Erica Erickson
What do I love about skin care?
The “hands on” people connection is a unique experience. When I worked behind the counter in the department stores applying makeup, customers would always say I had a nice touch. I guess that made me aware that I have a special gift. Beautiful makeup can only be applied to beautiful skin, so skincare became my focus.
In my past environments of the skin care industry, it was my observation that the customer was always so confused with all the choices available to them. They continually say to me that they so appreciate my telling them what skin care products are going to work for their skin type and lifestyle. And that they are happy to pass by all the ads in magazines and not have to wonder if that product would be right for them. With proper products and hands on guidance, it gives me the opportunity to select the right home care on an individual basis.
Many people feel that “having a facial” is a luxury. However, I believe in it as part of health care, part of how you take care of yourself. It’s an extension of grooming, and is as important as seeing the dentist or doctor. I frequently call myself the skin hygienist. It’s kind of like exercise for your skin. It improves texture, color, and gives that inner glow. I pride myself in my years of experience to expertly, and carefully, know how to clean out pores (extract blackheads and whiteheads, and even know when to send someone to their doctor because I suspect an abnormal condition i.e pre-cancer and other skin disorders or if their care needs medical help. Having a top, Dermatology clinic in Denver referring their patients to me is my top honor.
Why did I start my business?
After working for another salon for 8 years, I wanted to utilize my specialized training in post-operative facial care for plastic surgery patients. I was fortunate to open an office suite next to a plastic surgery practice in Englewood, where I offered my regular facial clients their services and expanded my specialized services (post operative corrective makeup applications for post peels, burn survivors, trauma patients.)
Why did I start a boutique in addition to skin care?
In 1988 Erica’s Skin Care Centers, Inc. was founded. Facial customers bought their skin care products, but wanted to buy the earrings I wore! Then they wanted the bath wrap they put on for their facial, and it really took off from there. The clientele that visits for their monthly facials appreciate the “one stop shop” in a relaxed atmosphere. A variety of different venues evolved over the years, but largely the focus was to offer my clients ways to feel good, look good, and take care of themselves. It really is my hobby, and it is designed to provide the best from a variety of sources, whether it is a gift or for personal use. The baby part of the boutique was originally more of a test to see if there was in interest in baby gifts, and now it is probably our most client favorite place to shop for a baby gift. Robert and I go to various markets during the year and we have a knack for finding the unique items that one doesn’t see all over town.
Why Colorado?
Moving to Colorado from Oklahoma, I started my path to skincare by working in the cosmetic department for several major cosmetic companies for 7 years.
In 1980 I received my license as an esthetician and worked for a salon in Cherry Creek, after 8 years as their technical training director, I was asked by a plastic surgeon to work adjacent to his practice in Englewood, Colorado. In 2001, my husband Robert and I built our own building located in the same vicinity.
When and how did Robert and I meet?
In March, 1988, I met Robert at a fundraiser and fashion show that Max was giving, I think it was for Colorado Opera, where I volunteered to help out. I was needed in the coat check. He checked his fedora. I commented on his nice hat. Later that night, he was in the line for cocktails where I was waiting to get a drink, and we started to talk. He asked my for my phone number and I gave it to him when he got his hat at the end of the evening.