Kimberly Ihearahu: Providing Top-tier, Result-driven Wellness Treatment @ Perfecta Aesthetics

For Kimberly Chidera Ihearahu, her life’s passion has always been holistic wellness. Even though she initially ventured into events planning, she soon found her way back to calling. As Chief Executive Officer/Founder of Perfecta Aesthetic and Wellness Clinic, her strategic directive is to ensure dedicated and result-driven solutions 

for advanced skincare and wellness treatments. In this interview with Chiemelie Ezeobi, she revealed that Perfecta, which also has a sister Body Wax company “Perfecta smooth” as the first “wax company” and “home wax kit” company in Nigeria, treats client’s safety, value, comfort and confidentiality with topmost priority. Essentially, her goal is to provide top-tier treatments that foster transformation in the ever-evolving skincare industry

What is your focus at Perfecta? 

We are focused on helping women and men who desire a smooth part to achieving their wellness and skin goals. We believe you can find your way to “as Perfect a skin as possible”. Our approach to skin care is “you” holding your hands and understanding your skin from the inside out. Our treatments and services are backed by research, education and high quality medical grade technology.

We aim to provide and deliver high quality treatments that sets off transformations in a flourishing industry and our goal is to give you the transformation you deserve, revive your health and wellness as well as restore confidence in your skin and you.

How did the journey to Perfecta start for you? 

We started two years ago, so we’re relatively new, but we have a clear vision. Our inspiration stems from the desire to help people who lack confidence due to various skin concerns or problems. This is the gap we aim to address. Whether you’re a man or a woman, our goal is to assist you in reclaiming your skin health and boosting your confidence through improved skin care practices.

So prior to your incursion into the skincare world, what were you doing? 

Prior to starting this venture, I was involved in the events industry, managing an event staffing agency. The transition to aesthetics might seem unexpected, but for me, it feels like destiny. It’s hard to explain, but I truly believe it’s a calling. While I initially aspired to pursue a career in medicine, particularly as a skin doctor or aesthetician, my passion for this field is undeniable. Interestingly, even as a child, people would often associate me with medical professions whenever they saw me in different church settings.

Despite my Catholic upbringing and regularly attending church with my mother, there was a recurring theme of being associated with medical instruments like a stethoscope. I can’t pinpoint exactly how I transitioned from these experiences, but at some juncture, I began to harbor a deep aversion towards it. After completing secondary school, my passion for medicine dwindled. However, as they say, when something is your true calling, divine intervention can steer you back regardless of the detours. This is why I often tell people that I cannot explain how I entered this profession, but it undeniably feels like my destined path, and I am fervently passionate about it.

How long did it take you to retrace to your calling? 

It took me six to seven years to rediscover and fully embrace my calling.

Where were you trained?

I began attending aesthetics and dermatology schools in Nigeria. Additionally, I pursued online training with schools abroad in the US, and I am scheduled to further my studies in November in the US as well. For four years, I worked in the events industry until one morning, I made a spontaneous decision to register at a highly reputable aesthetics school in Lekki, Lagos. Upon enrolling in the cosmetic science class, I found my passion reignited, and since then, I haven’t looked back.

How has your journey been over the past two years?

The journey thus far has been more than just good; it’s been fulfilling. However, it hasn’t been entirely smooth sailing. Yet, when you’re passionate about something, work doesn’t feel like work. Instead, it’s akin to playing with your best friends every day. 

Meeting clients feels like spending time with close companions, and though there’s undoubtedly work involved, it doesn’t feel burdensome. Aesthetic school provides a foundation, but the true learning begins when you start working directly with clients. Every individual’s skin reacts differently, presenting unique challenges that require creative solutions.

Despite the challenges, the journey has been rewarding. It’s about how you navigate and overcome obstacles that truly defines your expertise. So, while it hasn’t been an effortless journey, it’s been immensely worthwhile.

How have the reviews been so far? 

The reviews I’ve received from my clients so far have been incredibly positive. Starting small in a modest space, I initially offered only waxing services due to limited resources. However, even with this humble beginning, I began receiving praise from clients, including influencers. One notable instance was when an influencer I had treated shared a review of her experience on Snapchat, sparking further interest and positive feedback.

Many of my clients have been with me for over two years, indicating that I must be doing something right. Despite being an introvert and feeling anxious around people, the trust my clients place in me is humbling. Approximately 80 per cent of our reviews reflect satisfaction, though I recognise that it’s impossible to please everyone. Our focus is on delivering tangible results, and we’re committed to being a results-driven aesthetic service.

Our goal is to consistently achieve reviews in the range of 95-98 per cent reflecting our dedication to excellence and client satisfaction.

Do you often get referrals?

Our Instagram following isn’t extensive, so the majority of our clients come through word-of-mouth referrals. Despite the common belief that a strong social media presence is essential, our satisfied clients serve as our best advocates. Over the past two years, I’ve witnessed a steady stream of new clients who were referred by others.

This reliance on word-of-mouth recommendations speaks volumes about the quality of service we provide. While social media may not be our primary source of clients, the consistent flow of referrals demonstrates that our work speaks for itself.

What are your expansion plans? 

Our expansion efforts didn’t begin recently; they’ve been in progress for over a year and a half. This expansion serves as an introduction to our services for a broader audience. We’re committed to showcasing the range of treatments we offer, rather than simply opening new locations without context.

In addition to our core services, such as chemical peels and micro-needling, we provide advanced treatments like stretch mark treatments and medical cosmetics. We also offer services aimed at enhancing overall health and wellness, such as PRP therapy and IV therapy. These procedures are carried out by certified registered nurses, ensuring the highest standard of care.

Have you ever experienced moments where you thought, “I shouldn’t have pursued this line of business”?

One day, I confided in a colleague from aesthetics school about my decision to close down my business and relocate. Running a business in Nigeria presents numerous challenges, particularly regarding pricing and restocking. Clients who were accustomed to a certain price suddenly faced increases, reflecting the harsh economic realities. Despite investing heavily in advanced technology and ongoing education, ensuring top-notch results, I felt disheartened.

In Nigeria, even a celebrity like Genevieve would ultimately be judged on the outcomes she delivers. Popularity alone isn’t enough to sustain a business; clients prioritise tangible results above all else. I’ve come to realise that regardless of one’s status or fame, clients prioritise the transformation of their skin and the value they receive. As an entrepreneur, understanding this fundamental desire for results guides my approach to business.

I invest heavily in various aspects – financially, physically, and mentally. One crucial aspect is our LED technology; Dermalux LED is renowned globally for its effectiveness. Stretch marks are a common concern, and many believe creams or lasers alone can eliminate them. However, creams can’t address the underlying tear in the skin, and some lasers may not provide satisfactory results.

To tackle this issue, we’ve partnered NUE Conceal, based in Atlanta, US, offering two treatments: NUE Stretch Mark Revision (NSR) and NUE Camouflage. NSR remodels deep stretch marks, stimulating collagen production for scar healing. Camouflage, on the other hand, disguises old, wide stretch marks by matching the skin’s color, providing visible results after just one session.

While results may vary, even a single session can yield noticeable improvements. Additionally, our approach involves a combination of treatments, such as stretch mark revision followed by camouflage if necessary, to achieve optimal results.

Every aspect of our practice, from LED technology to our aesthetic pen/device

is chosen for its effectiveness.

We prioritise investing in cutting-edge technology, staff training, and client satisfaction. Our goal is for every client to leave with transformed skin, enabling them to confidently share their positive experiences with others.

What are the challenges facing the business? 

In Nigeria, one of the significant challenges facing businesses is the issue of double taxation and unreliable electricity supply. However, the primary challenge we encounter consistently is with our electricity supply. We heavily rely on diesel generators to power our operations due to frequent power outages. Running multiple air conditioners throughout the day adds to the already substantial expense of fuel.

This situation prompts the question: Have we passed on these increased operating costs to our clients, and if so, has it deterred them? Truthfully, we’ve only adjusted our prices once since we started, despite fluctuations in the exchange rate. However, given the current circumstances, we’re compelled to revise our pricing structure. 

To soften the impact on our clients, we’re offering a limited-time promotion with a 15 per cent discount on services. We encourage clients to take advantage of this offer today, as prices will be adjusted upward thereafter. It’s a necessary step to ensure the sustainability of our business while maintaining transparency and fairness with our clientele.

What unique aspect of your service or product do people often mention as your catchment area, distinguishing you from others in the market?

In Nigeria, I’m the sole provider of a highly effective stretch mark treatment. This treatment surpasses what others offer in terms of effectiveness and innovation. Additionally, I’m the exclusive practitioner of the NUE Conceal treatment in Nigeria. This unique approach sets us apart from other providers in the country. We are also the first clinic to carry this type of procedure/ treatment that effectively conceal not only stretchmarks but surgical scars, hypertrophic scars and also vitiligo. 

Do you provide home services?

We initially ventured into waxing services under the brand names Perfecta Aesthetics and Perfecta Smooth. Perfecta Smooth specifically focused on waxing services. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I personally discovered a preference for waxing over shaving, leading me to explore the creation of my own wax. We developed a wax kit that we intended to distribute through Ebeano Supermarket and other interested supermarkets once we obtained our NAFDAC numbers.

Home waxing kits are not readily available in Nigeria, unlike shaving cream. Our kits are not only convenient but also aesthetically pleasing and easy to use. They offer a complete waxing solution, including post-waxing care with vegan-friendly ingredients sourced abroad. While financial constraints halted production temporarily, we plan to resume this venture in the future.

Where do you envision your company being in the next few years? What are your long-term goals and aspirations for the growth and development of your business?

Our goal is to provide top-tier treatments that foster transformation in an ever-evolving industry. While some may offer similar services, we strive to stand out by consistently delivering exceptional quality and results. 

Looking ahead, I envision expanding Perfecta Aesthetics both within Nigeria and internationally, with branches in various states and countries. Additionally, I aspire to establish a robust skincare community in Nigeria, akin to those in the USA, where aestheticians can collaborate, share challenges, and find solutions.

Currently, I’m part of a small group of aestheticians with whom I share experiences and concerns. Together, we aim to address issues like skin bleaching and harmful cream mixing prevalent in Nigeria. As aesthetics gains prominence in Nigeria, I believe fostering a supportive community of professionals will be crucial for our collective growth and success.

Do you believe in collaborations? 

I’m enthusiastic about collaborating with others and readily refer my clients to trusted partners for services I don’t provide. Additionally, we’re on the verge of introducing laser treatments, completing our comprehensive range of services. 

When you visit Perfecta Clinic, expect personalised support as we embark on your transformation journey together. I prioritise building strong relationships with my clients, aiming not just to be a practitioner but also a trusted confidant. 

Maintaining confidentiality is paramount, ensuring you feel comfortable discussing any skin concerns or conditions. I stay abreast of the latest advancements in technology and commit to continuous learning to deliver the best outcomes for you. Join me, and let’s embark on this transformative journey together.