Putnam County had 315 women-owned businesses with employees in 2022
By Heather Thomas, Upper Cumberland Business Journal
Business ownership transitions often fly under the radar, but in today’s economy they can mark pivotal moments of growth and renewal. That’s exactly what’s happening at SkinDeep, Cookeville’s established medical spa, where new owner Leah Carpenter is stepping in to lead the business into its next chapter with a rebrand to Skin Deep Beauty.
For Carpenter, the acquisition is more than just a career move. It’s a homecoming to Tennessee, a strategic investment, and a chance to join a rising tide of women entrepreneurs in the Upper Cumberland. “I’m so impressed by the powerful women entrepreneurs in this community…I’ve never seen anything like it. It’s energizing to be a part of it, and I love how everyone is so supportive of each other’s growth and success.”
Women are a Growing Force in Local Businesses
Putnam County had 315 women-owned businesses with employees in 2022, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Statewide, women own 43.3% of all businesses across Tennessee. With her acquisition, Carpenter joins this growing network of female business leaders shaping local industries from health and wellness to technology, retail and manufacturing.
A Business Acquisition with Strategic Potential
Since 2013, Stephenie and Dr. Michael Pippin started building SkinDeep’s reputation as a trusted provider of aesthetic and medical-grade services. The Pippins remain actively involved, but the decision to “pass the torch” to Carpenter marks an intentional transition that balances continuity with fresh leadership.
For Carpenter, the acquisition represents an opportunity to apply her diverse skill set, an MBA in International Business and a career in corporate leadership—to a service-driven, consumer-facing business.
“I wanted to take my business knowledge and apply it in a way that makes a direct impact on people’s lives,” Carpenter explains. “SkinDeep offered the perfect balance of established success and room to grow.”
Market Momentum
The U.S. med spa market was valued at $7.1 billion in 2023 and is projected to nearly double by 2030, according to Grand View Research. Med spas sit at the intersection of healthcare and beauty, offering non-invasive treatments like Botox, dermal fillers and laser therapies—services that fit consumer demand for quick, effective and science-backed results. In Cookeville, Skin Deep Beauty is positioning itself as a market leader in a community where demand continues to rise. Locally, there are approximately 30,000 women between ages 16 and 70, which is a prime demographic for these services.
While most clients are women (about 88% nationally), industry reports note that men are a growing segment, especially younger men ages 18–34. Male clients also tend to spend 13% more per visit than female clients. For Carpenter, this presents both an established customer base and a new growth opportunity. Carpenter says. “there’s an exciting opportunity to educate the benefits these treatments and services can make in the lives of new clients, men especially.”
Leadership & Growing Team
Carpenter’s leadership comes with the advantage of inheriting a seasoned, skilled team, but she is already growing her team. Longtime injector Stephenie Pippin continues to provide expertise in procedures like Botox and sclerotherapy. Katina Fryar most recently joined the team as a Nurse Injector, bringing clinical precision and aesthetic artistry, as well as expertise in laser treatments. Licensed estheticians and laser technicians, including Kassidy Roberts, Emma Muncy, and Baylor Johnston bring amazing talent to each client experience. This strong and passionate team offers a breadth of skincare and aesthetic services. Ashley Robinson, the office manager, is known for her welcoming style, and Dr. Michael Pippin remains on board as medical director.
“SkinDeep’s team is one of its greatest assets,” Carpenter emphasizes. “They bring both technical skill and a deep sense of care for our clients. That’s a culture I’m committed to maintaining and growing.”
Vision for the Future
Carpenter’s short-term focus is on smooth transition, client continuity and support for the excellent team. Longer term, she sees opportunity in expanding membership programs, introducing new technologies, and strengthening community partnerships.
“I want our growing Med Spa to continue to be the premier destination for aesthetics in Cookeville, but also to be a leader in client education, wellness and community engagement,” she says.
For Putnam County’s business community, Carpenter’s acquisition of SkinDeep highlights two important dynamics: the power of succession planning in established businesses, and the enormous growth potential in the health and beauty sector.
Skin Deep Beauty’s new ownership marks more than just a business acquisition. It’s a case study in how women entrepreneurs are reshaping local economies – and how the booming beauty and wellness market is opening new opportunities in the Upper Cumberland.
Photo provided.
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