Inspiring Conversations with Andrea Sandoval of Skin and Glow

Today we’d like to introduce you to Andrea Sandoval.

Hi Andrea, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory. 
I’ve always had an interest for the beauty industry, but I never envisioned my interest to blossom into a genuine calling to pursue a career in esthetics. After graduating high school, I moved away for college. At the time, I didn’t really know what I wanted to do or major in, but education was always encouraged in my household and knew that as a first-generation Latina my resources were limited. My best shot at securing a successful future hinged on my decision to pursue higher education. I graduated with my bachelor’s degree in 2018, and a few months later landed my first corporate job in Public Relations. I envisioned myself climbing the corporate ladder and ultimately landing a position in management. 

In 2019, I encountered a sudden onset of hormonal acne after years of enjoying clear skin. Like most people, I turned to my resources (social media) and tried every over-the-counter acne product I could get my hands on. However, my efforts backfired, worsening my acne and leaving my skin barrier severely compromised. This time, I sought the expertise of a dermatologist. I schedule an appointment, and after a month of waiting, my consultation lasted merely five minutes, resulting in a prescription of antibiotics. After a week of taking this medication, I decided it was best to discontinue its usage. The side effects outweighed the promise of clear skin. Then, one day, I came across an Esthetician’s ad on social media. I decided to schedule an appointment, and this is where my interest for the industry sparked. I fell in love with facials, and my skin significantly improved without the use of medication. My newfound passion had me consuming skincare education for fun. I was constantly listening to skincare podcast and avidly following professional skincare lines. Despite my commitment to my corporate job at the time, my interests for Esthetics continued to flourish. 

Fast forward to 2020. Covid happened, and I’m unfortunately laid off from my corporate job. While at the time it felt like the end of the world, it served as a catalyst for me to pursue my passion for esthetics. It wasn’t an overnight decision, but with the support of my husband, I decided to close a chapter in my life and redefine my career path. It wasn’t a decision made lightly, but rather a courages step towards pursuing a new and fulfilling career. 

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Deciding to switch careers was not an easy decision, but my passion for the industry ultimately made it easier. Learning about skin fuels my passion. When you work in a corporate setting, advancement often relies on the approval of others; you’re constantly hoping someone takes a chance on you. However, working in this industry empowers individuals to forge their own path. There’s also a plethora of resources to advance your knowledge and education. From free education to conventions to specialized courses…the possibilities are endless! 

Now, that’s not to say everything has been “easy.” I was employed at EWC and a local beauty bar in my city before deciding to go solo. Working at these places gave me the confidence to start my own business while also allowing me to invest in continued education. Starting my own business has been a learning curve, encompassing everything from marketing, navigating legalities, managing inventory, and cultivating a loyal clientele base. It’s been short from easy, and while I still have A LOT to learn, I remain committed to learning and growing. 

Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Skin and Glow?
I’m a Licensed Esthetician and Acne Specialist and I specialize in providing comprehensive skincare solutions, including full body waxing and facials. As someone who struggled with acne, I recognized the importance of honing my expertise in acne treatment in order to best serve my clients. This drove me to become a Certified Acne Specialist through Face Reality, known for its 90% success rate, and earning #1 best acne line four years consecutively. I want readers and future clients to know that our session doesn’t end in the treatment room; I’ll be a continued resource you can come to for expertise. I truly commit myself to helping you in your skincare journey and forming friendships along the way. Whether it’s treating acne, pigmentation, anti-aging, or a hair removal service- I’m here to empower you and make you feel confident in your own skin! 

We’d be interested to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you.
Struggling with acne and getting laid off from my corporate job were all unfortunate events that led me to where I am today. “Rejection is Redirection,” and I truly believe the universe had different plans for me. 

I’ve also experienced a handful of blessings, most recently winning Glymed’s 4-day Empowering Aesthetics course. These courses can get very expensive, so this was a win for me! 

I also have an amazing support system! My friends whom I call my marketing team, my family who always mentions my name in a room of opportunity, and my husband who I couldn’t have done this without. 

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skinandglowesthetics?igsh=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
• Other: Skinandglow.glossgenius.com

Image Credits
Saidy Mena Photos