Ink and Lashes: A Tale of Two Russian Sisters

Born and raised in Moscow, Natalya and Anna grew up in the fast paced world of Russia’s largest city. Both graduated with professional degrees from university and then their stories took two different paths that would intertwine in the United States several years later.

Natalya became an aesthetician after obtaining her degree from Moscow Medical College and University of Arts. It was the time of Perestroika and rebirth in post-Soviet Russia, and new ideas and opportunities were appearing overnight. Natalya’s passion for art made her restless for something more challenging and creative, and upon discovering permanent makeup, she absolutely fell in love with it. She began to learn the concept of converting traditional tattoo’s into an exclusive cosmetic method, and eager clients began to appear.

Her reputation as a skilled perfectionist in permanent cosmetics grew, leading her to expand her services into the medical field. Many clients with post-surgical scars, blemishes or visible injuries found refuge in a technique that diminished unsightly marks. Physicians also saw the value of referring their clients to Natalya as a way of restoring the patient’s self-esteem and appearance.

“The permanent cosmetic injury moves quickly, every few months there are new products, and techniques to learn, that can help your clients. I have been continuously learning and growing since the beginning,” says, Leon.

Natalya also took her expertise to Munich Germany where she became a teacher at the Long-Time-Liner school for contour makeup. She also taught groups of students in Moscow, where her process was regarded for it’s results and client satisfaction.

Natalya achieved great success as a studio owner, and master teacher of permanent make up. Her sister Anna, had relocated to the United States and Natalya visited her few times. That’s when she was inspired to seek a life abroad as she saw endless opportunities to share what she can do the best and grow even more.

Anna had a degree in Engineering, but the process of converting it for acceptance in the US made her consider other alternatives. She also had an artistic and creative vision, and started a successful nail salon in Tampa, Florida. But Anna’s interest was much greater than fingernails alone. She had developed a technique with eye lash extensions that had clients lining up for appointments.

“The business was great, the problem was the lack of quality materials to make great eyelashes that last and look gorgeous,” Says Anna as she sorts through an assortment of small bottles and tools. “I had to find different sources for the best adhesive, lashes, tweezers and so on.”

The result became her brand, Lash Philosophy, a customized best of breed lash extension package that can be purchased online or through licensed distributers.

Fast Forward to Tampa, Florida in May 2018. The two sisters are together again as the Lash Philosphy boutique has just opened and Natalya has joined Anna in combining their exclusive services together in one location.

The modern facility, offers both permanent cosmetics, lashes and the occasional high end manicure.

But, don’t think this is just eyebrows and extensions. There is a lot more to explore at Lash Philosophy. Natalya detailed a new procedure that sounds like a huge time saver for women, it’s called “Glow-Face” and it works like a makeup camouflage. Much in the way foundation or cover up is used, a client can now have their exact pigmentation matched and applied with complimenting color for cheekbone enhancement. The results? Amazing looking skin, with no blemishes, and it lasts for months to years with routine touch ups.

Imagine the time you would save by waking up with the perfect skin tone, eyebrows and glowing complexion…

If you’re interested in learning more about the services offered by these two ambitious sisters, you can book an apoointment or stop by their boutique at: