10 Life & Business Lessons from Beauty Entrepreneur Marisa Vara Arredondo

Marisa Vara Arredondo isn’t your average beauty entrepreneur. Before founding Phace Bioactive, a skincare line centered around science and pH balance, she was working in high-stakes finance on Wall Street. Her journey—from personal battles with acne to launching a brand that helps others achieve healthier skin—is full of insights for anyone thinking about starting their own business or just navigating a career pivot.

Here are 10 lessons from Marisa Arredondo’s incredible journey that any aspiring entrepreneur (or dream chaser) can take to heart:

1. Turn Personal Pain into a Powerful Idea

Marisa didn’t just stumble into skincare—her passion came from real-life struggles with cystic acne as a teen. Instead of just accepting it, she turned her frustration into a mission: to create solutions that actually work. Her story proves that the things that challenge us most often lead us to our greatest purpose.

2. Your Past Experience Matters—Even If It Seems Unrelated

Before stepping into the beauty world, Marisa worked for over a decade as a biotech analyst on Wall Street. That background gave her deep knowledge of ingredients, skin science, and the beauty industry from the inside out. It’s a great reminder that no experience is ever wasted—it can all come together in surprising and impactful ways.

3. Education Builds a Strong Foundation

Marisa studied at Stanford and later went to Harvard Business School, where she developed the business plan for Phace Bioactive. While formal education isn’t the only path to success, her story shows how learning—whether through school or real-life experience—can set you up to build something solid and lasting.

4. Let Science Do the Talking

Phace Bioactive didn’t just rely on buzzwords and trends. Marisa built her brand around real science—specifically the importance of pH balance in skin health. That research-driven approach helped her create products that stood out and built trust. When your brand has real substance, people notice.

5. Be Ready to Wear Many Hats

Entrepreneurship is far from glamorous behind the scenes. Marisa Arredondo did everything from product development to public appearances (including selling on QVC!). She became the face of her brand because she believed in it—and she wasn’t afraid to take on different roles to bring her vision to life.

6. Resilience Will Carry You Through the Tough Days

Leaving a successful finance career to enter a totally new industry wasn’t easy. There were setbacks and steep learning curves, but Marisa didn’t give up. Her grit and persistence helped her push through the early challenges and build a brand that people love today.

7. Use Your Network—It’s There for a Reason

Marisa leaned on the connections she’d built over the years—from skincare chemists to dermatologists—to bring her products to life. Your community can be one of your greatest assets, whether it’s offering advice, expertise, or support.

8. Keep It Real—People Will Connect

What set Marisa apart was her openness about her own skin struggles. She didn’t pretend to be perfect, and that honesty made people trust her. In today’s world, authenticity isn’t just refreshing—it’s essential. When you're genuine, people listen and respond.

9. Never Stop Learning

Even after launching her company, Marisa kept learning—staying up-to-date on skincare research, consumer trends, and business strategies. Entrepreneurship is an ongoing journey. The most successful founders stay curious and open to growth.

10. Let Passion Lead the Way

At the heart of everything Marisa Arredondo does is a real passion for helping others feel good in their skin. That mission is what fueled her long hours, big decisions, and brave career leap. When you care deeply about what you’re doing, it shows—and that energy can carry you far.

Marisa Arredondo’s journey is proof that there’s no “one way” to succeed. She blended personal struggle, professional experience, and passion into a brand that’s not just about beauty—it’s about confidence and healing. Whether you’re dreaming of launching a business, switching careers, or just finding your path, her story is a powerful reminder: your struggles can become your strength, and your purpose might be closer than you think.