Treat Yourself with Skin Care by Gabriela

Skin Care by Gabriela is a boutique-style spa with a welcoming atmosphere and inviting space for serenity.

The luxury antiaging facial this writer received included dermaplaning, which is a removal of dead skin cells and an exfoliating electric brush that immediately improves skin tone and texture. The procedure is followed with a steamer and skin analysis by the aesthetician. After removal of open comedones caused by clogged pores, a cooling mask is applied for deep nourishment of the skin.

The most relaxing part is aromatherapy when the client chooses an oil with an aromatic smell such as rose, lavender, or lemongrass. The facial massage with the heavenly smell of the facial oils is dreamy; you can gently drift into relaxation and doze off in comfort. The massage included shoulder, back, and neck. It was an experience to remember as the skin feels soft, refreshed, and glowing.

The story of the owner, Natasha Girgorian, is quite remarkable. Originally from a small-town Southern Russia, in the former Soviet Union during the Brezhnev Era of Stagnation, she lived a simple life without modern luxuries, yet she remembers her time there fondly as a nice, calm childhood. Originally, she wanted to pursue a medical career as a physician.

A family friend, who was also her family doctor, invited her to their clinic to observe the practice firsthand. However, after spending time observing, Girgorian realized that while she was drawn to medicine, she didn’t want to pursue a medical career in the traditional sense. And consequently, she decided to seek a career as an aesthetician, a transition that allowed her to combine her clinical interests with her passion for aesthetics.

At that time, there were only three prominent cosmetic schools in Russia — located in Moscow, Southern Russia, and Eastern Russia. As a result, the acceptance rate was very low, and competition was extremely high. The schools were supervised by the Ministry of Health, so the training and curriculum were medically based, with a strong focus on clinical skills.

Many of the cosmetic products made in Russia back then were organic and natural, created from ingredients sourced at local markets, as there was limited access to specialized compounds needed for cosmetics. Russian women placed great importance on skincare, as it was one of the few ways they could maintain pride in their appearance, since fashion and luxury items were not available. They made their own treatments at home using simple ingredients like yogurt and cucumber for facial masks and eye care.

Girgorian moved to Atlanta from Russia in 2000 to be with relatives. She describes it as a “flee,” running away with her husband and daughter, Julia. It was well-kept secret, no one knew, not even close friends and extended family as it was dangerous.

As Vladmir Putin rose to power in December 1999, everything changed for the worse. The government, KGB, together with the Russian mobs, were increasingly taking control of businesses, threatening owners, and disrupting the simple life Girgorian’s family once knew. This period in Russian history marked the beginning of a dictatorship — a radical and oppressive system that has lasted 27 years and continues to this day. Her husband’s business became a target. The regime imposed unreasonable demands, including claiming 50 percent of the profits and more. It didn’t feel safe or like home anymore and she wanted to escape.

Upon arriving in Atlanta, Girgorian met Gabriela and started to work as a receptionist at the spa. Not knowing much English, she was determined to learn quickly. She did so by watching TV shows such as “Friends” and “Seinfeld,” and worked hard at reading and writing. The customers at the spa were very kind and welcoming.

Not long after, Girgorian became a top aesthetician. Her kindness, personal approach, and vast knowledge were a big benefit, and she became a favorite of all customers. In 2008, Gabriela retired to focus on family matters and sold the spa to Girgorian. At the time of the transition, she decided to keep the name to honor her friend who was the founder, as well as making it easier for her customers.

Girgorian and her daughter believe in clean, green cosmetics which is why they created their own skin care line called Navinka, which means “new.” The line is 100 percent clean without dangerous chemicals. The preservatives in the products are natural, beneficial for the skin, and have long-lasting results.

The relationship between the clients, Girgorian, and her staff has remained strong for almost two decades. The goal has always been to ensure clients feel safe and personally connected. It’s not a typical spa but rather a unique skin care boutique.

Skin Care by Gabriela has two locations:
Shallowford: 3162 Johnson Ferry Rd, Suite #230 | 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday | 770 641-1888
Paper Mill: 255 Village Parkway Suite #150 | 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday to Thursday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday and Saturday | 770-226-9990