"From working in the beauty industry, I could see that so many people found skincare confusing. When I was trying to treat my own acne, I ended up chopping and changing products all the time trying to find some magic solution. My skin was red and sore, and I became more disillusioned with skincare - it wasn't fun or enjoyable, just something to battle with. Over the last decade, the choice of skincare out there has become even bigger, with a huge range of ingredients, brands and products. Not everyone is a beauty junkie, myself included, so it can be hard to know where to start with knowing what's right for you.

I realised that there was space for a brand that focused on breakouts, but in a straightforward, honest way. I wanted to create a skincare range that felt like it was for everyone, could be easily understood, and yet still felt like it could be enjoyed. Just because you have spots & breakouts, doesn't mean you should only be able to use the medical-type brands in the pharmacy area. Skincare should be a self-care moment just for you".

How does your skin impact your daily life?

"Even now that I'm older, I've been surprised at how I still experience breakouts, especially when I'm stressed! Couple this with the hormonal changes that come with getting older, I can feel like I'm trying to treat a range of different issues all at once.

Being honest, I know I always feel more confident about being on camera (e.g. on social media) if I'm feeling good about my skin. If I'm not, I know it can impact how happy I am to put myself out there, which I always need to as a small business owner".

Do you think the beauty industry always advocates for realistic beauty standards, and uses accurate images of what real skin actually looks like?

"It's definitely got better, and some brands do use real images and models now, far more than when I started working in beauty. However, I think it's still got a long way to go. That's why we try and always use images that are unfiltered, as everyone should feel comfortable to discuss real skin. It does concern me that social media in particular does not always accurately represent what skin actually looks like for the majority people, which can make people feel like they aren't good enough. The more we are honest about skin concerns like acne, the more open everyone can be in sharing and supporting each other on their own skin journeys".

What message would you give to someone who has experienced the same skin issues as you?

"When I was a teenager I wish I had been told about keeping skincare simple. Experimenting with lots of different things definitely didn't work for me. I also wish I had also accepted myself more, as things can pass you buy when you worry to much about what other people think or what you look like.

Nowadays, I would advise anyone to be kind to themselves and others about their skin. There is an amazingly supportive skincare community out there, and it's easier than ever to connect with people if you have any worries or concerns about your skin. 

Finally, just remember that skincare is always a journey! There is no overnight answer to perfection, which doesn't exist anyway. Just enjoy skincare for what it is, a great way to give yourself a little boost everyday."

We hope that you've found this blog helpful - if you have any questions or would like to share your skincare journey with us, we'd love to hear from you. You can get in touch via the form below or by DM on IG.