Rachel Liverman launched Glowbar in 2019 with a decision to avoid distractions dressed as opportunities. She said no to hosting events in the Hamptons and South by Southwest, and turned down early collaborations with outside dermatologists. Those offers were tempting, but she referred to them as "shiny objects" that would have pulled her attention away from building a strong foundation, Liverman told Inc.
Glowbar launched with one purpose: consistent, professional skincare delivered in just 30 minutes. According to the Glowbar website, licensed estheticians treat each client based on their skin goals, with no upselling and no confusing treatment menus. Memberships are $65 a month and include one facial, discounts on products, and access to clinical-grade techniques like LED therapy and dermaplaning.
This clear structure allowed Glowbar to scale without chaos. From one storefront in Tribeca, the company grew to 20 locations across six states within three years. According to Inc., Glowbar ranked No. 409 on the Inc. 5000 list with a growth rate of 1,087 percent and is projected to bring in $16 million in revenue in 2024.
For years, customers asked when Glowbar would introduce its own skincare products but Liverman waited. She took inventory of her team and resources in 2022 and asked one question: "Do we have the people, the time, and the money?" When the answer aligned across all three, development on the company's first cleanser began, Liverman told Inc.
"As a founder, your instincts will always guide you," Liverman added. "At the beginning, I knew to stay focused and keep my eye on the prize."
Two and a half years later, Glowbar launched its debut product: the Expert Cleanser. According to the website, the $28 formula blends AHAs, PHAs, and white willow bark for gentle exfoliation and a deep, balanced cleanse. Liverman told Inc. that the product sold "extremely well," with members especially enthusiastic about using Glowbar's skincare at home between treatments.
Liverman didn't follow traditional beauty industry models. According to the Glowbar website, she comes from a family of skincare professionals as her grandmother opened the first accredited skincare institute in the U.S., but Glowbar's format is her own. Treatments last less than traditional ones, cost one flat fee, and deliver targeted results without the usual spa pricing or vague promises.