An Interview with Top Aesthetician – Dr. Rashmi Nandkishore

The Founder of Riva Institute of Aesthetics & Riva Laser Medical Clinic

Dr. Rashmi Nandkishore is the founder and managing director of Riva Laser Medical Center and Riva Institute of Aesthetics. Coming from the Silicon Valley of India (Bangalore) where she embarked on her journey to medicine, she is a successful entrepreneur running the best institute for beauty therapy in Dubai – Riva Institute of Aesthetics. She stated her first business in 2010, Riva International Spa. Ever since then, her journey has been marked with success and inspiring achievements. Here is more about Dr Rashmi in her own words …

Dr. Rashmi’s Career:

Dr. Rashmi: I started my journey to medicine at Kempegowda Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS), India. It was during my medical years that I met my husband, Dr. Nandkishore, a former student/alumni of KIMS college and currently a practicing internal medicine specialist at NMC hospital, Dubai. We are proud parents of two lovely daughters, Sonal and Sharon, who are currently pursuing their bachelor’s degree in medicine at Mohammad Bin Rashid University in Dubai.

Eighteen years ago, my family and I bid farewell to our homeland and moved to Dubai, when my husband was presented with a job opportunity here. I started off my career by working as a Center Manager and later, as the Head of Department of Beauty Therapy at Sharjah Institute of Technology. Although I was happy with my job, I wasn’t content because, growing up I always aspired to be a successful entrepreneur and my dream came to fruition when I started my first business, Riva International Spa, in October 2010, the inauguration of which was graced by Mr. B.R. Shetty, the founder of NMC Hospital.

A year later, I further expanded my business and opened the Riva Laser Medical Center both in Dubai and India. In 2020 after thorough consideration and meticulous planning, I converted Riva international Spa into Riva Institute of Aesthetics, which within a short period of time has become the number one institute for the beauty therapist course in the UAE.

Starting out, the world of business was new to me, and it took years of strategic thinking, teamwork, perseverance, innovation and taking risks that helped me create a legacy. Looking back, my professional status has had a significant impact on my life, and it has allowed me to pursue my all my passions while contributing to the wellbeing of the community.

About different courses at Riva Institute of Aesthetics:

Dr. Rashmi: At Riva Institute of Aesthetics, we provide a diverse range of courses to cater to different interests and career paths. Our therapist courses include beauty therapy, laser therapy, microblading, lip blush and several other aesthetic courses. Additionally, we offer diploma courses for those who are interested in pursuing a career in the beauty industry. These courses include beautician, hairdresser, nail technician, professional makeup, and semi-permanent makeup courses. We strive to offer a comprehensive range of courses that will equip our students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their chosen field.

Dr. Rashmi’s Views about Work-Life Balance:

Dr. Rashmi: As a fervent professional, I am consumed by my passion for work. I enjoy being involved in all aspects of running a business to counseling patients, enlightening students, and conducting exams.

Yet, I indulge in family activities; I halt my demanding work-life and embrace quality time with them. The happiness of being present with my loved ones is immeasurable. I relish in the simple pleasures of life, like watching a heartwarming movie, spending quality time with my daughters and indulging in scrumptious barbeque feasts.

What are common misconceptions about skin care? How to rise above them and have a fair skin care routine?

Dr. Rashmi: There are many common misconceptions about skincare that I’ve heard from my clients. For example, some believe that they shouldn’t use any products if their skin is sensitive, or that sunscreen is unnecessary if they’re going outside just for a short while. Others avoid using moisturizer because they have an oily skin, and some believe natural or organic products are 100% effective and can treat all skin conditions, including acne and pigmentation. A few people are afraid that chemical peels and laser treatments can lead to skin cancer. To rise above these misconceptions and establish a fair skincare routine, we first need to understand our skin type, whether it is normal, oily, dry, combination, or sensitive. If we are not sure, a skin expert can help us analyze our skin and recommend the right products. It may take some trial and error to find the right products, especially since our skin’s sebaceous gland activity changes with the seasons and environment. Ultimately, our goal should be to achieve a normal, healthy-looking skin that is soft, smooth, and free of blemishes or pigmentation.

Why is laser hair reduction recommended solution?

Dr. Rashmi: Many hair reduction procedures, such as waxing, threading, shaving, or hair removal creams, are not lifetime solutions and they do not reduce the density, thickness, or duration of hair growth. Laser hair removal, on the other hand, destroys and shrinks hair follicles, resulting in a reduction of hair density, thickness, and strength. After undergoing laser hair removal, clients will notice minimal hair growth, and the procedure also reduces ingrown hair. It’s a safe, effective, and long-lasting solution, making it the best option for clients who suffer from excessive hair growth.

A Great Experience in Dr. Rashmi’s Life:

Dr. Rashmi: Among the countless gratifying experiences that I can think of, there is one that stands out in vivid detail.

Recently, our institute was chosen by the prestigious Royal Atlantis to impart professional grooming training for their staff. The stakes were high, and the challenge was to train 160 employees in just two days, and each one of them had to receive personalized training. The enormity of the challenge was overwhelming, but we braced ourselves and dived headfirst into planning and executing the training.

As the clock ticked away, our team’s grit, determination, and hard work paid off, and we emerged victorious. The feeling of seeing 160 faces light up with newfound knowledge and confidence is indescribable. Such moments of triumph have propelled me to reach for the stars in my career. Every new challenge has only fueled my ambition to soar higher and achieve greater feats.

Her Views about the Future of Aesthetics:

Dr. Rashmi: The field of aesthetics is constantly evolving, and this has been the case since the time of Cleopatra. Globalization and increased interconnectedness have made aesthetic products and devices more accessible to people all over the world. This has led to a growing global market for advanced aesthetic devices, which has in turn motivated investors to invest in the development of new technologies. With current treatments, it’s possible to make a 60-year-old woman look like a 30-year-old. Perhaps in the future, we may even reach a point where we can prevent the signs of aging altogether, thanks to the advanced and innovative products and devices.

A Message for our Readers:

Dr. Rashmi: It is crucial to understand your skin type and determine the most suitable products for your skin. Don’t assume, what works for others will work for you. Resist the urge to try every product you come across on social media. Avoid using skin whitening steroid creams as they can have harmful long-term effects. Instead, establish a basic skincare routine that includes regular cleansing, occasional exfoliation, and the use of appropriate serum, moisturizer, sunscreen, and night creams based on your age and skin condition.