WELCOME TO YOUR
AUTHENTIC BEAUTY
The Story of Authentic Beauty
With a career spanning 25 years, I’ve had the privilege of working in some of the finest spas and medspas, as well as for renowned companies like Benefit Cosmetics. Throughout these years, I’ve immersed myself in the world of beauty, skincare, and wellness, continually honing my craft and deepening my understanding of what truly nourishes and revitalizes the skin.
Authentic Beauty was born from this journey—a culmination of decades of experience and a deep-rooted belief in the power of nature. Over time, I realized that the most effective skincare doesn’t come from chemicals or quick fixes but from nature itself. I’ve seen firsthand how natural ingredients can heal, restore, and bring out the skin’s inherent radiance, leading me to trust in these pure, time-honored remedies.
At Authentic Beauty, my mission is simple: to harness the restorative power of nature to help you achieve your healthiest, most radiant skin. This isn’t just skincare; it’s a commitment to authenticity, integrity, and the timeless beauty that comes from within.
AUTHENTIC BEAUTY OWNER
Maria Barneson-Cates is a beacon of beauty and expertise in the serene town of Nevada City, California. With over two decades of experience as an esthetician, Maria has honed her craft to care and proficiency, earning a reputation for her unique skills and unwavering dedication to her clients' well-being. Her passion for authenticity and natural beauty led her to establish her own business, aptly named Authentic Beauty, where she channels her expertise to help clients unlock their inner radiance.
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Maria is a highly skilled, knowledgeable, talented and professional aesthetician. She utilizes the most trusted and advanced techniques and tools, as well as organic, luxury products to optimize your natural beauty. And she is a radiant and caring person who infuses every session with a gentle and calm energy. My natural beauty goals are achieved!! And as long as I am blessed to be on this Earth, I will be a regular client.
I’ve been seeing Maria for brow and lash tints almost monthly for something like 10 years. It’s such a simple way to care for myself and amplify my natural beauty. I feel like her treatments make me look more like myself. Our sessions are always restorative soulfully and physically. We drop right into real talk and have forged a really sweet friendship in 20 min talks over these years. Recommend her at the highest, even started bringing my mom along when she’s in town.
Kara from Nevada City, CA
Kelly from San Francisco, CA
MY MISSION
At Authentic Beauty, my mission is to honor the restorative power of nature, helping you reveal the healthiest, most radiant version of yourself. I am not just about beauty treatments; I am committed to embracing authenticity, integrity, and the timeless beauty that comes from within.
I believe that beauty is a form of self-care and self-expression—it’s about awakening your natural radiance, not masking it, and embodying the most authentic version of yourself.
In a world that often pushes for conformity, I celebrate your individuality as your greatest asset. Through personalized skincare routines, energy-clearing practices, or a harmonious blend of both, my goal is to empower you to express your true self.
FEMALE OWNED LOCAL BUSINESS
Our studio is located in the heart of Nevada City, where we offer a wide variety of services.