Rachel Christy

Falling into Clean Living But Coming Up Short

In the early 2000s, I embraced the clean living movement, starting with food and extending to all aspects of life. But by 2009, living in Iowa's frigid weather, my skin was freaking out—dry, dehydrated, and sensitive and I was hoping my local co-op's natural skincare aisle would become my sanctuary.

However, what I found at the co-op was a tiny $65 bottle of facial oil with just two ingredients—Rosehip seed oil and rose geranium essential oil. My WTF moment turned into determination. I mean, how hard could it be to support my own skin if that was a legit option! I borrowed and bought books on natural skincare, ready to DIY. This was also the moment I knew my street smarts were leading me somewhere purposeful about health & beauty. 

Deep Dive into Skin & Aromatherapy

My exploration into holistic skincare led me to enroll in Andrea Butje's aromatherapy course at Aromahead International Institute. I learned about essential oils' safety, chemistry, and energetics, changing my skincare approach. My thesis focused on reducing essential oils in skincare by exploring carrier oils. I discovered that fatty acid profiles in carrier oils offered sustainable skincare solutions (full-on skin nerd here!) This knowledge became my Rosetta Stone for skincare formulations that actually create lasting change.

Street Cred: From Hobbyist to Esthetician

After becoming a certified aromatherapist, I noticed many organic skincare formulators lacked practical skincare backgrounds. Determined to stand out, I received my esthetician license in 2010 and in 2016 I launched Street Smart Beauty. Today, I offer a unique 360 approach to SSB’s skincare and waxing services-  infusing the use of natural, organic, and non-toxic ingredients, integrating self-care and mindfulness practices, and deep relaxation experiences, like yoga nidra, and emphasizing a conscientious and meticulous approach to your skincare and waxing sessions.

Explore my services at Street Smart Beauty and let me help you achieve your skincare and waxing goals with my step-by-step guidance and attention.

Thank you for reading my story. I hope it inspires you to pursue your passion, just as I pursued mine!