I’m Gabriela, a first-generation Mexican American, a proud mother of two, a supportive wife, and a sister to three brothers, all while working in law enforcement. My journey has been shaped by my experience with trichotillomania since I was 22, which has left me without eyelashes. For a long time, wearing eyeliner was my way of feeling beautiful and confident—it completed my look.

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Every morning, I’d wake up and face my reflection, reminded of my condition, which I struggled to manage despite trying everything—medications, therapy, you name it. I often felt anxious if I was running late and couldn’t put on my makeup, convinced that everyone was staring at my bare eyelids. It was a painful reminder that I didn’t quite fit the image I wanted to project.

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Getting my eyeliner tattooed was a true turning point. Now, instead of seeing what I lacked, I see beautiful eyeliner that boosts my self-confidence and happiness. This transformation inspired me to learn permanent makeup and paramedical tattooing. I want to help others who may feel similar, even if our stories differ. I’m passionate about empowering people to feel beautiful and confident in their own skin because we all deserve to shine and embrace our uniqueness.