She Means Business: Christy Salafia’s Journey to il-LUMA-nate

For Christy Salafia, nursing was never just a career—it was a calling. With a deep-rooted belief in the power of compassion and human connection, she pursued a path in healthcare that led her to the fast-paced and high-pressure environment of the Cardiac Surgery ICU at Strong Memorial Hospital. As a new graduate RN, Christy faced immense challenges but embraced the opportunity to learn from top medical professionals, pushing herself to grow in a demanding field. Yet, despite the fulfillment she found in patient care, a deeper calling was waiting to be discovered.

The shift from traditional medicine to aesthetics wasn’t an easy one. Initially, Christy grappled with feelings of guilt, questioning whether she was leaving behind meaningful work for something less impactful. However, she soon realized that confidence and self-perception are integral to overall well-being. Inspired by her own experience and those around her, she saw firsthand how aesthetic treatments could empower individuals, helping them feel their best inside and out. This revelation led to the birth of il-LUMA-nate—a space where beauty meets purpose, and where Christy could blend her passion for patient care with a more balanced personal life.

At the heart of il-LUMA-nate is Christy’s unwavering commitment to ethical, patient-centered care. Named after her daughters, Lucy and Mara, the practice embodies her philosophy of helping clients become the brightest versions of themselves. Together with her trusted right-hand, Alexx, she has built a welcoming environment where education, empowerment, and authenticity are key. Offering a range of treatments from injectables to skincare, il-LUMA-nate prioritizes a natural, personalized approach that resonates with clients seeking both aesthetic enhancements and a supportive experience.

Beyond business, Christy is a devoted mother and wife, balancing entrepreneurship with her most cherished role—raising strong, confident daughters. She attributes much of her success to the unwavering support of her husband, family, and community, emphasizing that building a business is never a solo journey. Her advice to aspiring women entrepreneurs? Never lose sight of your initial goal. Whether in medicine, aesthetics, or any field, integrity and passion should always guide the way.

Christy’s journey is a testament to the power of transformation—not just in beauty, but in life itself. Through il-LUMA-nate, she continues to illuminate the path for others, proving that when passion and purpose align, success is inevitable.

Background & Journey into Aesthetics

Can you share a bit about your background and what led you to a career in nursing?
I became a registered nurse because I believe in the power of compassion, healing, and human connection. Nursing isn’t just a job—it’s a calling, a privilege to stand beside people in their most vulnerable moments and make a difference. Every day, I have the chance to ease pain, offer hope, and advocate for those who need it most. The challenges are real, but so is the impact. Whether it’s holding a patient’s hand, celebrating a small victory, or fighting for better care, I know that what I do matters. Nursing is more than a profession to me—it’s my purpose.

What was it like working in the Cardiac Surgery ICU at Strong Memorial Hospital?
Working in the cardiac ICU at Strong as a new graduate RN began as a challenge if I’m being honest. This was the first year that Strong was accepting new graduate RNs into the cardiac ICU and I was going to face it head on. At the time I “didn’t know what I didn’t know” and was so eager to learn from the amazingly talented doctors and nurses that were willing to teach me. This environment pushed me to my limits but I can only hope that the impact I made makes every challenge worth it.

What inspired your transition from surgical nursing to the field of aesthetics?
In short, my ultimate purpose in life is being a mother. I have always had a genuine desire to care for others, but no desire has been greater than having a family of my own, with children who are the center of my world. Aesthetics has allowed me to align my passion for caring for people with my personal life and family goals. Through my transition from the hospital and acute care environment to the outpatient and aesthetic world, I have been able to balance being both a mom and a caregiver to my children, as well as to my amazing patients.

Was there a specific moment when you knew aesthetics was your true calling?
If Im being honest, it was my sister who is 2.5 years younger than me who first mentioned that she had gotten Botox. It was in that moment I realized I needed to follow her younger, wiser footsteps and try it myself. Fortunately, I was in the right place at the right time, surrounded by two incredibly talented injectors who were not only willing to give me a shot but also taught me how to translate my hospital knowledge into aesthetic practice.

What was the biggest challenge in making the shift from traditional medicine to aesthetic medicine?
When I first made the shift from traditional medicine to aesthetics, I struggled with feelings of failure. There was a time when I believed that only hospital-based nursing was truly impactful. I worried that by focusing on outward healing rather than healing from within, I was selling myself short. I even feared that my years of education and experience in acute care would be wasted by focusing on a persons external appearance.

I quickly came to realize that how a person perceives their appearance can have a profound impact on their internal healing and well-being.

How has your experience in surgery and patient care influenced your approach to aesthetics?
During my time in the operating room, I quickly learned the critical importance of sterile technique and how unforgiving mistakes can be. Life is precious and fragile, and this experience taught me to appreciate how every detail no matter how big or small truly matters.

Building ilLUMAnate

The name ilLUMAnate is beautiful and meaningful—can you share the story behind it?
Il-LUMA-Nate was a beautiful realization that I could do things “better,” better in the sense that I could be more personally fulfilled while practicing in the most ethical way I know. My daughters, Lucy and Mara, are the inspiration behind the name of this business, as they are the driving force in my life and the constant motivation behind everything I do.

What is your philosophy when it comes to beauty and aesthetics?
My philosophy with aesthetics is “be the brightest version of you.” My goal is to help you achieve yours.

What sets ilLUMAnate apart from other aesthetic practices in Rochester?
At Il-LUMA-Nate, what truly sets us apart is that we are everyday women who are committed to becoming the best versions of ourselves, and we are passionate about helping you do the same. Alexx has been an incredible driving force behind our business and my trusted right-hand. I would never have had the confidence to launch this venture without her unwavering support. I am deeply grateful for her exceptional attitude, dedication, and work ethic. Surrounding myself with such strong, competent individuals has inspired me to grow both personally and professionally, and has empowered me to be a better leader and provider.

One unique aspect of Il-LUMA-nate is that we begin seeing patients at 7 a.m. While this schedule aligns with my personal routine and home life, I’ve found that many clients truly appreciate the opportunity to get an early appointment and cross it off their to-do list for the day.

What are some of the most popular treatments at your practice, and why do you think they resonate with clients?
I always feel its important to caution clients that aesthetics can be a delicate journey, and we can often be our own harshest critics. It is easy to focus on one concern only to immediately shift our attention to another. My ultimate goal is to ensure that every woman and man who walks through our doors feels seen, validated, and heard. I promise to always offer my best advice, treating you with the same care and respect I would want for my own family. Sometimes, that means not recommending a treatment at all, but simply listening and understanding your needs. I never want anyone to feel pressured. Building a trusting, supportive relationship with each of my clients is something I value deeply.

Often, I recommend taking small, thoughtful steps toward your goals. In many cases, less truly is more and sometimes a subtle change is all it takes to give you the confidence boost you are looking for.

At il-LUMA-nate, some of the most common treatments we offer include injectables like Botox/Dysport and fillers. We believe in treating the skin both beneath and on the surface, which is why we also provide facials, chemical peels, laser treatments, and microneedling. Medical-grade skincare is a game changer and the best way to enhance the results of in-office treatments. Our consultations are always free, and we are committed to helping you develop and customize a treatment plan tailored to your individual needs.

Many people are hesitant about aesthetic procedures—how do you help clients feel comfortable and confident in their decisions?
Education is invaluable, and I am committed to using mine to empower and elevate my clients. It is essential to establish clear goals and expectations, and then work together to determine the most effective course of action that aligns with those aspirations.

What do you love most about helping clients on their aesthetic journeys?
A smile is all I need to know that my job is complete. My goal is for every person who walks through our doors to leave feeling better than when they arrived. Whether that means a consultation, treatment, or touch-up, we aim to have a positive impact on your day and your perception of yourself.

Work-Life Balance & Personal Life

As a busy entrepreneur and mother, how do you balance running ilLUMAnate with family life?
il-LUMA-nate has given me the opportunity to prioritize my most important role of being a mom. My passion for helping others feel good has been made possible through the unwavering support of my family, my husband, and my loyal clients. The love and support I receive in my life are truly priceless, and I could never fully repay the gratitude I feel for all of it.

How has being a mother influenced your approach to business and patient care?
Being a mother of daughters has led me to reflect deeply on how I want to raise them to be strong, confident, and independent women. While I hope they will always embrace their natural beauty and never focus on perceived flaws, I also want them to have the confidence to pursue what truly makes them happy and the success to support any changes they choose to make along the way

Your husband has been a big support in your journey—how has that partnership helped shape your business?
My husband is my rock, my constant source of encouragement, and my partner in helping me wear all the hats that are so important to me.

When I embarked on the journey of starting a new business, I found myself in uncharted territory. Naturally, I am a nurse, a healer, and a caregiver, but I had to learn how to be a business owner and office manager, all while continuing to be a mother, wife, and injector.

I quickly understood the true meaning of it takes a village, and I am forever grateful for the unwavering support and positivity from my husband, parents, sister, in-laws, clients, friends, and family. The past two years would not have been possible without your love, encouragement, and belief in me.

What is one piece of advice you’d give to other women looking to follow their passions and start their own businesses?
To all the women and men looking to follow their passion and start their own business, I encourage you to never lose sight of your initial goal. For me, that goal was simple: to leave everyone I encounter better than I found them. Nursing is a healing art, and healing can take many forms whether physical, emotional, or mental. Every person you serve is significant, and their well-being must always come first.

As a medical provider, it is crucial to remember that your first obligation is to do no harm. If the motivation to pursue aesthetics is driven solely by financial gain rather than a commitment to ethical patient care, it may be time to reconsider your career path. Always prioritize the health, safety, and dignity of your patients above all else.

Future of Aesthetics & Final Thoughts

What trends do you see emerging in the world of aesthetics that excite you?
I am truly excited about the potential of regenerative medicine and its ability to transform the field of aesthetics. It is an incredible opportunity to be part of a movement that aims to achieve the best possible results with minimal downtime. My goal is to help my patients feel like the brightest, most confident versions of themselves, and I look forward to being a part of that journey.

What’s next for ilLUMAnate? Any exciting plans for the future?
I am excited to continue growing Il-LUMA-Nate, touching lives, and restoring confidence along the way. My vision is for our space to always be a place where the community can turn for honest, reliable, and ethical aesthetic treatments rooted in medical knowledge and experience without ever compromising on quality.