Businesswoman Yuliya Maiboroda has been working in the beauty industry for over ten years. Last year, she opened the YB Professional beauty salon, which has been gaining attention in the market. Is it really possible to offer something unique in the competitive beauty industry? We asked Yuliya for her insights.
Yuliya, tell us how you entered the beauty industry.
My journey began 10 years ago as a manicurist. I’ve always enjoyed enhancing beauty, so I studied various areas: lamination and eyelash extensions, hair extensions, and treatments. I also mastered techniques in Russian manicure and pedicure. After moving to the USA, I worked from home for two years, eventually gaining so many clients that I could no longer manage alone.
You could have rented a space or hired another stylist. Why did you decide to open a salon immediately?
I had a clear vision of what I wanted and how I could stand out from competitors. So, I saved money, found a location, did some renovations, acquired equipment, and assembled a team—then the work began.
The salon is under a year old, yet you’ve already worked with a top fashion magazine and styled actresses for the film “Angels and Demons.” Why did they choose your salon? What’s your approach?
Our approach emphasizes speed and quality. These two factors are essential in the film and fashion industry. For busy clients, we offer the “Queen’s Chair” service, where you can enjoy a manicure, pedicure, and brow/lash service simultaneously in a comfortable chair. You can leave our salon feeling relaxed and renewed in about 90 minutes. For those who seek relaxation, we offer massages, face masks, hair treatments, soothing music, and refreshments. Our salon caters to each client’s needs, offering a high standard of service.
What does “high-quality service” mean to you?
High quality is not just about luxury; it’s about safety and precision. Some salons lack rigorous hygiene, which can cause issues like nail fungus. From my experience as a technician, I saw clients with ingrown nails or poorly applied coatings. We set our salon apart by maintaining strict quality standards: products sourced from Ukraine, France, the USA, and Canada, with all tools undergoing a four-step sterilization process. Packages are opened in front of the client, and all consumables, such as files, are disposable. Our techniques aim to provide long-lasting results, with nails and lashes that can last up to six weeks. However, we advise clients to repeat procedures every 3-4 weeks for best results. Additionally, we’re one of the few salons that offer guidance on aftercare for nails, lashes, and hair.
With such high standards, is it challenging to find the right team?
I personally interview all candidates, requiring at least 8 years of experience. Experienced professionals bring advanced skills, such as the Russian manicure technique, which involves precise cuticle work and meticulous nail architecture. This experience is essential, but I also value a commitment to ongoing education to stay aligned with client needs. Candidates complete a test assignment where they demonstrate cuticle work and coating skills. Only those who meet our standards join the team.
Your salon offers a broad range of services. Is this a unique feature?
It’s another way we care for clients. Many beauty salons focus on specialized services, meaning clients often have to visit multiple locations for different treatments. Our salon consolidates all services in one place, saving clients time and effort.
How do you plan to expand your salon?
My goal is to build a chain of salons and open beauty schools in the USA. Despite the abundance of salons, finding highly skilled technicians remains challenging. My team consists of qualified professionals dedicated to sharing their knowledge. As we expand, we aim to offer employment to graduates of our training programs. We’ve started classes on Russian manicure techniques and will soon introduce advanced group courses for American salon staff. Our training will include both traditional and innovative techniques.
Yuliya, you embody the polished image of a beauty professional. Where do you get your treatments done?
Only in my salon. It’s convenient and reliable—everything I need is here, and I trust the quality of the services.
Published by: Josh Tatunay
