Gerhard, you've been in the beauty industry for a few years now. As a beautician, you help women bring out the best in themselves and underline their individual beauty. How did that come about, and what were your challenges in positioning yourself as a man in this rather female-dominated industry?
I actually wanted to be a hairdresser after I finished school. However, my father was strictly against it because he thought a job in the beauty industry would not suit a man. That's why I started my career in the automotive industry. I never gave up on my dream, though, and after a few other jobs, I finally trained as a beautician.
Do you think it's harder for a man to be taken seriously in the cosmetics industry?
No, just the opposite! As a man in this female-dominated industry, you enjoy the special attention. Men stand out!
What should a customer look for when searching for a good beauty salon?
The most important things are cleanliness and a high standard of hygiene. Qualifications and further training are also essential. Just ask or take a look at the certificates displayed in the studio.
What do you offer in your studio that is based in Wiener Neustadt-Austria?
My services range from classic facials and paramedical
treatments to eyelash extensions, needling, permanent make-up, rolling brows, the new kind of permanent make-up, mesotherapy, permanent make-up correction and removal.
I also offer ongoing training courses on these topics in my modern training studio.
Your passion is nipple reconstruction after breast cancer. How does such a treatment work in your studio, how long does it take, and what result can your customers expect?
With my professional nipple reconstruction through 3D tattooing of the nipple and the areola, I can restore the optical balance of the breast. Once the treatment is approved by the plastic surgeon, an initial consultation takes place, in which we calmly discuss the customer's goals and select the right shade together. Before getting the tattoo, the client applies a soothing ointment on the skin area, making the treatment virtually painless. The treatment takes around two hours, and there is a final check-up 4-5 weeks after the procedure.
What advice would you give to young people who want to get started in the cosmetics industry?
Consistent and ongoing training. You should never stand still! I stay true to the motto, "practice makes perfect."
I would also tell anyone interested in the cosmetics industry to swim against the current once in a while.
One last question for Gerhard Riegler apart from business. As we discovered, you have also been making music for years. Please tell us more about it and also please tell us how you like to spend your leisure time.
Music is my absolute passion. As a duo, we regularly perform as dance formations at balls and various private events. I like to spend my free time with my wife and enjoy just doing nothing once in a while.
Riegler Gerhard Kosmetik & Beauty
www.gerhard-riegler.at
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