For over three decades, Julie Jacobs has been a force in the beauty industry, pioneering innovative treatments and products that blend skincare and hair removal into one seamless experience. As the founder of Hair Bare Pro, Julie’s journey from a passionate esthetician to a business owner has been marked by determination, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to helping beauty professionals stand out in a competitive industry.
A Journey Fueled by Passion
Julie’s career in beauty began in 1993, at the age of 28, after her children had all started school. Her passion for skincare and makeup led her to various roles, from working as a laser practitioner in clinics to training professionals in microdermabrasion, oxygen therapy, and microcurrent technologies. After opening her own clinic, Ice Clinic, Julie brought cutting-edge treatments like Botox, fillers, and laser hair removal to Beckenham, making her the first in the area to offer such services.
However, it was in this clinic that Julie noticed a gap in the market. Many of her clients had vellus (peach fuzz) facial hair, which laser treatments couldn’t address. Fueled by a desire to find a solution, Julie embarked on a journey of research and testing, leading to the creation of Hair Bare Pro—a product that not only removes hair but also leaves the skin smooth and glowing.
What Sets Hair Bare Pro Apart?
Hair Bare Pro is not your typical hair removal system. Julie’s innovative approach combines hair removal with skincare, offering a unique treatment that provides both smooth, hair-free skin and a radiant complexion. As Julie explains:
“With Hair Bare Pro, you can perform a hair removal treatment while also offering the results of a skin-smoothing, glowing facial. It’s a 2-in-1 solution that few other brands can offer, making it a niche product for salon owners looking to differentiate themselves.”
This dual-functionality sets Hair Bare Pro apart from competitors in both the skincare and hair removal markets, offering salon owners a unique opportunity to provide a comprehensive, results-driven treatment to their clients.
A Philosophy Rooted in Support and Creativity
At the core of Hair Bare Pro is a philosophy of support and creativity. Julie is passionate about empowering estheticians by offering them treatments and products that not only enhance their skills but also boost their confidence and income. She encourages beauty professionals to make the treatments their own, tailoring them to fit their clients’ needs and setting themselves apart from the competition.
“Hair Bare Pro really pushes estheticians to be creative and make the treatments bespoke to them so they can stand out from the crowd and shine,” Julie says.
Hero Treatments and Products
Among the most popular treatments at Hair Bare Pro is the Naked Glow Alkaline Facial, a 3-in-1 service that removes hair, brightens and smooths the skin, and includes a relaxing massage. Clients love the comprehensive nature of this treatment, which truly delivers on all fronts.
In terms of products, Julie highlights two standouts:
- Stop It Hair Retardant: A post-treatment hydrating moisturizer that, when used regularly, slows down hair growth.
- Power Peptide Serum: Formulated with Astaxanthin and Red Marine Algae, this serum is a barrier-repairing, hydrating powerhouse that helps with signs of aging, pigmentation, and skin hydration.
A Hands-On Approach to Product Development
Julie’s experience as an esthetician has been instrumental in the development of Hair Bare Pro products. Every formula is created with the esthetician in mind, ensuring that the products are effective, easy to use, and, most importantly, beneficial to the client’s skin health.
“I develop all my products in my treatment room with my clients,” Julie shares. “This allows me to perfect every part of the treatment with the esthetician in mind, adding all the little touches that I know I would want when buying into a new brand.”
Overcoming Challenges and Looking Ahead
Like many business owners, Julie faced significant challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, including the loss of her main distributor in Italy. Despite these setbacks, she remained resilient, adapting her business and pushing forward.
One of her proudest achievements to date is securing patents for two of her products—an accomplishment that took four years of hard work and perseverance.
Looking ahead, Julie is excited about expanding Hair Bare Pro internationally, with plans to bring the brand to the U.S. through distribution. She’s also passionate about making the alkaline wash a staple treatment in beauty salons worldwide, believing it has the potential to become as ubiquitous as waxing.
Advice for New Estheticians
For those just starting out in the beauty industry, Julie offers sage advice:
“If you’re starting out on your own, consider renting a room in a busy salon or working from home rather than investing in a long-term lease. The pressure of overhead costs can take away from the fun of the job. Start small, build your clientele, and grow from there.”
She also encourages new estheticians to do their research on product lines, suggesting they look at what the big players in major cities are using and reach out to brands for more information.
What’s Next for Hair Bare Pro?
With her sights set on expanding Hair Bare Pro across the U.S., U.K., Europe, Australia, and South Africa, Julie is determined to continue growing her brand while staying true to her philosophy of innovation, creativity, and support for estheticians.
As she reflects on her journey, Julie emphasizes the importance of self-care—something she admits she’s still working on herself. But, as a small business owner, she makes time for a hot bubble bath each morning, giving herself a moment to reflect and prepare for the day ahead.
Final Thoughts
Julie Jacobs’ story is one of perseverance, passion, and creativity. Through Hair Bare Pro, she has not only created a niche product that marries skincare and hair removal but also continues to inspire and support estheticians around the world. With exciting new developments on the horizon, Hair Bare Pro is a brand to watch for beauty professionals looking to offer their clients the best of both worlds.