Healing Through the Mirror: A Conversation with Elizabeth Cestrone

In the world of beauty, it’s easy to get lost in the "glamour." But for Elizabeth Cestrone, a dual-licensed esthetician and cosmetologist based in Alexandria, VA, the brush and the botanical are tools for something much deeper: Validation.

In this week’s episode of Rebelle Stories, we explore why "beauty" is often a misnomer for what is actually an act of radical self-preservation. Elizabeth joins us to share her journey as a "skincare super-fan" who believes that the right blend of care and craft can transform not just how we look, but how we carry ourselves in a world that often tries to dim our light.

In this episode, we dive into:

• The Science of Self-Worth: How Elizabeth’s deep technical knowledge of skincare allows her to provide more than just a service—she provides a foundation for confidence.

• Creating Radical Safe Spaces: The importance of inclusivity in the beauty industry and how Elizabeth uses her studio to champion the rights of women and the LGBTQ+ community.

• The Emotional Labor of Care: A candid look at how a high-touch professional protects her own energy and "joy tank" while holding space for her clients' stories.

• The Rebelle Connection: How the simple act of grooming or makeup mirrors the mission of Rebelle With A Cause—helping survivors reclaim their identity and strength.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rebellestories.substack.com