Today we’d like to introduce you to I’LA Franklin.
Hi I’LA, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Shape Aesthetics was founded in 2021, originally under the name S.H.A.P.E., with a focus on post operative care and lymphatic massage for women recovering from cosmetic surgery. During a surge in cosmetic procedures, there was a growing need for skilled providers to support healing, maintain results, and improve recovery outcomes.
While working as a Clinical Medical Assistant in a high performing plastic surgery practice, I gained hands on experience in both invasive and non invasive aesthetics. That exposure, combined with my work providing mobile post operative care such as lymphatic massage and dressing changes, made it clear that I wanted to expand my skill set and offer more comprehensive skin focused care.
This led me to pursue formal esthetician training, allowing me to merge clinical knowledge with advanced skincare techniques. As my education and experience grew, Shape Aesthetics evolved from post operative support into a more holistic aesthetics practice focused on intentional treatments, long term skin health, and helping clients feel confident in their skin.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The journey has not been a smooth road. From 2021 to the present, I faced a combination of financial, emotional, and logistical challenges while pursuing education and building my foundation in the aesthetics industry. There were moments where I had to choose between basic survival and continuing to pursue my long-term vision, which ultimately led me to take a temporary leave of absence to protect my mental and physical well-being.
Returning to school came with renewed determination, but I also encountered environments that were not aligned with my values or conducive to growth. Navigating these situations required self-advocacy, discernment, and the confidence to walk away from spaces that no longer served my purpose, even when it was difficult or uncertain. At the same time, I managed transportation limitations and demanding schedules, which required discipline, adaptability, and patience.
Beyond the external challenges, I also faced internal growth moments such as self-doubt, imposter syndrome, and learning to trust my own timing. These experiences forced me to slow down, reflect, and strengthen my faith, while clarifying why I chose this path in the first place. Each obstacle refined my vision, strengthened my resilience, and reinforced my commitment to building a practice rooted in integrity, wellness, and long-term impact.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
My work through Shape Aesthetics is rooted in building confidence from within by addressing the internal, hormonal, and environmental factors that impact skin health. I specialize in hormonal and stress related skin conditions, understanding that many skin concerns are connected to lifestyle, wellness, and long term balance rather than quick fixes.
What sets me apart is my education first approach. I take the time to help clients understand their skin, their triggers, and their goals before recommending advanced, results driven treatments. My background in clinical care allows me to merge medical knowledge with intentional aesthetics, creating personalized treatment plans focused on long term skin health and sustainability.
I am most proud of creating a space where clients feel seen, informed, and supported, especially those who have struggled with chronic skin concerns and felt overlooked in traditional beauty spaces. My mission with Shape Aesthetics is to continue educating and providing advanced treatments for individuals who are seeking wellness focused care and lasting confidence in their skin.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
The most important lesson I have learned throughout this journey is the value of gratitude, patience, and trusting the process. Growth requires a willingness to continue learning, elevating your education, and remaining open to knowledge, while also understanding that authenticity is essential to building trust and long term relationships.
For a long time, I questioned whether being naturally bubbly, personable, and expressive was professional enough. I later realized that those very qualities are what allow my clients to feel safe, seen, and comfortable. Embracing who I am has strengthened my confidence as a provider and reinforced that true client retention comes from genuine connection, not performance.
My personal experiences with hormonal acne also shaped how I approach care. During that time, I longed for someone who would explain what was happening internally, not just treat surface symptoms. Learning how rest, nutrition, stress management, and barrier support prepared my skin for advanced treatments transformed my understanding of skin health. That lesson now guides how I care for my clients.
I’ve learned that confidence does not come from changing who you are, but from understanding your body, honoring the process, and making informed, intentional choices. My work is rooted in helping clients build that confidence without feeling pressured to pursue invasive solutions, trusting that alignment and purpose will naturally bring the right people together.
Pricing:
- Glow Guidance Consultation $25 (virtual or in-person)
- Custom Glow Facial $120 includes ( complimentary consultation + skin analysis)
- Glow In Confidence Program $500 includes (multi-purpose monthly appointments, book-anytime access, specialist referrals, personalized dietary checklist, and exclusive merch)
Contact Info:
- Website: https://shapeaesthetics.glossgenius.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shape.aesthetics?igsh=azJxMGhuamdlZ3Vm&utm_source=qr
