Andréa (Dre) VanBeek is a certified Laser Specialist with over 4 years of experience in the Aesthetics Industry. Dre is an accomplished aesthetic nurse full of knowledge, skill, and a passion for helping clients feel their best. In this interview, Dre gives us a look into her life and career.
To hear more from Dre about all things Laser in the Medical Spa Industry, join her upcoming “Laser Focused” virtual lunch-in hosted by MISpa on November 15th.
Hi Dre! Before We Get Started, Could You Give Us A Glimpse Of Who You Are Professionally And At Home?
I am thrilled to be part of the UY Team! At home, my main focus is my family. I am a mom of 4 beautiful children, all college/high school athletes. I volunteer as the State of MI FSHD (muscular dystrophy) Walk & Roll Leader, and I’m a national judge for the United States Tournament of Dance. When I am not involved in those activities I love yoga, long walks, and conversation & wine with friends.
At Urban You I will be sharing my training and knowledge in Injectables, and I am a Laser Specialist representing Urban You as their Laser Safety Officer.
What Has Your Health And Aesthetics Journey Been Like So Far In Your Career?
In my former life (as I like to call it), I was a professional dancer living in Chicago and NYC, touring China and more. I always loved the medical field, so when I decided to settle down I looked into different medical programs. First I received my paramedic license, and while working as a paramedic full-time I went to nursing school.
My first job as an RN was in ER, then ICU, homecare, and eventually I became a wound-certified nurse. While working as a wound care nurse/preceptor I was offered a job in aesthetics…. I have never looked back! It has been almost 4 years in aesthetics, ranging from helping clients with skincare routines, Botox, dermal fillers, microneedling, and my beloved laser therapy!
Have You Always Had An Interest In Skincare And Aesthetics? What Is The Most Important Part Of Your Skincare Routine?
Yes! Growing up, my life was the stage, so we always had to be on our “A game”! I believe the most important part of a daily skincare routine that’s often overlooked is a toner. Toners not only refresh the skin, but they get rid of makeup particles and toxins that have settled on our skin throughout the day/night. Toners also help to create the natural biome or environment of the skin and reset the pH level, so correcting the skin at the next step is easier.
My favorite product right now is SkinBetter’s Interfuse LINES! This is a hyaluronic acid topical line filler that I truly believe will help prolong your Botox and keep your skin looking tighter, younger, and fresher!
How Long Have You Been Working In The Aesthetics Field?
I am excited to be brand new to Urban You, but NOT to the aesthetics industry! I have been doing aesthetic procedures for going on 4 years now, and I have even co-owned my own medical spa on the lakeshore. After years of building a beautiful practice however, I realized as an owner I did not have much personal time for my children and their activities. I was also craving more advanced training and education. THAT is what led me to Urban You. What, to you personally, is the most rewarding part of working in aesthetics? How does it differ from the most rewarding aspect of being an emergency room nurse?
The most rewarding part of aesthetics is transforming lives. It’s the moment you look back at before photos and see eyes pointed downward – no smile, and sagging or aging skin… to the moment you look at after photos and see your client is looking up, smiling, and feels amazing! Their self-confidence is radiant and infectious!
I have always loved being an ER nurse; the main difference in aesthetics is taking time with your clients and building long-lasting relationships with them. Many of my clients have been with me for years; they have gotten to know my family and I theirs. We have built trust, honesty, and respect both personally and professionally.
What Is Your Favorite Aesthetic Service To Perform For A Client?
I don’t just have one, so I’ll share two of my favorites!! First, cheek filler- it instantly makes the client feel younger in so many ways and they see the difference immediately! Secondly, BBL Forever Young Treatment- 3 sessions combined with Botox and it’s like a non-surgical face lift! Absolutely gorgeous and NONE of my clients have been dissatisfied!
What Goals Do You Hope To Achieve at the #1 Medical Spa in Michigan?
I am so excited to excel in my education and training at Urban You! The culture of sharing, collaborating, and connecting with other aesthetic nurses while at work is rejuvenating, plus it provides safer and more advanced outcomes for clients. I am a lifelong learner, so I would love to continue to dive deeper into the realm of aesthetics and eventually teach or train others in what I know.
What Is The Most Important Part Of Your Life Outside Of Work? How Do You Like To Decompress After A Long Day Of Helping Guests Achieve Their Aesthetic Goals?
My faith, my family, and my friends. The biggest smiles come from packed dinners with family, friends, and the conversations that develop with them. After a long day at work I love to relax with a glass of wine at the beach.
What’s Something About Yourself That Others Wouldn’t Expect?
I grew up as the daughter of a Captain and a school teacher, so I lived on a boat 3 months of the year (from June until mid-September) for nearly 16 years. Sometimes, not having contact with people for weeks at a time. It was beautiful, simple, and adventurous. I did not appreciate it then like I do now!
How Can Guests Reach You, Keep Up With Your Work, And Book An Appointment With You?
Follow me on IG or FB at @aestheticsbydre, I would love to get to know YOU! To book an appointment, call Urban You’s Wealthy location in Grand Rapids at 616-326-3631 or schedule online.
To learn more about Laser Treatments from Dre, join her upcoming “Laser Focused” virtual lunch-in hosted by MISpa on November 15th.