Esthetician Spotlight: Ashley A. Taylor, Kismet Skin Co.

Throughout October, which we have deemed National Esthetician Appreciation Month, we are highlighting some of the amazing estheticians we work with. Kismet Skin Co. is an independent, woman-owned boutique skin care studio, founded by master esthetician Ashley Taylor (AT). She is based in DC, and discovered, then fell in love with, our Kantic Brightening Moisture Mask at the beginning of her career as an esthetician. Here, our CEO Ada Polla (AP) speaks with her about her journey as an esthetician, and an entrepreneur.

AP:What was your journey to becoming an esthetician?

AT:My journey started with a lifelong love of beauty, skin, and confidence. I’ve always believed that how we care for our skin is deeply connected to how we feel in our skin — both physically and emotionally. After years of being fascinated by ingredients, treatments, and the way small rituals create transformation, I decided to pursue aesthetics professionally. That path eventually led me to open Kismet Skin Co., my boutique skincare studio in Washington, DC, where I blend advanced treatments with an emphasis on education, comfort, and results.

AP:Where do you currently practice?

AT:I’m the owner and lead Master Esthetician at Kismet Skin Co. in Washington, DC — a boutique skincare studio focused on intentional, results-driven treatments and an elevated client experience.

AP:How did you discover Alchimie Forever? What was your first Alchimie Forever product?

AT:I first discovered Alchimie Forever close to when I began my aesthetics career nearly 10 years ago. I was introduced to the brand at a practice called Retro in North Carolina. The first product I tried was the Kantic Brightening Moisture Mask, and it’s remained one of my all-time favorites ever since — calming, hydrating, and instantly restoring that healthy glow. There truly isn’t anything else on the market that delivers the same combination of brightening, radiance, and post-procedural hydration.

AP:What is your favorite Alchimie Forever product and why?

AT:All these years later, it is still the Kantic Brightening Moisture Mask — it’s soothing, hydrating, and universally loved by clients. It brings the skin back to balance, leaving it calm, radiant, and nourished.

AP:What Alchimie Forever product do you use or recommend the most to clients?

AT:You guessed it… The Kantic Brightening Moisture Mask. It’s my go-to recommendation for post-treatment recovery, travel, or anytime the skin needs extra hydration and calm. It’s one of those products that delivers visible results every single time.

AP:What is your #1 skincare recommendation to clients:

AT:Consistency over complexity. The most transformative results come from using result- oriented formulations consistently. Stick with a few high-quality products that truly serve your skin and protect your results daily with sunscreen - it’s the simplest, most effective investment youcan make in your skin.

AP:What is your skincare hot take / unpopular opinion?

AT:More does not equal better. Better is better. Skin doesn’t need excess - it needs intention, quality formulations, and consistency.

AP:What is one thing you avoid at all costs when taking care of your skin?

AT:Jumping into aggressive treatments. Real results come from consistency over intensity - from working with the skin, not against it.

AP:Can you talk about the connection between self-care and skincare?

AT:Skincare is self-care. It’s a daily ritual that invites you to slow down and connect with yourself. The way we care for our skin mirrors how we care for ourselves, with patience, consistency, and compassion. It’s less about perfection and more about creating a moment of calm and intention in your day.

AP:What is your favorite form of self-care?

AT:Therapy and hot yoga. Both give me dedicated time to be fully present with myself - mentally, emotionally, and physically. It’s where I process, recharge, and reconnect. Making that space for yourself isn’t indulgent; it’s essential.

AP:Taks us through your morning routine.

AT:My mornings are busy and full, so I keep my skincare simple: a gentle cleanse, antioxidant serum, moisturizer, and always SPF. A hot cup of coffee is non-negotiable, and my routine helps me feel put-together and ready before the day takes off.

AP:What are you excited about right now?

AT:I’m excited about the continued growth of Kismet Skin Co. and all the opportunities that come with it. I’m also incredibly proud and grateful to have been named Esthetician of the Year, which feels like such a meaningful reflection of the work and heart I’ve poured into this industry. Beyond that, I’m passionate about mentoring my esthetician team and supporting other estheticians across the country as they grow in their own careers.