Small Business Spotlight: Studio Rylee
I’m so excited to give this month’s small business shout out to Brooke Habberstad and her dream space, Studio Rylee. I had the luxury of indulging in a facial by Brooke herself, this year for my birthday, and I have to say I’m hooked! But first let me back up… To start, you should know that though I am a huge lover of a day at the spa and a luxurious massage treatment, I’ve never actually been a fan of facials. It’s not because I don’t like the experience, to be honest I’ve just never seen any results to speak of and therefore have never felt that they were an important part of my routine. Couple that with the fact that so many aestheticians utilize harsh chemical laden ingredients, you’ve got this eco-obsessed gal running the other way.
That’s where Brooke and her method comes in. I had actually seen many of my friends and colleagues raving about her services and I felt I just had to try it for myself. And I have to say from the minute I was greeted by her and welcomed into her zen sanctuary space I knew I was in the best of hands. Her philosophy which is one that mixes the use of organic, botanical ingredients with pharmaceutical grade skincare was something I could really get behind, and the fact that she has gone to painstaking detail in researching each of the treatments and products she offers allowed me to trust in her process and expertise. Oh, and my skin… I left with a glow that remained for days, and the best part I’ve never had softer skin.
About Brooke Habberstad
Brooke was born and raised on Long Island, NY. Throughout her teenage years she struggled with cystic acne, which really took a toll on her mental health. Saying no to events or hanging out with friends because she was embarrassed of her skin. After years of trying to find solutions to clear her acne, she decided to take matters into her own hands. She realized after years of researching acne on her own, that she learned a lot along the way and truly became passionate about all things skincare.
She first discovered Charleston through some family members that attended College of Charleston. After visiting them a few times, she fell in love with the city and ended up going to CofC for undergraduate school. After graduating CofC, and trying a few jobs that didn't feel like a great fit, she realized that she should do something that she was passionate about, and something that she would look forward to doing on a daily basis. At this point, her skin had cleared up tremendously and she wanted to help other people who were struggling with skin issues. For that reason she decided to kickstart her Esthetics career by attending Paul Mitchell the School in North Charleston. Once she graduated PMTS and got her license, she worked at a high end spa in downtown Charleston to gain even more experience. She quickly realized that it made a lot more sense for her to open her own facial studio using all products and services that she truly could stand behind. And she can confidently say, opening Studio Rylee in November 2023 was the best decision she’s ever made. In fact, she never thought she would be in the position where she’d be genuinely excited to go to work everyday, but here we are! Brooke’s true happy place is being in her studio, meeting new clients or catching up with old clients. The support she’s received from the Charleston community has been truly empowering and she can't wait to watch Studio Rylee grow.
Studio Rylee’s Services
Studio Rylee’s services are focused on corrective, results driven treatments. Brooke’s an acne specialist, but she can help with any skin concern (Rosacea, Hyperpigmentation, Melasma, etc.) She always strive to find the newest and greatest skincare treatments in this ever-changing market. BioRePeel, Microchanneling, Co2 Lift Pro, and the Glacial Fx provide amazing results with minimal to no downtime.
She also uses a combination of pharmaceutical grade skincare mixed with organic botanicals, as well as some of the most advanced treatments and boosters on the market. Whether you have a skin issue of concern, or just want monthly maintenance, Brooke is focused on customizing each facial to the individuals' needs.
Must Have Skincare Product
Without a doubt, SPF. Everything else is useless if you're not protecting your skin on a daily basis! UV exposure is responsible for 80% of visible facial aging signs. Brooke wears a tinted sunscreen instead of makeup everyday which is a gamechanger.
Favorite Hidden Spot: Charleston
Pitt Street Bridge: It’s so peaceful and really takes you out of any of the hustle and bustle. Brooke loves going on walks with her dog, so she tries to pick a new location everyday to keep things interesting!
Go-to Lunch Spot Charleston
Huriyali | Honey Matche Latte with their housemate cashew milk
What She’s Loving Right Now
The Glacial FX machine! She’s the first provider in Charleston to offer the Glacial, which is essentially a cold plunge for your face. Truly anyone can benefit from it and it feels like heaven especially in this summer heat!
What’s Up Next
Aside from skincare, Brooke just started nutrition school part time in order to give her clients as much healthy/lifestyle advice as possible. She’s been wellness obsessed for as long as she can remember, so she sees this as the perfect next step!