Meet Cindy Chavez | Cindy Chavez | Founder & Esthetician of The Skin Edit by Cindy

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

Hi Cindy, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
I was born in Los Angeles and raised in El Monte, California. I’m a proud first-generation Mexican-American. My parents both immigrated from Mexico at a young age and met as teenagers at Belmont High School in Los Angeles. My dad was a natural go-getter, a runner with big dreams. Despite limited English, he earned his real estate broker’s license and went on to build his own real estate company. Watching him succeed through sheer determination left a lasting impact on me and my siblings.

From an early age, I knew I wanted more for myself. My dad’s discipline and drive inspired me and my siblings. I started running when I was just five years old and stayed an athlete throughout my life. The values instilled in us were clear: work hard, don’t make excuses, and honor the sacrifices of those who came before you.

My upbringing didn’t just shape my work ethic, it also deepened my connection to my roots and culture. That foundation inspired me to co-create a podcast called First-Gen Latinas Unscripted, where I share stories and conversations that celebrate the beauty and complexity of being a first-generation Latina. It’s a tribute to where I come from and the people who paved the way.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
My business is incredibly personal to me. After working in the aesthetics industry for over 20 years, I finally found the courage to open my own spa boutique — The Skin Edit by Cindy. This wasn’t an easy leap. Like many entrepreneurs, I’ve faced challenges, especially financial ones, but I’ve learned to trust myself, stay focused, and keep pushing forward.

What sets me apart is the passion and intention behind everything I do. I don’t just provide skincare treatments, I create an experience where each client feels seen, valued and cared for. My tagline is “every touch is intentional, every treatment is personal,” and I live by that. I know how I want to be treated when I spend my time and money somewhere, and I extend that same level of care, respect and attention to my clients.

I’m also proud to say that I’m running this business while continuing my career in the insurance claims industry, where I’ve worked for over two decades as a client liaison manager. Balancing both roles isn’t easy, but I love what I do in both spaces. Each path fulfills a different part of me, one grounded in service and leadership, the other in healing and human connection.

If there’s anything I want the world to know, it’s this: it’s never too late to bet on yourself. I’m living proof that you can build something meaningful with grit, heart, and purpose.

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.
If my best friend was visiting from out of town, I’d make sure they had the perfect mix of relaxation, culture, food, and fun. First things first, I’d welcome them with a facial at my spa boutique. It’s the best way to unwind, reset and get them glowing before we explore SoCal!

We’d start the week with a hike at Griffith Park, probably head up to the Hollywood Sign for those classic views. I love being active, so we’d probably squeeze in a gym session or two to stay energized between all the indulgence.

One evening, I’d take them to see my nephew perform. He’s a talented Mariachi vocalist and violinist, and watching him is an experience in itself. We’d pair that with dinner at one of L.A.’s best Mexican restaurants, complete with live mariachi and a margarita.

Midweek, we’d hit the road for a mini getaway. Temecula’s wine country for some wine tasting and then down to Old Town San Diego for history, shopping and more amazing food. Both are just a couple of hours away and totally doable within the week!

Back in L.A., we’d check out the flea markets in Pasadena (I’m a sucker for vintage finds), catch a concert under the stars at the Hollywood Bowl and just soak in the creative, diverse, high-energy vibe of the city.
It would be a week of memories, laughter, and meaningful moments…

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Without a doubt, I dedicate my shoutout to my parents. My mother, who passed away suddenly at 59, was my best friend and the heart of our family. She taught me to love deeply, to show up fully, and to always believe in myself even when the world made it hard. Her strength, warmth, and unwavering support shaped who I am at my core.

My father instilled in me the power of drive and discipline. Life hasn’t always been easy, and I’ve had my share of setbacks, but my dad’s example taught me to never give up on myself. Even now, as he navigates life with dementia, he remains a symbol of perseverance and quiet strength.

Together, they showed me what it means to push through challenges and stay true to your dreams. Everything I’ve built, everything I am, it’s because of them.

Website: https://www.theskineditbycindy.com

Instagram: @theskineditbycindy

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cindy-chávez-26869b253

Other: https://linktr.ee/theskineditbycindy