In an industry that thrives on innovation and transformation, Arpita Das is committed to progress with knowledge as the key ingredient. A key figure in North India’s beauty industry, she has dedicated her career to professional beauty elevating it through education and high-quality training. She is a strong advocate for sustainable and ethical beauty practices. In this conversation, Arpita shares her vision for the future of beauty education and her journey in the industry.
1) What inspired you enter the professional beauty industry?
From childhood, I have seen my mom running a small salon, and we grew up watching her work with incredible skill and dedication. Seeing her passion for beauty left a lasting impression on me.
Initially, I pursued a career in IT, completing my studies in computers and later moving to the U.S. for further education. While in New York, I noticed some of my friends and colleagues taking up part-time jobs in beauty salons. That exposure rekindled my interest in the industry, and I decided to take a cosmetology course.
Switching from IT to beauty was a big decision, but looking back, it was the right one. I had worked with multiple MNCs and corporate companies before making the transition, and I couldn’t be happier with where I am today. The beauty industry is my true passion, and I’m grateful for the journey that brought me here.
2) Describe your journey to become a beauty consultant and later to establish your own academy and salon?
I have worked with many global professional skincare brands and successfully launched them in numerous salons and clinics in India. I’ve conducted countless training sessions with therapists and visited over 400-500 salons. Through conversations with many salon owners, I realized there is a gap where salons and brands need a 360° approach with an industry expert. This realization motivated me to become a consultant, helping businesses and professionals refine their skills and strategies.
After gaining hands-on experience in salons, I realized that education and mentorship were key to elevating industry standards. Over time, I saw the need for a structured learning environment, which led me to establish my own beauty academy. My goal was to provide high-quality training and empower aspiring beauty professionals with the knowledge and skills they needed to succeed.
3) As an educator, what are the challenges you face?
As a Beauty and Skin educator, one of the biggest challenges I face is the lack of formal education among many therapists and beauticians. Many of them have not attended reputable academies or completed courses that cover the theoretical aspects of beauty and skincare. This lack of foundational knowledge makes it difficult to effectively communicate and teach more advanced concepts, especially when it comes to understanding the science behind skin treatments or working with advanced products.
Without a solid theoretical understanding, it becomes challenging to ensure that they are able to apply the techniques correctly or grasp the reasoning behind why certain products or methods are used. This can also affect the long-term success of treatments and the clients’ overall satisfaction.
I believe that to overcome these challenges, therapists and technicians need more exposure to quality education. Beauty academies should offer more accessible learning opportunities, such as short courses that are both affordable and practical. This way, more professionals can gain the knowledge they need to excel and provide the highest level of care to their clients. By focusing on education, we can raise the standard of the beauty industry as a whole and ensure that professionals are equipped with both the skills and the knowledge necessary to deliver top-notch results.
4) How do you feel your work as a beauty consultant has impacted the beauty industry, especially in Northern India?
I believe my work has significantly impacted the beauty industry, particularly in Northern India. Living in Delhi has made it easier for me to travel frequently to various regions, allowing me to engage more directly with the local beauty industry. Initially, it was challenging to make the industry understand the importance of having a consultant, as many were unfamiliar with the specific role a consultant plays. However, through consistent efforts and hard work, I educated industry professionals on the value of a consultant’s expertise and the scope of work involved.
Over time, I’ve successfully completed several projects in Northern India, including launching standalone salons, which has been incredibly rewarding. One aspect that has made my work more effective in Northern India is the ease of communication with local technicians. This is especially true when compared to the South, where language barriers can sometimes make it harder to connect and convey concepts. Nevertheless, I’ve also had the opportunity to work on meaningful projects in the South, further enriching my experience and expanding my reach in the beauty industry.
Overall, I believe my efforts have helped elevate the standards of beauty education and salon operations in Northern India, and I look forward to continuing to contribute to the growth and development of the industry in the region.
5) How do you envision the future of the beauty industry, and what role do you see yourself playing in it?
I envision the future of the beauty industry as one that continues to evolve with an increasing focus on innovation, education, and sustainability. As technology advances, I see a growing demand for more personalized and scientifically backed beauty solutions, with an emphasis on skin health and well-being. The integration of advanced treatments, digital tools, and sustainable practices will become a cornerstone of the industry. I also foresee a shift towards inclusivity, with brands and professionals embracing a wider range of skin tones, types, and concerns.
In this evolving landscape, I see myself playing a key role as an educator and consultant, helping professionals adapt to the changing demands of the industry. With my experience in training and mentoring, I believe I can contribute to shaping a new generation of beauty professionals who are not only skilled but also well-versed in the science behind beauty treatments. I aim to continue bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical expertise, ensuring that beauty professionals are equipped to provide the best, most informed care for their clients.
Furthermore, I envision myself being part of the movement towards more sustainable and ethical practices in the beauty industry, guiding professionals on how to integrate these practices into their daily work. Overall, I hope to remain a source of knowledge and support for the industry, ensuring that both beauty professionals and their clients benefit from the latest trends, technologies, and educational advancements.
