We recently had the chance to connect with Adriana Yanez and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Adriana , thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day to share your story, experiences and insights with our readers. Let’s jump right in with an interesting one: Who are you learning from right now?
I believe there is something to learn from everyone you meet. My daughter, for example, teaches me patience and reminds me to slow down and appreciate the little moments in life. Most recently, I’ve been learning from Kim and Leeanne at Rind Head Spa. They’ve not only helped me elevate my skills as an esthetician, but also shown me what it means to lead with grace, intention, kindness, and compassion.
I’m also attending classes at San Diego City College, where I’ve learned the value of creating, contributing, and giving back to our community. At the same time, I’ve been diving into politics—how it shapes our neighborhoods, the programs available to us, and the power of our voices in those decisions. Through this, I’ve come to realize how important it is to stay open-minded while also standing firm in my own beliefs.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Adriana, and I’m passionate about helping people feel like the most confident, beautiful version of themselves. I run a studio in Hillcrest where I specialize in eyelash extensions and facials, and I also work at Rind Head Spa performing scalp treatments. I love diving deep into massage techniques, the anatomy of the head and face, and how we can use these practices to support scalp health and reset the nervous system.
My love for skincare and beauty started with my grandmother, Ilona. As a child, I would play with her lotions and potions and experiment with making our own. Later, when she was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer, she chose holistic treatment over chemotherapy—which gave her an additional 10 years of life. Witnessing the healing power of plants inspired me to pursue herbalism and integrate holistic practices into my work.
Looking ahead, I’m working on obtaining a Cannabis Microbusiness and manufacturing license to create a product line that combines cannabis with other botanical ingredients. I’m also rebranding Lash House and preparing to open a new location. It’s an exciting time, and I can’t wait to share what’s next!
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What part of you has served its purpose and must now be released?
The part of me that I’ve had to release is the habit of constantly pleasing others and putting everyone else first. For a long time, I thought that was what it meant to be kind and giving, but I realized it often left me depleted. I’ve learned that true generosity and care come from a place of fullness, not exhaustion.
Now, I focus on filling my own cup first—through rest, creativity, learning, and taking care of my own well-being. When I’m grounded and whole, I actually have more to give to others in an authentic way. Letting go of people-pleasing has allowed me to set healthier boundaries, trust my own voice, and show up for others with more intention and compassion.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Yes, a couple of years ago I almost gave up. My grandmother—who helped raise me and was the sweetest, kindest soul—was put on hospice. At the time, my husband and I were both working full-time while caring for her, and my daughter was helping as well. We were running on fumes with little to no sleep, but I would do it all over again for her.
After she passed, I fell into a deep depression. The weekend after, we brought home our puppy Mika, who helped heal our hearts by giving us someone new to nurture and pour our love into. Around that same time, my business slowed down, I started struggling with sinus issues from lash glue, and I had to pick up another part-time job at a Head Spa. That’s when a friend introduced me to Rind Head Spa. Getting hired there was a turning point—it gave me not only work I loved, but also a community of like-minded people.
There’s something powerful and almost magical about helping others heal while you’re healing yourself. That experience reminded me why I do what I do, and it carried me through one of the hardest chapters of my life.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
The biggest lie in the industry? That washing your scalp often is “bad.” Honestly, if you treated the skin on your face the way you’re told to treat your scalp, you’d freak out. Imagine not washing your face for a week and just piling on more product to hide the buildup—it’s the same thing! Your scalp is skin, and healthy hair starts there. So no, stretching your wash days isn’t doing you any favors—it’s just a recipe for clogged follicles and an unhappy scalp.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What are you doing today that won’t pay off for 7–10 years?
Right now, I’m laying the groundwork for manufacturing my own products. It’s a long game—something that won’t bring immediate returns—but I know it has the potential to transform my career and brand in the next 7–10 years. Creating products that combine cannabis and other botanicals isn’t just about profit; it’s about building a line rooted in healing, sustainability, and authenticity. It takes time to research, formulate, test, and build trust with clients, but I see it as planting seeds that will grow into something much bigger down the road.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://studio-100094.square.site/
- Instagram: Beauty_by_dri
