Our Team

Beth Dugat

President & Director
Laser & Medical Aesthetics Instructor (Bilingual)

As president and director of La Vida Laser & Aesthetics Institute, Beth Dugat is passionate about helping students build successful careers in medical aesthetics through quality education, hands-on training, and personalized mentorship! As a laser professional and medical aesthetics instructor, she brings real-world industry experience into every classroom, ensuring students gain practical knowledge they can confidently apply in clinical settings. Beth is known for her interactive teaching style, approachable personality, and genuine commitment to student success. She believes that every student learns differently and takes the time to ensure concepts are fully understood before moving forward. Whether teaching laser hair removal, advanced aesthetic procedures, or safety and compliance, her focus is always on creating a supportive learning environment where students feel comfortable asking questions and developing confidence in their skills. Beyond technical training, Beth is dedicated to helping students navigate the realities of the aesthetics industry, sharing insights gained through years of hands-on experience. Her goal is not only to certify students but also to help them become safe, knowledgeable, and successful aesthetic professionals who are prepared for long-term career growth.

Cristina Flores (LE, LSO & LHRP)

Dean Of Admissions
Certified Medical Aesthetics & Laser Instructor (Bilingual)

As an instructor at La Vida Laser & Aesthetics Institute, Cristina Flores is passionate about helping students develop the knowledge, confidence, and practical skills needed to excel in the aesthetics industry! Drawing from years of hands-on experience as a licensed esthetician, laser professional, and certified provider in advanced aesthetic treatments, she brings real-world insight and enthusiasm to every class. Cristina is known for her engaging teaching style, detailed explanations, and ability to make complex concepts easy to understand. Her classes are highly interactive, encouraging students to ask questions, participate in discussions, and gain confidence through hands-on practice. She believes that learning should be both educational and enjoyable, creating an environment where students remain engaged while mastering essential skills and safety protocols. Whether teaching laser procedures, skincare treatments, or advanced aesthetic techniques, Cristina is committed to ensuring every student feels supported, understood, and fully prepared to apply their training in a professional setting.

Nneka U. Edokpayi (MD)

Medical Director

Dr. Edokpayi provides critical medical oversight and guidance for La Vida Laser & Aesthetics Institute. Her expertise ensures that our state-approved curriculum and med spa clinical practices maintain the absolute highest standards of safety, ethics, and modern medical efficacy.

Debra Mezistrano-Boer (LE, MA, LSO & LHRP)

Certified Medical Aesthetics, Injector & Laser Instructor

Debra is a highly experienced medical esthetician and laser specialist with over 20 years in the medical aesthetics industry. Her expertise includes advanced facials, chemical peels, microneedling, PRP, plasma lifts (fibroblast), and a full range of laser and light-based treatments! As Lead Laser Instructor at La Vida Aesthetics Institute, Debi develops curriculum and provides hands-on training in laser applications and advanced skincare procedures. She also serves as a clinical applications trainer for Cutera, educating physicians and medical spas on laser technology and treatment protocols. With a strong medical background spanning intensive care, emergency medicine, and hyperbaric therapy, Debi brings a results-driven, patient-focused approach to both her clients and students. She is passionate about education, ongoing training, and delivering safe, effective outcomes in medical aesthetics. Originally from the Pacific Northwest, Debi relocated to Texas in 1989 with her husband of over 35 years. She is a proud mother of two and enjoys swimming, golf, traveling, and spending time with her three dogs.

Donny Marion (PA)

Certified Medical Aesthetics & Injector Instructor

Donny is a physician assistant who originally began his career in emergency medicine before finding his passion for aesthetic medicine! He has been injecting for the past 6 years and has a wealth of experience with light-based and energy-based devices as well! As his skills, aptitude, and passion for the field have grown, so did his appreciation for the dramatic impact he was able to make in the lives of his patients. He enjoys being able to share his knowledge to help others as they begin their careers in this field. He received his Bachelor of Science in molecular biology from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and went on to complete his Master of Science as a physician assistant at Baylor College of Medicine. He is a native Houstonian, a US Navy veteran, and the father of two.

Sarika Diaz (LE, LSO & LHRP)

Certified Medical Aesthetics & Laser Instructor

Sarika Diaz is a licensed aesthetician and laser specialist with over 17 years of experience in the medical aesthetics industry! Her background spans luxury spas, medical practices, and leading plastic surgery offices, giving her a strong clinical foundation in advanced skincare and laser treatments! She is the founder of True Skin Aesthetics, where she focuses on results-driven, corrective skincare using advanced technology and customized treatment plans. Her expertise includes treating skin of color and supporting long-term skin health. Her practice was recognized as a Houston Chronicle 2025 Best of the Best winner. Sarika is a key opinion leader and luminary for Sciton Lasers and serves on the Aesthetician Advisory Board for ALASTIN Skincare (a Galderma company). As a laser instructor at La Vida Aesthetics Institute, she is dedicated to hands-on training and mentoring future aesthetic professionals. A returning keynote speaker and co-chair for the Science of Skincare Summit’s Esthetician Track, Sarika is known for combining clinical expertise with real-world application. She is passionate about education, integrity, and delivering results-driven skincare. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling and spending time with her husband and two Labrador Retrievers.

Adriana Aranda (LE, LSO & LHRP)

Spanish Certified Medical Aesthetics, Injector & Laser Instructor

With over two decades of experience in aesthetics, Adriana has built a career that seamlessly blends advanced science, holistic wellness, and international training. Her approach integrates modern aesthetic medicine with holistic disciplines such as acupuncture, aromatherapy, and traditional Chinese medicine, creating highly personalized and results-driven treatments! She is an expert in facial harmonization, cosmetic injectables, PDO threads, skin rejuvenation, microneedling, body contouring, and advanced anti-aging protocols. Adriana is a certified medical aesthetician with international training in Mexico, the United States, Brazil, and Europe. She completed an intensive specialization in Traditional Chinese Medicine, along with over seven years of studies in Chinese Herbal Medicine (CHTM), and also holds a degree in Clinical Psychology from the University of Querétaro. She is additionally certified as an essential oils therapist with over 14 years of experience. As the founder of JOLIE Wellness MedSpa in Houston, Texas, Adriana is a certified injector and phlebotomist with advanced training in facial harmonization, including a master’s program and cadaver-based anatomical training in São Paulo, Brazil. Fluent in Spanish, English, and French, Adriana combines her global expertise with a refined, patient-centered approach. to beauty and wellness.

Greg Dugat

Vice President

Greg Dugat serves as vice president (VP) of La Vida Laser & Aesthetics Institute, where he provides business leadership, strategic planning, financial administration, and operational oversight. With a background in safety and health and training in emergency medicine, Greg brings decades of experience in regulatory compliance, risk management, workforce development, and organizational leadership. Throughout his career, he has earned multiple national safety awards, served as a guest speaker at industry conferences, represented professional organizations in Washington, D.C., and received recognition from the American Cancer Society for his contributions to workplace safety and community service. Greg is also a qualified safety consultant, EMT, instructor, and private pilot. In addition to his role at La Vida Laser & Aesthetics Institute, Greg holds a U.S. Coast Guard Master Captain License and co-owns La Vida Luxury Charters in Kemah, Texas, alongside his wife, Beth Dugat. His diverse professional background and commitment to excellence help support the continued growth and success of both organizations.

Jesus Angel Flores

Creative Marketing Director

As a graduate of the University of Houston with a degree in marketing, he leads the practice’s branding, content, and outreach efforts, helping connect clients with exceptional care and results.