Founded in 1987, (originally under the name Carolyn Hammond Beauty), Lift Beauty Salon In Ipswich is one of the most established salons in Suffolk. Located in historic Fore Street, you may have noticed the beautiful timber-framed building when walking past. You may have even admired the amazing window display, painstakingly created in theme with the current season. Inside is just as lovely. An oasis of calm, it is personally one of my favourite places in town. I always look forward to a visit, knowing that I will come out feeling relaxed and refreshed.
There is an extensive menu of treatments to choose from, meaning there is something for everyone. The owner of Lift, Hayley, was kind enough to answer some questions on being a business owner, as well as offering some skincare advice. Hayley has over 24 years of experience in the beauty industry and was an employee at the salon before becoming the owner in 2010, rebranding it as Lift Beauty in 2015.
You took over ownership of the salon in 2010, having previously worked there as an employee under the previous owner, was it always your long-term goal to run your own salon?
I didn’t have a long-term goal; I was teaching beauty therapy and just had my second child at the time the business came up for sale as the previous owner was retiring. It was always what I believed to be a pipe dream to own a salon, but had always said if this salon came up for sale, I would love to purchase it. I loved working there as an employee and had very fond memories of the clients, team and loved Decleor. I didn’t anticipate that it would become a reality, however, I thought “it’s now or never” this opportunity may never come up again. I have never looked back.
What inspired you to pursue a career in this industry?
I fell into this career. I wanted to work with children originally, but whilst in 6th form you had to take a vocational course alongside your academic subjects. The only courses available were hairdressing and beauty therapy, catering or mechanics. I opted for the hairdressing and beauty therapy course and loved it so much that I went on to study a further 3 years full time and 2 years of evening courses.
What is your favourite thing about being a business owner?
Being a business owner gives you the freedom to make it your own. I am passionate about the beauty industry; I can explore the many new treatments and techniques and decide if that is the direction, I would like to take the business or if I feel it would work for us as a salon.
How do you maintain a work/life balance?
This bit is tricky and has taken a long time to get that balance. I know the importance of a good work/life balance and the many benefits it brings. I am often telling my clients how important this is, but if lockdown has taught us anything, it’s self-care. I try to be disciplined; spending set times answering emails, messages and doing office work. I can then dedicate time to the family and spend a little “me-time”, guilt-free.
What is your favourite treatment to carry out?
Facials, without a doubt. The transformation in client’s confidence, skin and even their mental health is one of the best feelings. I often have my head in a book or scroll the internet doing research on the skin and the newest products.
If you had to recommend just one treatment Lift Beauty Salon In Ipswich offers, what should we all be booking an appointment for?
Dermalux LED treatment; has to be one of the best high-tech treatments in recent times to improve skin conditions. As seen used by many celebrities and beauty gurus, Dermalux helps with skin rejuvenation, skin clearing, eczema, wound healing and much more. Great for teenagers to very mature skin. It is a versatile treatment, which can be taken alone or combined with any facial to enhance result. Dermalux is adapted for each client’s main concerns.
What is the one skincare rule we should all be following?
Always use an SPF, even in the winter or if indoors. It’s a misconception that you do not need SPF when inside, windows do not block UVA rays and these contribute to the ageing process and skin cancers. If you sit close to a window, and it has lots of light coming through, slather on the SPF. This is the best form of protection from UV rays and choose a broad spectrum one. Sun protection is the key to youthful skin, but essential in preventing sun damage and skin cancers.
What is the one skincare rule we should all be following?
Always use an SPF, even in the winter or if indoors. It’s a misconception that you do not need SPF when inside, windows do not block UVA rays and these contribute to the ageing process and skin cancers. If you sit close to a window, and it has lots of light coming through, slather on the SPF. This is the best form of protection from UV rays and choose a broad spectrum one. Sun protection is the key to youthful skin, but essential in preventing sun damage and skin cancers.
Be sure to check out Lift’s page Instagram here for their treatment list. As a client for many years, I cannot recommend them highly enough. The team at the salon are incredibly friendly and well-trained in the treatments they offer. It’s the perfect excuse to treat yourself!
The Lift Beauty Salon In Ipswich is open Monday to Saturday, you can book appointments on 01473 226900, online via the website, or (something I absolutely love) through their own app. As a cliched millennial, if I can book something without having to make a phone call, I will always take that option!