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Essence received a Sothy’s longevity award in 2019. In 2020 both salons were awarded as a Sothys Brand Ambassador in recognition of commitment to the Sothys brand.

Essence is still under the same ownership. Barbara still works in the salons herself, along with up to 10 other highly qualified therapists.

The salon is now skin-focused, offering a large range of skincare and state of the art technology to treat all types of skin concerns and to help clients to achieve their skin goals.

Barbara was able to secure the final tenancy of the upper floor at Griffith shops and was able to expand to a total of 6 treatment rooms.

Essence Woden was born – a beautiful new purpose built 130 square metre, 6 treatment room salon was constructed in the magnificent Belluci’s building in Phillip.

The salon was growing in popularity and therefore when the next vacant tenancy popped up next door, the third expansion occurred.

An opportunity arose to expand the salon, doubling the size. A total renovation took place, and Barbara employed her first full-time therapist. Essence was the first salon in Canberra to introduce microdermabrasion and other new therapies that were embraced by the Canberra clientele.

The Australian skincare brand Ultraceuticals was added.

Essence was the vision of Barbara Duckworth, who created the first small 20 square metre salon space in the Griffith shopping precinct. Her goal was to deliver the most luxurious treatments in a boutique, Parisienne inspired environment, becoming a sought after and highly regarded skin specialist. The French skincare brand Sothys was chosen to match these goals.