As part of our third annual By Women series—which spotlights the best women-owned products and companies—we’re talking to Joanna Czech, a celebrity aesthetician with three studios across the United States and her own eponymous skin care line. With this series, we’re committed to giving female founders who own 51% or more of their business a platform. This not only allows them to introduce their brilliant products to a wide and potentially new audience, but it also helps you—the discerning shopper—discover the best stuff out there.
Before the trendy facial studios we know and love now, there was Joanna Czech. Originally starting her career as an aesthetician in Poland, Czech moved to New York more than 35 years ago, where she attracted A-list clientele through methods like deep tissue massage and the use of LED light and ultrasound; all techniques she’s considered a pioneer in. Beyond her experience as a career facialist (“My first and only job has been as an aesthetician,” Czech tells Glamour), she also expanded her skin empire with the launch of Joanna Czech Skincare in 2021.
“At 23, I launched my first business in Poland, not giving the timing much thought,” Czech says of her career beginnings. “Later, in the United States, my work was primarily with private clients or on movie sets, so I didn’t really have the structure of full-time employment. By 2002 or 2003, I felt a desire to create something more organized to share my skincare methods with a bigger audience.”
Stepping into her lower Manhattan studio (one of three total—you can also see her in Beverly Hills and Dallas), you’re immediately transported into a zen, chic, and invitingly warm space. Neutral woods and cream-colored walls surround you, letting your eye travel to the Instagram famous Hästens bed where she offers treatments. But Czech’s skincare studio-slash-boutique isn’t just nice to look at. It hosts a long list of celebrities who trust her with their skin before high profile red carpet events such as the Oscars and Met Gala, including Kim Kardashian, Jennifer Aniston, and Hailey Bieber.
Czech recognizes her influence, citing her own ambition as the key to her success. “To be honest, I’ve navigated my career through my own intuition and creativity,” she says. “As an entrepreneur, I’ve largely formed my own path, often going against the wind. My constant curiosity drives me to learn and explore.”
Below, Czech gives us a glimpse into her world, from her morning routine to her best advice for women looking to start their own business.
Why did you feel like it was a good time to launch your company when you did?
Having arrived in the United States 36 years ago, I noticed disconnect in skincare services, where makeup was prioritized over skin health. I believe that healthy skin begins with client education. While the responsibility of having my name attached to a business naturally brought pressure, my focus was always to give the best possible service to each client. That drive remains with me, even with every new client I see today.
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