Women in Aesthetics: Alesheia Randolph Bush, MBA

HOW AND WHEN DID YOU GET STARTED IN THE AESTHETICS FIELD?

My journey in aesthetics started in pharmaceuticals, where I spent more than 20 years. My career began with 13 years at GlaxoSmithKline before I was recruited by Allergan, one of the most well-known companies in medical aesthetics. I joined Allergan in July 2012 as the U.S. Marketing Operations and Promotion Solutions Lead, and later transitioning into International Sales and Marketing, where I managed international sales operations across more than 20 countries for SkinMedica. I also served as Country Manager for SkinMedica Canada, overseeing all direct sales operations. My time at Allergan deepened my expertise in the aesthetic market, providing a critical and relevant foundation for the work I would go on to do at ZO® Skin Health starting in 2018. Since then, I have held multiple leadership roles, including overseeing domestic and international sales, and now leading Thought Leader Engagement and Professional + Industry Relations.

WHO ARE SOME OF YOUR MENTORS WHO HAVE INFLUENCED YOU IN YOUR CAREER AND HOW?

I have been fortunate to have incredible mentors throughout my career. I have known Carrie Strom and Amber Edwards for more than a decade, and each has had a significant impact on my professional journey.

Carrie Strom has been Senior Vice President, AbbVie and President, Global Allergan Aesthetics. I have watched Carrie blossom in her career, earning positions of escalating responsibility and managing them with grace and precision. I admire her strength and leadership in the aesthetics industry and her ability to drive successful results across an organization. Despite the demanding workload, she is never too busy to offer an encouraging word or give sound advice.

Amber Edwards is Global Chief Executive Officer for Sinclair. I appreciate Amber’s strength and resilience. She has provided me with invaluable guidance on how to navigate the evolving aesthetics industry, not only remaining relevant but never settling and continuing to push the envelope to drive results.

Last but not least, the renowned Dr. Zein Obagi has been instrumental in shaping not only my understanding of skin health, but also the importance of a science-backed approach to skincare. His commitment to helping all individuals—regardless of ethnicity—achieve healthy skin has reinforced my belief in the power of physician-dispensed skincare and passion to continue to build upon his legacy as the founder of ZO® Skin Health. Each of these mentors has shaped my leadership style, business acumen, and commitment to the aesthetic space.

WHAT ARE YOUR PERSPECTIVES ON WHAT SUCCESSFUL PRACTICES NEED TO DO NOW TO THRIVE IN THIS COMPETITIVE MARKET?

Success in today’s aesthetic industry requires more than just offering great treatments. To thrive in this competitive market, I believe that practices must:

• Prioritize Skin Health First:Treatments are more effective when the skin is in optimal condition. Successful practices educate patients on medical-grade skincare as the foundation of any aesthetic journey.
• Combination Therapy and Procedures: Combining skincare, injectables, devices, and lifestyle factors leads to better, longer-lasting patient outcomes.
• Investment in Continuing Education: Aesthetic medicine is constantly evolving. Staying ahead of industry trends and participating in scientific conferences, training, and peer-to-peer education is critical.

WHAT SAGE ADVICE CAN YOU OFFER WOMEN WHO ARE RISING STARS IN AESTHETICS?

Find your tribe. Surround yourself with mentors, peers, and sponsors who support your growth. Don’t be afraid to seek advice, network, and collaborate with industry leaders.

Additionally, know your worth. Women in aesthetics should confidently own their knowledge and contributions. Whether as practitioners, business leaders, or educators, your expertise is valuable and shapes the world of aesthetics which we are in.

Finally, negotiate and advocate for yourself. Whether it’s for a leadership role, a speaking opportunity, or business growth, women bring diverse experience, ideas and unique strengths to the industry.

WHAT IS YOUR POINT OF VIEW ON WHERE MEDICAL AESTHETICS IS GOING IN THE SHORT/LONG TERM?

I believe that in the next 3 to 5 years, artificial intelligence will prove to be an incredibly powerful tool for our providers. It can help to augment what they do in practice and enhance the experience for patients.

Over the next 5 years and beyond, I hope that we see a rise of preventative aesthetics. In addition, advancements in skincare science—including new delivery systems, biotech innovations, and genetic-based formulations—will continue to revolutionize the industry.

The future of science-based skincare looks very bright with the myriad of new formulations entering the category. We value the education we continually offer to our team and clients to stay on top of skincare trends and consumer needs.

At ZO® Skin Health, we are proud to continue to invest in innovative ingredients and formulations that make a visible difference for our clients, and measurable results for their patience’s from their face to their body.