Career diaries: Ayse Balich and Sai Demirovich, sisters and co-founders of Glo Spa NY

Sisters Ayse Balich and Sai Demirovich never suspected that they would run their own spa together until it happened, just like that. This is because they both went to college to study fields not even remotely related to beauty industry and they had a completely different plan for what they would do with their lives. However, after realizing their true passion for skin care, Balic and Demirovich founded Glo Spa New York, trendy, modern - and very cute, may I just add - a spa in Manhattan's financial district. Complete with decor that will make you want to redecorate the whole apartment and technical specialists just as frankly answer all your skin care questions as they chat about the amazing sale they did over the weekend, the vibe at Glo Spa makes you feel comfortable and confident when you walk out the door. 

To learn more about their path to becoming skin-transforming bosses in Lower Manhattan, we caught up with Balic and Demirovich. Ahead, find out what the most common question a beautician gets asked daily and the top skincare sister tip of all time (it might really surprise you!). 

How did you start your career as a beautician? 

Leaves: Initially, I was in college and majored in biology, but worked part-time at the spa. I liked the atmosphere and decided that I wanted to do beauty and skin care, and have been doing it ever since.

AishaA: I went to college first and got a bachelor's degree in business, but it didn't take long for me to realize that I just wasn't passionate about whatever role I would take on. I went to aesthetics school not only for a career change, but also because I have always been drawn to this industry. It was the best decision I have ever made. I love taking care of skin and making people look and feel great; Becoming a cosmetologist, I felt that I had achieved what I should have been. 

When did your love for skincare begin?

Leaves: When I got adult acne, I became more serious about skin care. In the process of studying my own skin, I realized that I can help many people when it comes to acne and other skin problems.

What prompted you to open your own spa with your sister?

Aisha: My sister and I have always talked about opening a spa together, but it never really seemed like it would actually happen. Until one day it happened, and who better to team up with than the person you trust the most? 

What advice would you give to aspiring women entrepreneurs?

Aisha: Do not be afraid of failure. It was something that was difficult for me to overcome, but if you haven't tried, then you have already failed. You will always want to be an expert in your field, so never stop learning. Knowledge is key in any industry and learning never ends because industry and/or technology change is inevitable. There are many levels of success. Just remember that you, too, can do whatever you put into your mind and heart.

What is your favorite treatment at GLO Spa NY?

Aisha: JetPeel/Dermalinfusion combo facial is my favorite treatment. It targets so many layers of the skin and gives you instant gratification along with Blimey factor once you're done. Your skin just glows after. 

Where do you hope to see GLO Spa NY in ten years?

Leaves: Having multiple offices in different parts of the US - and who knows - the world?

Aisha: A few good locations would be amazing. 

What's your top skin care tip? 

Leaves: Less is always more! If you're a big skincare lover, set aside one night a week when you go to bed bare-skinned. I feel like letting your face breathe and repair on its own can be just as great as putting product on your face all the time.

What is the most common question your clients ask you? 

Leaves: "How to narrow the pores?" - and the answer is not simple. The size of your pores is the size of your pores and it is almost impossible to make them disappear. But with regular facial cleansing treatments, clean pores will look smaller and your skin will appear brighter, resulting in smaller pores.

If you weren't a beautician, what would you be doing? 

Leaves: If I didn't work in the beauty industry, I would be doing environmental science. Taking care of the planet is something that is very close to my heart. My clients already know when they are with me that we are talking about climate change and major climate news.

Aisha: I wish I could say “feed all the hungry kids in the world”, but most likely I would be working 9 to 5 or staying at home with my mom for a few years. Luckily, having a spa gives me the flexibility to work and spend time with my kids.