How Tara Turned Her Acne Struggles into a Career in Aesthetics

In this episode of the Pursue Your Passion podcast, Louis “The Laser Guy” Silberman reconnects with Tara, a licensed esthetician based in Chicago whose personal battle with acne led her to a rewarding career in medical aesthetics. After attending National Laser Institute nearly a decade ago, Tara transitioned from traditional spa treatments into advanced laser modalities—and never looked back.

Her first role at a high-volume med spa gave her hands-on experience with laser hair removal, IPL, and fractional technologies. Today, she works in the Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Department at Northwestern Medicine, where she provides corrective skincare treatments for both cosmetic and post-surgical patients. Tara shares how her training at NLI built the technical foundation that allowed her to grow into a respected provider in a clinical setting.

Now with years of experience behind her and a loyal client base, Tara continues to thrive in an industry she loves—one that blends science, empathy, and real transformation. Her journey proves that with the right education and passion, you can turn personal challenges into professional purpose.