Brilliant Bodywork is located in the heart of La Crosse, Wisconsin and was created to be an inclusive, safe space where the services go beyond the procedures. Medical spa procedures are not always comfortable, so it is a priority for Brilliant Bodywork to have empathy and compassion to ease clients’ anxiety and provide a more successful outcome emotionally and physically. Brilliant Bodywork has been open for 15 years and changes lives daily by arming clients with knowledge, helping them feel confident in their skin by loving themselves just as they are. DERMASCOPE sat down with owner, Stephanie Andresen Stevens to learn more about this Face Haven. What pushed you to open your own spa, and at what point in your career did you open it? It was very important that my spa was seen as a safe haven, not only for the clients but also for myself and my staff. I started Brilliant Bodywork right out of aesthetics school in a 250-square foot office space and we were able to grow into a 7,000-square foot spa that is now seen as a local respite spot for members of our community. What has been your biggest challenge to overcome as a spa owner? Imposter syndrome has been my biggest challenge as a spa owner. In my quiet mornings, before the spa opens, I sit in wonder of how I have made it as far as I have in my profession. I feel so blessed to serve others. What do you look for in a professional brand? When seeking out new professional brands, I look for integrity. I look for products that are available to professionals only, not sold online, and I look for companies that are not going to market directly to my clients. I also look for companies that invest in their representatives. What is your favorite treatment to receive? My favorite treatment is the PiXel 8-RF with AnteAGE MDX immediately following the treatment. I love the lift and glow I get from this treatment. Favorite ingredients? My all-time favorite ingredient is mandelic acid. It is so versatile and can help with inflamed acne, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, sun damage, folliculitis, and more. It is a must have in my treatment room and in my own beauty routine. What is unique about your spa? We serve our community through giving back. We facilitate two nonprofits, Restorative Ink and Wings of Hope. Through Restorative Ink, we offer free tattoo removal services to survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking. Wings of Hope assists oncology clients with massage and skin care services during and post-treatment. Due to the high medical costs that these clients are subject to, clients are asked to only pay what they can afford. Contact Information: @brilliantbodywork brilliantbodywork.com 608-783-8380 Want to read more? Subscribe to one of our monthly plans to continue reading this article.