03/25/2026
I achieved a BIG thing. I became a finalist in FIVE of the six skincare categories I competed in. The interviews were challenging as they ought to be. My confidence got thrown, I felt it which means the judges did as well.
I've been a judge for The Skin Games (Sugaring), so I know how close the scoring can be. Therefore, I KNOW the work I did was exceptional. I MADE it to the FINALS! However, 3 phenomenal Estheticians performed better and exceeded in some areas I did not.
Sometimes we do not realize how much of ourselves we pour into something until the outcome hurts. It is OK to admit that!
It is crucial you know YOU are NOT a failure! You belong in this industry!
For those who competed and did not place, I just want to say this: I see you. I see the preparation, the nerves, the time, the money, the vulnerability, the hope, and the courage it took to put yourself out there. Please do not let one result erase everything this experience required of you.
Not placing does not mean you were not talented. It does not mean your work was not beautiful.
It does not mean your growth was not real.
It does not mean you have less to offer.
So many of us are quick to celebrate others, but struggle to validate ourselves. This is your reminder that you do not need a trophy, title, or outside applause to acknowledge your own bravery. You are allowed to say: I worked hard.
I showed up.
I grew.
I learned.
I was courageous.
I am still proud of myself.
Self-validation looks like honoring what the experience gave you, not just grieving what it did not. It looks like speaking to yourself with the same kindness you would offer a friend. It looks like remembering that your worth was never on trial.
To my fellow sugaring professionals and friends who are feeling disappointed: please be gentle with yourselves. You did a hard thing. You took a risk. There are so many sugaring pros who DO NOT have the courage to compete. You stepped into the arena. That matters. And no result can take that away from you.
