Today, we’re talking to Kimjoy Long, esthetician at Spruce Apothecary in Seattle. Kimjoy specializes in sugar hair removal and offers high-quality holistic skincare and green beauty services.  Through her training to become an esthetician, she realized many beauty and skincare treatments are not designed with the needs of women of color in mind. She strives to provide products and services that are safe for melanated skin.  Kimjoy is a mother of three who is passionate about helping women, especially mothers, prioritize their own self-care. As an esthetician, she not only cares for clients’ skin concerns but strives to cultivate a loving safe space for them to thrive in.   In this episode, we talk about… Why you should consider visiting an esthetician.  Unique skin care considerations for Black women and other women of color.  How the beauty education space overlooks the needs of those with melanated skin.  Creating space for self-care as a mother.    RESOURCES: View Kimjoy’s services and book an appointment with her at Spruce Apothecary (Seattle area) Follow Kimjoy on Instagram: @lovesprucekimjoy Follow Spruce Apothecary on Instagram: @spruce.apothecary Balanced Black Girl Partners: BLK+GRN | Use code BBG20 for 20% off at blkgrn.com Black Girl Sunscreen | Use code BBG20 for 20% off at blackgirlsunscreen.com Methodology | Use code BALANCEDBLACKGIRL30 for 30% off your first Methodology shipment If you like this episode, please leave a rating and review on iTunes. Keep in touch with Les on Instagram @balancedles, follow the show @balancedblackgirlpodcast, and join the Balanced Black Girl Podcast Community on Facebook. PS: If you really want to take your year to the next level, snag our free glow-up guide. This free guide has everything you need to implement a self-care practice that works. You’ll get daily journal worksheets, inspiring quotes, affirmations, and a bonus workout. Get the guide HERE.