posted on: 11/11/2024
Otto Mitter’s journey in the beauty industry is one of inspiration—he’s a multi-award-winning lash and brow educator, product developer, cosmetic chemist, and brand builder with a career that spans more than two decades. His passion
and expertise have made him a respected authority in the industry, and his Elleebana brand stands as a testament to his dedication and vision.
Elleebana has become a global leader in lash and brow enhancement products and education, with its offerings available in over 60 countries. Under Mitter’s leadership, Elleebana has set standards for the industry by consistently pushing the boundaries of innovation. Elleebana’s commitment to research and development ensures that the brand stays ahead of industry challenges and meets the evolving needs of beauty professionals worldwide.
Elleebana has earned its reputation through a constant commitment to innovation and has set standards in the lash and brow industry. The brand continually invests in research and development to address industry challenges and meet the evolving needs of beauty professionals. The most recent offering—Elleeplex Profusion—has captured the hearts of the lash and brow industry by offering an innovative system that takes the worrying out of overprocessing lashes and brows, which has been one of the biggest fears for lash and brow artists who offer lash-lifting services. An important part of the success for Elleebana is coming up with solutions that help lash and brow artists in the worldwide community. Elleebana set the trend by having the world’s fastest system, helping artists with efficiency in results and profitability. The brand also tailors its offerings to have a system that will not damage lashes and brows and that allows forgiveness with mistakes during the application process; this was a revolutionary step for the lash lift industry and changed the game.
Mitter’s expertise in lash and brow lamination and coloration has made him a sought-after speaker at exhibitions and conferences worldwide. He has showcased lash lift versatility around the globe with the highly acclaimed session, “Freestyle Lash Lift vs. Original Method,” which shares exclusive insights into the evolving nature and nuances of lash lift methods. The Freestyle Lash Lift represents a significant evolution in lash treatment, offering versatility and superior outcomes compared to traditional methods and contributing to salon profitability. The success of this session resulted in invitations to present at the International Cosmetics and Spa Convention in Las Vegas in 2024 with 250 attendees, at LashBoss in Texas with 300 beauticians, and at Australia Beauty Expo.
A key factor behind Elleebana’s success is its strong sense of community. Mitter has fostered a global network of educators, distributors, and salon professionals who share his passion for the industry. This community-driven approach has been instrumental in building the brand’s reputation and fostering loyalty among its customers. Mitter firmly believes that while high-quality products are essential, it’s the people behind the brand who truly set it apart. The culture of collaboration, support, and shared values at Elleebana has created a sense of belonging that resonates with lash artists and salon owners around the world.
Through his leadership, Mitter has built not only a brand but also a movement. Elleebana’s growth and success are driven by the power of its community and its commitment to quality, innovation, and excellence. As the lash and brow industry continues to evolve, Mitter and Elleebana remain at the forefront, leading the way with cutting-edge products, expert education, and an unwavering dedication to beauty professionals.
Meet Kileigh Johnson, Elleebana Master Educator
Kileigh Johnson is an award-winning lash lift artist, master educator for Elleebana, and lash and brow competition judge. With more than 10 years of experience as a licensed esthetician, Johnson brings her passion for beauty and expertise in lash and brow treatments to the forefront, inspiring students and clients alike. Dedicated to excellence and innovation in the industry, she continues to elevate the standards of education and artistry. AHP Indie Stylist caught up with the lash and brow expert to learn more.
AHP Indie Stylist: What’s your favorite treatment?
Kileigh Johnson: Lash lifts, because they offer such a stunning, natural enhancement without the need for extensions or heavy maintenance. The transformation is instant, boosting clients’ confidence by accentuating their eyes with minimal effort on the clients’ part. I love that it’s a quick service, yet the results are long-lasting and low maintenance. It’s such a rewarding treatment to perform, knowing the impact it can have on someone’s daily routine and self-esteem.
IS: What advice do you have for new professionals?
KJ: My advice is to never stop learning. The beauty industry is always evolving, so staying curious and open to new techniques and innovations will keep you ahead. Building genuine relationships with clients and providing exceptional service will set you apart and lead to long-term success. It’s also important to focus on mastering your foundational skills while continuously learning new techniques. Never underestimate the power of great client relationships—building trust through excellent service is key to long-term success.
IS: Why should pros add lash and brow services to their menu?
KJ: It’s a game changer because these treatments are in high demand and offer great results with minimal time investment. Lash lifts and brow laminations, for example, provide clients with noticeable enhancements that are long-lasting and low maintenance. These services are profitable and create loyal, repeat clients who appreciate how these small changes can have such a significant impact on their overall look.
Kileigh Johnson’s Product Picks
Elleeplex Hyaluronic Boost Serum
Born from the desire to restore vitality and hydration to eyelashes and brows, this product contains sodium hyaluronate for intense moisturizing and maximum volume; wheat, soy, and corn proteins to help restore structure and strength; and an innovative blend of peptides such as acetyl hexapeptide-8 and pentapeptide-18. Bonus: vegan-friendly formula.
Elleeplex Advanced Aftercare
Leading the way in lash lift aftercare! The formula is enriched with proteins, amino acids, and vitamin complex and includes sunflower oil extract and an antioxidant to help protect hair. Other ingredients include keratin, biotin, arginine, hydrolyzed collagen, allantoin, and panthenol. Specially formulated to help restore proteins, speed up cell generation, increase potassium channels in the cells, and increase moisture levels to the hair.
Elleefix Brow Styling Wax
Elleefix is hypoallergenic, has a superior long-lasting hold, and can be used after a brow lamination and on nonlaminated brows. The vegan-friendly formula includes sunflower oil extracts, argan oil extracts, vitamin E, vitamin B5, and cocoyl glutamic acid.
Elleevate Lash Lift Mascara
Elleevate contains a superior blend of arginine and biotin, boosting length and volume while providing daily nourishment and strength.