Women in Aesthetics: Cara Parchment

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

I got my start in the aesthetics field through a bit of an unexpected path. After graduating college in 2010, I began my career in e-commerce, working for a local company that resold high-end designer goods. In 2016, after taking time off to have my child, I reentered the workforce and started working part-time at Octane. What began as a flexible opportunity quickly evolved as I became more involved in growing our ophthalmology conference. Through that experience, I gained exposure to adjacent specialties, which naturally led me into the aesthetics and cardiovascular spaces. At the time, I drew heavily on lessons learned from the Ophthalmology Technology Forum that Octane created 14 years ago. Our vertical conference models focus on innovation, collaboration, and industry dialogue.

We saw an opportunity to bring the same level of thoughtful discussion and cross-industry collaboration to aesthetics. Since then, the conference has grown into a platform where clinicians, innovators, and industry leaders can exchange ideas, explore emerging technologies, and help shape the future of the field.

HOW HAVE MENTORS INFLUENCED YOUR CAREER? 

Working for my father, Bill Carpou, has had a profound influence on my career and how I approach my work. From an early stage, I had a front-row seat to his leadership style—how he builds relationships, thinks strategically, and stays deeply committed to creating value for the communities he serves.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve taken from him is the importance of leading with integrity while still thinking big. He has always emphasized the power of connection—bringing the right people together to spark innovation, which is something I’ve carried into my own work, especially when building and growing conferences.

At the same time, working for a parent comes with its own unique dynamics. It pushed me to establish my voice, earn credibility independently, and hold myself to a high standard. That experience ultimately shaped my confidence, work ethic, and ability to lead with both empathy and accountability. 

WHAT DO SUCCESSFUL PRACTICES NEED TO DO TO THRIVE IN THIS COMPETITIVE MARKET?  

In today’s highly competitive aesthetics market, successful practices need to think far beyond just delivering great clinical results—those are now the baseline. The practices that are really thriving are the ones operating like sophisticated, patient-centered brands.

What we continue to see is that patients are increasingly educated, and therefore the patient experience has to be exceptional and seamless. From the first Instagram touchpoint to post-treatment follow-up, every interaction should feel elevated, personalized, and consistent. Convenience, communication, and emotional connection matter just as much as patient outcomes.

We can all agree that investing in technology and data is no longer optional; it is a must. Practices that leverage CRM systems, track patient journeys, and use data to personalize treatments are gaining a major edge. It’s not just about having the latest device. It’s about using insights and data results to drive retention and lifelong value. Social media before-and-afters, educational content, and authentic storytelling all play a role in building credibility. Patients want authenticity and relatability, not overly polished marketing.

Continuous education and staying on top of new technologies and trends are essential. The aesthetics field evolves rapidly. The most successful providers are constantly learning, evaluating new innovations, and thoughtfully integrating the most important and valuable technologies into their practices.

At the end of the day, the practices that win are the ones that combine clinical excellence with a strong business mindset. They are not just providers. Rather, they are brands, educators, and experience creators. 

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

For women rising in aesthetics right now, the opportunity is huge. Those who stand out tend to be very intentional about how they build both their careers and their presence.

It is easy to feel pressure to offer everything at once. However, true growth comes from mastery. Whether it’s injectables, skincare, regenerative treatments, or the business side, depth builds confidence, reputation, and trust.

Secondly, treat your career like a brand, not just a job. Be thoughtful about how you show up online, in rooms, and in conversations. Your voice, your perspective, and your consistency are what people remember long after a treatment or meeting.

Third, don’t wait to be invited into rooms—put yourself in them. Go to conferences, introduce yourself to leaders, ask a lot of questions, and follow up. While I am not the best at networking, my job puts me in the room with some of the smartest experts in the world. Relationships drive the aesthetic industry more than almost anything else, and access often comes from initiative. 

Fourth, build real confidence, not just visible confidence. There will be moments when you’re the youngest, the newest, or the only woman at the table. Preparation, consistency, and integrity will carry you further than trying to prove yourself in the moment.

And finally, play the long game. It’s tempting to chase trends or quick visibility, but lasting success comes from trust, relationships, and a strong reputation built over time. There is a lot of room at the top in aesthetics, but the women who rise the fastest and stay there are those who excel at their craft and are very intentional about how they grow.

WHERE IS THE MEDICAL AESTHETICS FIELD GOING IN THE SHORT/LONG TERM? 

The old model of fixing it once has slowly moved to a new model of continuously maintaining appearance and longevity. One of the things I enjoy most in this field is discovering something unique that makes a real difference for patients, doctors, scientists, and creators. You never know when you may come upon something that really gets your juices going. It can be a wonderful surprise!

WHAT IS A TIP FOR HOW TO GET READY FOR THE FUTURE? 

Stay curious. There is always something new on the horizon. Keep an open mind before dismissing anything or anyone.

If you are not sure about it, ask a trusted colleague. The thing or person you are least inclined to jump on can be the thing makes the biggest difference for you.