Renowned as a communicator, producer, and expert in fashion and skincare, Doreen Gutiérrez D'Cardona stands out as one of the most dynamic entrepreneurs in the beauty and aesthetic medicine industry in Miami.
In just over ten years, together with her husband, Dr. Eduardo Cardona, she established a conglomerate of companies specializing in cosmetics, aesthetic medicine, medical training, and communication, becoming a benchmark for beauty professionals in South Florida.
From Humble Beginnings to Business Mogul
Doreen's professional journey began far from the business world, in the neighborhood of La Ceiba in Havana, characterized by power outages, scarcity, and economic uncertainty. These challenging experiences only strengthened her resolve, shaping her philosophy as a woman, professional, and mother.
Initially drawn to the arts, Doreen pursued a career as a professional dancer during her teenage years, where she honed her stage presence. This environment also sparked her interest in makeup and personal image.
During this time, a significant highlight was her role in the film "La ciudad perdida" (2005), starring Andy García, where she played a dancer in a scene inspired by the Tropicana cabaret.
A New Path in the Dominican Republic
At the age of 17, Doreen emigrated to the Dominican Republic, where she worked as a model in advertising campaigns and graced magazine covers. Her career took an unexpected turn when she suffered a severe allergic reaction to a well-known makeup brand, prompting her to pause and reevaluate her future goals.
This pivotal moment led her to study Journalism and Marketing, while still maintaining ties with the beauty industry. She obtained certification as an image consultant and embarked on a new professional path.
In the Dominican Republic, Doreen and her husband launched their first business ventures, founding the Laser Luxe club and the television program "Diario de Belleza" on Telesistema, which offered content on health, aesthetics, and wellness.
Establishing a Beauty Empire
The allergic reaction inspired the creation of Bana Cosmetics, a brand based on paraben-free formulas and other non-irritating ingredients, anticipating the trend of clean beauty long before it became mainstream.
For over fifteen years, the Cuban entrepreneur managed a medical spa, gaining firsthand insight into the needs of patients seeking aesthetic treatments and skincare solutions.
Expansion to Miami
In 2017, after solidifying her media presence and business success in the Dominican Republic, Doreen and Dr. Cardona expanded their operations to Miami, laying the groundwork for their enterprise group that encompasses their main projects.
Today, Boribana Medical Training (BMT) is a specialized institute in aesthetic medicine training, catering to doctors, dentists, nurse practitioners, and other healthcare professionals. Doreen and her husband recently celebrated the graduation of over 2,500 professionals trained under the Cardona Method Aesthetic Medicine Program.
Meanwhile, Bana Cosmetics continues to thrive. In 2025, they marked a decade in business with a brand identity refresh and the launch of Bana Skincare, a medical-grade skincare line designed to meet the needs of mature skin.
Family and Personal Growth
Beyond her business pursuits, Doreen Gutiérrez places immense value on her family. As a mother of two, she often shares insights on entrepreneurship, education, and personal growth on social media, topics she also addresses in her conferences and content for her community.
The Cuban businesswoman often emphasizes that the ability to reinvent oneself is key to success, highlighting discipline, perseverance, and education as essential tools for achieving personal and professional goals.
Her journey from a challenging childhood in Cuba to developing her ventures in the Dominican Republic and Miami showcases her relentless quest for opportunities and adaptability to change. In a recent video, she encapsulated this philosophy: "Most people don't achieve great results because they give up when the excitement fades. Success is built through repetition, even when no one is watching or applauding."
Insights on Doreen Gutiérrez's Success and Ventures
What inspired Doreen Gutiérrez to create Bana Cosmetics?
A severe allergic reaction to a popular makeup brand inspired Doreen to create Bana Cosmetics, focusing on clean beauty products free from parabens and other irritants.
How many professionals have been trained through Boribana Medical Training?
Over 2,500 professionals have been trained through Boribana Medical Training under the Cardona Method Aesthetic Medicine Program.
What does Doreen emphasize as keys to success?
Doreen emphasizes the importance of discipline, perseverance, and continuous learning as vital tools for achieving success.