Today we’d like to introduce you to Dayana Lopez.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My story really started long before I became an esthetician. I studied business because I always knew I wanted something of my own, even though I wasn’t sure what direction life would take me. Around that time, I started messing around with DIY skincare at home just out of curiosity. I didn’t know where it would go, I just loved creating.
When I found esthetics, everything clicked instantly. The mix of creativity, science, and hands-on work felt like the perfect fit. After graduating, I went straight into the industry to learn as much as I could. I took extra trainings, continued my education, and really focused on growing my skills.
Eventually, I felt called to go independent. That’s when Minerva Skin Essentials was born in late 2022. The name Minerva comes from the Roman goddess of wisdom, creativity, and craftsmanship; qualities that really resonated with me and what I wanted my business to stand for. To me, esthetics isn’t just beauty. It’s intention, artistry, and making something meaningful with your own hands.
I’ve always been drawn to formulation, so after years of researching, learning, and experimenting, I started working on my own skincare line. It’s still in the works, but it’s something I’m very proud of because it brings together everything I love: science, creativity, and helping people feel confident in their skin.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The journey definitely hasn’t been easy, but every challenge has shaped me into the business owner I am today. When I started Minerva, I didn’t have a team, a mentor, or anyone showing me the way. I had to learn how to do everything on my own. From building my business from the ground up, creating schedules, handling licensing and permits, designing my website and online store, figuring out branding, marketing, client management, and all the behind-the-scenes details… I had to teach myself every step.
Instead of letting it overwhelm me, I chose to see it as an opportunity to grow. Each new skill I learned made me more confident and capable. Building something made me appreciate the process so much more. I’m proud that I didn’t wait for the perfect moment or for someone else to guide me. I took the leap, learned as I went, and kept showing up.
Starting with no clientele was another challenge. In this industry, trust takes time to build, and growing a solid foundation required patience, consistency, and a lot of heart. But every milestone no matter how small, every referral, every returning client reminded me why I started and made the journey worth it.
Overall, every challenge pushed me to become more resourceful, resilient, and intentional. I’m grateful for those lessons because they helped me build Minerva Skin Essentials into the boutique skincare studio I always envisioned.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about minerva skin essentials?
Minerva Skin Essentials is a boutique skincare studio with a warm lobby, a little retail area, and a cozy, private treatment room. I specialize in personalized skincare treatments that blend science, creativity, and real care. My goal is always results but in a gentle, supportive way.
What sets me apart is how customized everything is. No two treatments are ever the same. I adjust everything based on what your skin needs in that moment. I also love educating my clients, explaining what I’m doing and why, so they leave feeling empowered and informed.
I’m also really intentional about creating a calm and comfortable environment. I don’t rush. If a client needs a few extra minutes of targeted work, I give it to them. I want people to feel cared for, heard, and understood, not just treated.
I’m especially proud of my upcoming skincare line. It’s something I’ve poured a lot of heart into. Every product is made with purpose, intention, and the same care I put into my treatments. Launching February 2026. It’s something I’ve been dreaming about and building for years. Every formula is my own creation. Clean, intentional, and aligned with everything I believe in when it comes to skin health. It feels incredibly rewarding to bring something to life that reflects my values, my creativity, and my hands-on understanding of what skin truly needs.
At Minerva Skin Essentials, we offer facials, chemical peels, nano needling, lash services, sugar waxing, and corrective skin treatments. My mission is to support people through their whole skin journey whether they’re dealing with chronic issues, confidence struggles, or just want a nurturing space to take care of themselves.
Overall, Minerva Skin Essentials is rooted in artistry, knowledge, and heart. When someone visits, they’re not just getting a service; they’re receiving care that’s thoughtful, personalized, and truly meant for them.
How do you think about happiness?
I’m happiest when I’m creating, learning, and taking care of the people and things I love. That includes my clients, getting to be part of their lives and watching them move through different milestones like going off to college, getting married, moving, starting new jobs, or beginning families. Being able to grow with them over the years has been such a privilege, and many of those relationships have turned into genuine friendships. It reminds me that what I do goes far beyond skin, it’s connection.
I also find so much joy in simple moments of comfort and love, whether I’m with my pets at home or spending time with my boyfriend. And I feel most inspired when I’m traveling, exploring new places, being at the beach, or soaking up warm summer days. Those experiences help recharge me and keep my creativity and passion alive. Overall, the mix of connection, creativity, and the little moments in life are what truly make me happiest.
Pricing:
- Facials starting price $100
- Top facial $170
- Add- ons range $20-75
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.minervaskinessentials.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/minervaskinessentials
Image Credits
Ivan Luna
