Meet Damaris Andrade | Licensed Esthetician

We had the good fortune of connecting with Damaris Andrade and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Damaris, how do you think about risk?
If you would’ve asked me this a year ago, I probably would’ve said I don’t take risks because I don’t want to set myself up for failure. But I see it so differently now. If I hadn’t taken the risk to bet on myself and open a business that actually aligned with my goals and values, I’d still be stuck in the same mentality.

A lot of times I feel we avoid risks because we’re scared but being scared is a good thing. It means you care. Failure feels terrible in the moment, but I’ve learned it’s not the end of the world. We’re all just trying our best. You can start over, try again, there’s always something to learn.

Once I started taking risks, so many doors opened for me. That doesn’t mean I wasn’t scared…I was terrified, but I still did it. So now, I’m all about taking risks and doing it scared, but also giving it your all. There will be days you don’t feel like showing up, and that’s when the real work happens.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
What sets me apart is my approach with skincare: corrective, but always rooted in education. I’m passionate about spreading awareness, especially when it comes to acne. I want people to know there are other resources besides medication if they want to get clear. It shouldn’t be complicated, it shouldn’t require a 20-step routine. My goal is to empower people and be a partner in their journey. Acne can take such a toll on you, and I know firsthand what it’s like to not feel confident in your own skin. That’s why I’ve made it my mission to help change that.

I’m most proud that I’ve built a space where people feel safe, seen, and supported no matter where they’re at in their skin journey. It definitely wasn’t easy… I started from scratch, took some big risks, wore all the hats, but I leaned on my faith, stayed consistent, and never lost sight of my ‘why.’

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is to be grateful for every phase of your business, whether you have one client, you’re just getting started, or you’re booked and busy. Each phase teaches you something valuable, and sometimes you have to look back to really appreciate how far you’ve come.

What I want people to know is that when they choose Modern Skin Lab, they’re not just supporting another business, they’re supporting a dream. Their support helps me continue my education, take more advanced courses, and expand my knowledge so I can be an even better esthetician for them. I’m so grateful for my clients who spend their hard-earned money and choose me, because when my business grows, so does the experience and education I’m able to give back to them.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Honestly, I don’t have a set itinerary! Even after living in Dallas for a few years, I feel like I’m still exploring and finding new spots all the time. But if my best friend was visiting, I’d definitely take them to some of my favorite places I’ve discovered, like The Mexican for their food/desert, and probably the Botanical Gardens, especially in fall or winter when it’s all festive. Beyond that, I’d just play it by ear, wander through neighborhoods, check out cool coffee shops or little hidden gems, and just explore in the city. That’s the fun part in my opinion, you never know what you’ll find!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
First and foremost, I have to recognize God. He’s the one who placed the ideas in me and opened so many doors. There were plenty of days and nights when I felt uncertain, but being guided by Him and knowing I’m on the right path is what keeps me going. I also want to recognize my family, friends, mentors, and clients who have turned into friends. It truly takes a village, and I’m so grateful for every single person who’s been part of my journey and supported me along the way.

Instagram: @modernskinlab

Image Credits
Headshot Photo by Gabby Marie @thegabbymarie
Device Photos by Allie Jones @aestheticsocialco