Esthetics

Alexas Gates

Esthetics Instructor

Ms. Alexas Gates is a Master Esthetician and licensed educator specializing in advanced
and medical esthetics. With years of industry experience she brings current techniques,
clinical knowledge, and practical insight into the classroom. Alexas is passionate about
bridging education and real world practice ensuring students graduate confident,
capable, and career ready.

Leigh Ann Puckett

Esthetics Instructor

Leigh Anne has been a Master esthetician since 2011 and Master Esthetics Instructor since 2021
when she started with Lotus. She’s taught both in the basic and master programs but finds her
passion in the Master modalities and education, and has been teaching masters exclusively for
the last 3 semesters. She brings years of experience from both the medical esthetics and spa
industries into her instruction with a major focus on client education and finding out the why-
why does the skin react this way? Why is this the best ingredient choice? Etc.

Her greatest passion is creating an environment for independence and critical thinking so that
when students graduate her class, they feel ready and confident in their field. She looks to add a
bit of humor to her lectures and loves classic dad jokes/puns- the cornier the better. In her
personal time, she’s an avid reader and cook/baker. She and her husband enjoy fawning over
their fur babies and enjoying Richmond’s varied food and culture experiences.

Anissa Thorns

Esthetics Instructor

Anissa Thorns is a retired military veteran and dedicated esthetics instructor who has
transformed a life of service into passion for skincare, education, and empowerment. Her
teaching style is structured, nurturing, and highly interactive blending military- level
organization with compassion and real-world esthetics experience. As an online
instructor, she prefers case-based discussions and creative assignments—such as
presentations about global skincare—to support diverse learning styles and foster
engagement and confidence. Mrs. Anissa sets high professional standards for students and
supports them, so they are confident and ready for real-world esthetics work.

Ligia Rodrigues

Instructor

I’ve spent 17 years in the beauty industry, specializing in waxing, acne care, and facial/ body massage; working in spas, salons, and private schools across the UK.I’m a powerlifting champ, bodybuilding amateur, and firm believer that cold drinks are a crime (hot coffee or tea only, thanks). My teaching style? Direct, a bit sarcastic, and all about building confident, capable professionals in the wellness world. I’m here to help shape the next generation of estheticians, with high standards, good laughs, and serious results.

Veronica Gayle

Esthetics Instructor

Veronica Gayle is a licensed esthetician and esthetics instructor with 7 years of experience in the skincare industry and 2 years of experience in education. She brings real-world knowledge and hands-on expertise into the classroom, helping students bridge the gap between theory and practice. Passionate about mentorship and student success, Veronica is dedicated to creating a supportive and engaging learning environment where students can build confidence, master essential esthetics techniques, and develop the professionalism needed for long-term success in the industry.

Tammy Sawyer

Esthetics Instructor

Alisha White

Esthetics Instructor/Clinic Supervisor

Lauren Abel

Esthetics Instructor

Jasmine Gray

Esthetics Instructor