Auckland’s About Face beauty destination has always been on the pulse of skin health. Marianna Glucina, the brand's brains, is its owner and founder. Editor Trudi Brewer finds a beauty trailblazer who doesn't follow trends—she sets them.
Marianna Glucina owner of About Face Clinics in Auckland.
You are coming up to 40 years in the beauty industry; what do you still love the most?
Knowing you've helped someone and given them confidence, for instance, clearing someone’s acne or reducing pigmentation and fine lines that they didn’t like about themselves when they looked in the mirror daily. There’s nothing like seeing them walk out the door with their head held high and a huge smile, knowing you have made that difference.
What changes have made the most impact on your clients?
Two things. The first was cosmeceutical grade skincare. In the 90s, AHA revolutionised the skin care industry, softening the skin and removing excess build-up. Then, clinical research proved that potent Vitamin A will reverse ageing. Along with high-strength vitamins A and C and antioxidants, skincare products can significantly change the skin. The proper skincare delivers exceptional results in reversing the ravages of time, and it is possible to turn back the clock. Seventy per cent of all results will occur using the proper home care daily. Second was the introduction of technology, namely IPL. These machines can reduce facial redness and remove pigment, dark patches, and unwanted hair, which is life-changing for many people. Then, in 2010, we saw the laser's emergence; today, we can treat acne scarring, refine pores and reduce fine lines and wrinkles. This was not possible 30 years ago. Today, there are so many options for people to improve the quality of their skin.
How has being in business for that length of time changed you?
On a positive note, being successful in business has resulted in me having a lot more confidence. I was probably quite shy, and even though I present as outgoing, it doesn’t come naturally to me to talk to strangers comfortably. Being in business for nearly 40 years has given me the resilience to overcome obstacles and deal with situations I would never have expected. You learn to depend on yourself and trust you can do the job. On the flip side, it has made me more serious than I would have been and more stressed than I am. When you know that a team of 70 rely upon you to make the right decisions and lead them, it’s a responsibility I don’t take lightly.
Where do you get your inspiration?
Not from one person but from a collection of individuals over the years. Training with Jacques Courtin-Clarins in Paris in my 20s made a real impression. Leaders like Richard Branson – I love his philosophy on how he cares for the people around him within his business. My guru has always been author Stephen Covey's Seven Habits of Highly Effective People. Women who have pioneered any industry, such as Estèe Lauder and Helena Rubenstein, inspire me. In fashion, Karen Walker and Dame Trelise Cooper have taken their brands into many different arenas but have not lost sight of who they are.
What are your favourite beauty Goals?
Bold brows frame the face and can look defined and strong yet natural and not overdone. Collagen induction and dermal needling therapies instead of spot rejuvenation treatments targeting just one line or area of concern. Today, women are more conscious of what they put on their skin and in their bodies, which resonates with me as I have always had a holistic approach and believed that beauty comes from within. A healthy person who lives well, rests well, and sleeps well will always radiate natural beauty.
What sets About Face apart from other skin clinics?
Our people and attention to detail. I always ensure our teams are friendly, approachable, highly trained and have the best equipment, skincare, and options for treatments and injectables. About Face skin experts want to be the best in their field. We try to look at the skin in 3D. We take the best ingredients across several product ranges and the most effective technology and bring them together for a personalised plan to deliver exceptional results. One of our values is imparting knowledge and education. No matter what service you are coming in for, you will leave with a personalised prescription covering a treatment plan, product recommendation, and lifestyle advice. Even though we pride ourselves on results-based treatments, it’s vital that all our clients also receive a good dose of pampering. Women are time-poor, and that element of touch is so important. As owner-operators in a family business, we believe this attention to detail would not be possible as a franchise.
What has been your career high to date?
I am very proud of my decision and our success in taking our brand into shopping malls. We were the first skin clinics in New Zealand to open in malls. It irked me that the pharmacy chains and department stores took most of the skincare sales, yet as qualified skin therapists, we were the most equipped to prescribe home care. Pharmacy staff don’t have my team's training and experience; I wanted to fix this and put beauty therapy on the map for all women. Another achievement has been the recognition of being voted by the public as New Zealand's Best Beauty Destination and Best Facial in Best in Beauty Awards for several years.
What is your advice for women wanting to embark on a new business venture?
Be prepared to work hard. You will never work harder when you work for yourself. It isn’t easy to switch off. The business is always on your mind; it's hard to switch off your thoughts even if you manage to turn off the technology. You need to have many people skills or surround yourself with those who do because managing people is a pivotal part of any business’s growth and success. So, if you don’t enjoy working with people, don’t do it. Being a great technician is not enough. You also need resilience when things don’t go as planned so you can hang in there and work your way out of it - and not give up.
What would you tell your 20-year-old self?
At 20, I hadn’t found my passion, beauty therapy. Find your passion because it never feels like work once you have it. That’s why those 30 years have flown by so fast for me. Secondly, be kind to yourself. I think most 20-year-olds feel like they aren’t enough, whereas with age comes acceptance.
About Face founder Marianna Glucina.
What keeps you so grounded?
My husband and children. When you become a mum, you have other people to look after. Being grateful also helps keep me grounded. Yoga, walking, and my lifelong girlfriends keep me sane. It’s no secret that I enjoy health retreats where I have the time to escape my thoughts and relax.
What's your best beauty tip?
Always wear a smile and lipstick (plus do your brows!) Beauty radiates from the inside out. Eat well, sleep well and be confident in who you are. It’s not about perfection; the odd line on your face tells the story of your life, so they shouldn’t be erased.
A New Zealand artist.