Meet Our Providers
AT SANTA FE SKIN INSTITUTE
Nizhoni Denipah, M.D.
Otolaryngologist
Head and Neck Surgeon
Dr. Nizhoni Denipah brings a wealth of expertise and a compassionate touch to every client she treats. A graduate of the University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Dr. Denipah completed her Otolaryngology residency at the University of New Mexico Hospital.
Nataliya Afanasyeva
Medical Director
ACNP-BC
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Nataliya Afanasyeva ACNP-BC received her Master of Science in Nursing degree from the University of South Alabama. She is a member of the American Association of Critical Care Nursing, the Infusion Nurses Society and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners.
Our Team
Dedication. Expertise. Passion.
Elena Romero
Aesthetician
Acne Specialist
Medical Assistant
Elena’s love for skincare started when she set out to solve her own skin struggles—and discovered just how life-changing great skin can be! Now, she channels that passion into helping others feel confident, radiant, and ready to glow.
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Known for her results-driven approach and gentle touch, Elena specializes in acne care and skin rejuvenation. She’s all about creating customized treatments that not only transform your skin but also make every visit relaxing and enjoyable.
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Her go-to skincare secret? Microneedling combined with a consistent home routine—because real results come from teamwork!
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When she’s not helping clients achieve their best skin ever, you’ll likely find her enjoying a delicious meal at her favorite local spot, The Bull Ring.
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Elena is proudly certified in Scarlet RF, SkinPen, Magma, BBL Heroic, Dermaplaning, Chemical Peels, and is a Face Reality Acne Expert. Her favorite treatments to perform? SkinPen and Face Reality acne protocols—because she loves watching confidence come back to life, one glowing face at a time.
Shunay Cdevaca
Aesthetician
Medical Assistant
Shunay is a licensed aesthetician with nearly 20 years of experience in medical aesthetics, serving the local community with dedication and expertise. She specializes in laser and light-based treatments, prioritizing safety, efficacy, and outstanding results. Passionate about continuous growth, Shunay actively engages in ongoing education, seminars, and training to refine her skills and stay at the forefront of the industry. Known for her exceptional interpersonal skills, she builds strong, supportive relationships with her clients, ensuring they feel valued and cared for. Shunay is thrilled to be part of the Santa Fe Skin Institute team and looks forward to helping clients achieve their skincare goals.
Antonio Gonzales
Licensed Esthetician
​Hi, I’m Antonio Gonzales — a licensed esthetician with a serious love for skincare, vintage fashion, and all things beautifully timeless. Whether I’m curating the perfect glow for a client or hunting for antique treasures, I believe in the power of detail and self-expression.
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I am Certified in Custom facials, Aquafirme facials, and Dermaplane Facials. My favorite treatment is a custom facial with Elena — because nothing compares to the results of personalized care and expert collaboration.
Skincare secret: Consistent exfoliation and daily sun protection — the true foundation for radiant, healthy skin. I’m obsessed with ZO Exfoliating Polish for that fresh, polished glow.
When I’m not immersed in serums or styling throwback looks, you’ll find me sipping a fabulous cocktail, sharing great food with my besties, or spending time with my two adorable Shih Tzus, Taz and Gucci
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Welcome to my world — where beauty meets nostalgia, and every day is a vibe.
Iris Sosa
Front Desk Coordinator & Medical Assistant
Born and raised in beautiful Santa Fe, New Mexico, Iris Sosa brings both heart and skill to the Santa Fe Skin Institute team. A licensed esthetician and bilingual professional, Iris is dedicated to creating a welcoming, comfortable experience for every client from the moment they walk through the door.
Her passion for skincare and aesthetics shines through in everything she does—from assisting in treatments to helping clients feel at ease during their visits. Iris’s favorite services include under eye PRF and lip filler, which she loves for their transformative, confidence-boosting results. Her must-have product? The ZO Exfoliating Polish—a glow-boosting essential she swears by.
When she’s not at the spa, Iris enjoys spending time with her two pups, Chiky and Moni, and expressing her creativity through cooking and baking. She’s also the proud owner of Iris Beauty, her lash and brow business. You can often find her at one of her favorite local spots, Mariscos Costa Azul, enjoying some of Santa Fe’s best seafood and community vibes
