakers, stylish boots, sandals, and heels. I’ve done it all—I love shoes. I typically wear comfortable pants, paired with a tee or cashmere shirts and sweaters. My personal style is understated, casually elegant with a unique edge to make it my own.
Explain the moment you realized okay, I might actually be successful…
The affirmation of others regarding my success was a key indicator.
What’s your go-to thank you gift?
For thank you gifts, I often choose Astier de Villatte dishes, such as tea cups, vases, or plates. I think others would enjoy their beauty and quality. I also enjoy gifting blankets from Brunello Cucinelli or Loro Piana, and beautiful candles.
Finish this sentence: People would be happier doing their work if…
People would be happier at work if they loved what they do. Passion transforms the quality of work and reduces the level of tiredness you might feel dragging yourself to work.
If you weren’t in your current career, you’d be a…
If I weren’t in my current career, I’d be a doctor, likely a surgeon or emergency physician.
Catharine Malzahn is the contributing associate beauty editor at Glamour.
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