SkinSpirit 

Above L to R: Vanessa Flores, Dali Gandara, Amy Kunkle, Natalie Makhoul, Montana Dillenberg, Heather Yoo

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In 2003, Lynn Heublein, an accomplished tech entrepreneur, and M. Dean Vistnes, MD, a board-certified plastic surgeon, partnered to create SkinSpirit—a Silicon Valley medical clinic offering comprehensive aesthetic services. More than 20 years later, SkinSpirit features locations all over the United States offering services such as Botox^®, dermal fillers, facials, energy-based treatments and body sculpting. 

The Manhattan Beach team includes estheticians Vanessa Flores and Dali Gandara, clinic manager Amy Kunkle, assistant manager Natalie Makhoul, nurse Montana Dillenberg and physician assistant Heather Yoo.

Tell us about your business.

SkinSpirit is a medspa here to ensure you find joy in your skin-care journey and happiness in the results you’re looking for. We deliver safe, effective, medically proven treatments that you can feel good about. From our expert staff of medical professionals to the services we offer, all of our treatment plans use the latest technologies. Our providers take the time to listen to your individual needs and truly individualize every patient’s plan.

Why are you considered a go-to person in the South Bay community?

Heather: I am knowledgeable, consistently deliver aesthetically pleasing results in a natural way, and I am light-handed. I am passionate about the field of aesthetics and love helping clients through their aesthetic journey by helping them look and feel their best.

Montana: Having been in the industry for over 10 years, I’m able to deliver beautiful, natural-looking results. I love educating my patients while they are in my chair. I think it’s imperative that they understand what we are doing and why. I prioritize creating a well-rounded antiaging plan—not just a one-off treatment. Looking at the big picture is the key to long-term success.

Vanessa: My clients have helped me build my business through word of mouth as well as their feedback. I simplify the process through effective communication and genuine care for their skin- care routines. I am intentional and authentic, so clients are confident in me being their go-to beauty guru.. I love what I do and believe it truly makes a difference.

Dali: Skincare doesn’t have to be overwhelming, but it does need to be personalized. I create digestible treatment plans and only recommend what my patients need. With over a decade in the skincare industry, my clients trust my expertise not only because of their dedication to their skincare journey, but because they see real results. Seeing them happy and confident after a treatment is what matters most.

Natalie: I grew up in the South Bay and have worked in Manhattan Beach my entire career. I believe in the strength of my network, and my knowledge of the culture of the community brings a different level of confidence. Oftentimes it can be intimidating walking into a medical spa. Creating a positive and friendly atmosphere for our patients is what we take great pride in.

What inspired you to pursue a career in your field?

Dali: I was initially drawn to the world of aesthetics because I was fascinated with the transformative power it holds. Witnessing how a simple treatment can boost someone’s confidence and help them feel better about themselves resonated deeply with me. My career allows me to combine my passion for skincare with my desire to connect with and uplift others.

Natalie: I was inspired by my grandmother, who owned a hair salon and beauty supply shop where I spent a lot of time learning how to use professional products from experts in the field. I was exposed to the standard operations of running a beauty business at a very early age. This ultimately inspired me to start my career in medical aesthetics.

Amy: When I was younger, I had cystic acne on my face that I was very insecure about. When a close friend’s mother recommended that I see her esthetician, my whole skin outlook changed! Having someone treat and educate me about my skin really made a difference. I wanted to continue to learn and help others with any skin concerns, so I pursued a career in the medical aesthetics industry.

What does success mean to you?

Heather: Success is when my practice is consistently flourishing because I am providing dedicated service and delivering excellent results by helping clients reach their aesthetic goals. 

Montana: Success isn’t just the first smile I get from a patient; it’s also the smile I see years down the road because we’ve built a trusting relationship. The combination of a patient-focused approach, an artistic eye and best practices provides the foundation for the successful outcomes everyone aims for.

Vanessa: Success means finding something you love that doesn’t feel like work. Helping my clients with their journey through successful skincare regimens and seeing/hearing their happiness is my success!

Amy: Success is not measured by just one thing. Our team is dedicated to supporting our clients and guiding them through their skincare treatments. Celebrating their happiness in meeting each milestone is our success!

Photographed by Shane O’Donnell