Today we’d like to introduce you to Pearl Alame
Hi Pearl, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
As a kid, I knew my parents couldn’t afford life’s little luxuries, so I got creative—selling scented pencils and mini bags of Hot Cheetos in elementary school to make some extra cash. Looking back, I realize I had an entrepreneurial spark before I even knew what that meant. My dad taught me early on how to be resourceful, work with my hands, and think outside the box—lessons that have stayed with me throughout my journey.
Life took a difficult turn when I lost my mother, leaving me feeling lost. Eventually, I went off to college and graduated from Cal State San Marcos, where I met my amazing husband and got married. It was during this time that I fell in love with lash extensions. My sister taught me the skill, and little did I know, that moment would change my life forever.
Determined to turn my passion into a career, I went back to school, earned my esthetics license, and started my business right out of my tiny two-bedroom apartment. My husband and brother-in-law were my biggest supporters, even when I had to kick them out for hours at a time to see clients. And let’s not forget my clients—true troopers who climbed all those flights of stairs just to get their lashes done! Now, we laugh about those humble beginnings as we enjoy my new private studio inside Ballyhoo Hair Salon. Looking around at the beautiful space I’ve built, I’m so grateful for this journey and the incredible people who have been part of it.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Definitely not a smooth road, but I believe that’s the best part of the journey. Growing up with scarcity and hardships fueled my motivation to build something of my own so my children would never have to struggle the way I did. One of my biggest challenges was not having the financial means to open a storefront right away, which made growth a slow process.
On top of that, one of the hardest struggles was learning how to live life without my mother. Losing her left a void that felt impossible to fill, and for a long time, I wasn’t sure how to move forward. But instead of letting grief consume me, I used it as fuel to chase my dreams and make her proud.
During COVID, I started practicing, but finding friends and family willing to let me work on them was a challenge in itself. Working out of my living room felt humbling—even embarrassing at times—but I persevered. I had no clear roadmap or financial backing, just a deep belief that I would make it happen. Every obstacle pushed me to work harder, be more resourceful, and trust in the process. Looking back, I wouldn’t change a thing because those struggles made me the entrepreneur I am today.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a Licensed Esthetician specializing in lash extensions, lash lifts, custom facials, body waxing, and vajacials. But beyond just the services I provide, I truly believe I have healing hands. My passion lies in making people feel beautiful from the inside out, and that’s what sets me apart.
What I’m most proud of is the way my work impacts my clients. Almost every day, I hear, ‘Thank you for making me feel beautiful,’ and that, to me, is everything. It reassures me that I’m not just enhancing appearances—I’m boosting confidence, self-love, and inner peace. When I do facials, my clients often tell me they completely relax, sometimes even drifting into the most peaceful dreams. That’s when I know I’m creating more than just a beauty experience; I’m offering a moment of serenity in their busy lives.
My goal is to make every client feel cared for, seen, and radiant—both inside and out. That’s the kind of difference I strive to make in this world.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
Yes! I absolutely love podcasts. My schedule is always packed, so I don’t always have time to sit down and read, but I take every chance I get to learn and grow. Whether I’m driving, working out, or setting up for a client, I’m usually listening to something that fuels my personal and professional growth. Podcasts focused on business, beauty, mindset, and self-improvement help me stay inspired and continue my education in a way that fits into my busy lifestyle. Learning never stops, and I truly believe that the more knowledge I gain, the better I can serve my clients and grow as an entrepreneur.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://purlyskin.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/purlyskin/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@PurlySkin
