Meet Ray Natal

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ray Natal.

Hi Ray, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
It all started when I got my first makeup kit for Christmas when I was just six years old; I fell in love. Once I grew older, I learned that with a great makeup application, skin care comes first. I became truly interested in a skincare routine when I was a freshman in high school.

I started my career by attending a Master Makeup Artistry Program: Makeup 101 with the one and only Glamour by Hosway, receiving my certification in the summer of 2017. It wasn’t until I was eating dinner while watching Dr. Pimple Popper extraction videos on Youtube that I realized – I could get paid for this. If I can stomach a meal while watching extractions, I could definitely get paid for this. Immediately, I looked into schools to go to for their Esthetics program, attending Avalon School of Cosmetology to become a Licensed Esthetician just months later.

I graduated from Avalon School of Cosmetology with the highest sales and product sales in my class at the end of February 2020; thankfully right before the first lockdown for COVID-19. Then the pandemic came to the surface, unable to take State Boards to receive my license. In the midst of it all, two Esti-Besties and I came together and created a brand as one, called Mia Bella Esthetics. We prepared all of July- buying products, equipment and everything else needed for our small business. We opened our doors in August 2020, shortly after officially receiving my license.

I went back to school and received my certification in Permanent Makeup at the Mile High Modern Beauty Academy, in April 2021. I have now been practicing for just over a year, and I’m preparing to offer Cosmetic PMU services later this year. I was a part of Mia Bella Esthetics for a year until I dissolved my partnership to move to Florida for a few months to be with family. Moving back to Colorado, I began working as an Esthetician at Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa.

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 beginning of opening up a business was challenging to say the least. Building clientele, investing in an account with a professional skincare brand, Dermalogica, marketing, advertising, it can all be overwhelming. Jumping straight to having our own business after school during a pandemic, as well as through a personal diagnosis, was very risky. Looking back, I am so grateful for all the learning moments and experiences I have been through in just my first year in Esthetics and wouldn’t change a thing. It is a very cherishing feeling and makes me eager for growth!

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a Licensed Esthetician, Makeup and Permanent Makeup Artist. I perform abrasive and/or non-abrasive skin treatments such as targeting product therapies, LED Photolight Therapy, Dermalinfusion, Microdermabrasion, Chemical Peels, Body Treatments, Aromatherapy, Lymphatic Drainage Massage, full body waxing, Eyelash perm, Eyebrow Lamination, and Tinting services. I specialize in Skincare and Permanent Makeup – Powder Ombre Eyebrows, Eyeliner Enhancement and Lip Blushing. What sets me apart from others is my overwhelming love and passion that I have for the industry.

Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
My goals are to become a Master Permanent Makeup Artist in both Cosmetic and Paramedical tattooing, taking multiple certifications. Paramedical tattooing focuses on the restoration of the skin post-medical treatment. This includes Scar Camouflage and Areola Reconstruction.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @pmu.skinboutique

Image Credits
The picture of me applying makeup (without red hair) instagram handle is @onceinalifetime2015