MEET SONIA RIOS

I was born and raised in Bryan, Texas, as one of seven siblings in a close-knit family. Growing up, I learned the value of showing up for one another, which gave me a heart for helping others. In middle school, I dreamed of becoming a counselor or social worker so I could support boys and girls facing their own struggles. Though my career path shifted, the desire to encourage, uplift, and walk alongside others never left me.

​

That heart led me to esthetics. After my very first facial—an experience that transformed not just my skin but also my confidence—I knew I wanted to dedicate my career to helping people feel the same way. Esthetics has given me the opportunity to build real relationships with my clients and students, learn their stories, and create a space where I can help restore confidence, minister encouragement, and bring out their natural beauty.

​

I trained at the Ann Webb Skin Institute in Austin, Tx, where I earned licenses as an esthetician, laser technician, and instructor. My career began at the Ann Webb Skin Clinic, where I fell in love with advanced aesthetics through treatments such as dermaplaning, microneedling, and laser hair removal. I later transitioned into teaching esthetics and laser classes at AWSI, which further strengthened my expertise and leadership. Beyond the treatment room, I led teams of 20+ staff and instructors, coordinated large-scale events, and proudly hosted graduation ceremonies for more than 150 students, families, and guests every 10 weeks—experiences that shaped my ability to create spaces that uplift, empower, and celebrate others.

​

From there, I advanced my career as a medical aesthetician for a renowned plastic surgeon, refining my skills in laser resurfacing, RF microneedling, IPL, HydraFacials, and assisting with minimally invasive cosmetic procedures. These experiences gave me a strong foundation in advanced aesthetics, skin health, and client care.

​

Now, as the founder of Pure Collective, I bring that knowledge and precision into every service I provide—whether skin, brows, lashes, or body treatments. Having personally struggled with acne during my teens, I understand how deeply skin health impacts self-confidence. My mission at Pure Collective is to provide intentional care that enhances natural beauty and helps every client leave feeling radiant, renewed, and confident.