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From ‘Bad Skin Genes’ to Glowing Skin: How My Mum and I Turned Our Struggles into a Legacy
“I’m sorry, girl,” she’d say, her eyes filled with guilty sorrow. “I guess you got my bad skin genes.”
By Jasmine Kang
January 17, 2024
The author (left) with her mom, brother, and grandmother. This photo is especially memorable as it was the last one taken during her tween years. After acne began to affect her skin, she stopped taking photos altogether.
Growing up, my mom would always talk about our family’s history of acne as if it were “bad skin genes” out to get us. It was like we were always battling some invisible enemy that kept our skin from being clear. I remember her sighing after another unsuccessful home remedy for my acne. “I’m sorry, girl,” she’d say, her eyes filled with guilty sorrow. “I guess you got my bad skin genes. My acne wasn’t as bad as yours, though. Why is your acne so stubborn?”
With that, like a ritual, we’d embark on our search for a new cure, burning through different home remedies, skincare products of all kinds, from lower-end to premium-range, hunting for something that would bring relief to my red, bumpy, pimply teenage skin.
A snippet of the author’s 14 years of diverse acne challenge.
“I’ll take you to facials,” Mum promised. Despite her best intentions, the facials brought more pain than relief. I remember emerging from the first session with my face throbbing and red, spending the entire journey home staring at the ground, desperate to hide my inflamed skin from the world. One day, after burning through thousands of dollars and yet another disheartening facial that had left both my face and self-esteem inflamed, Mum sat me down. “It seems these treatments are doing more harm than good. I’m really sorry. Let’s see a doctor instead,” she said quietly.
Unfortunately, seeking professional advice turned out to be just as fruitless. We visited a well-known doctor for acne and started a regimen involving oral medications, creams, chemical peels, and laser procedures. These treatments left my skin burnt, hypersensitive, and sadly, still riddled with acne. My teenage years should have been all about taking selfies and sharing laughs, but instead, I avoided cameras and wasted too much time wondering why I had to “win” the bad skin genes lottery. I grew increasingly withdrawn, and the idea of even stepping outside seemed way too much to handle.
But every cloud has a silver lining. All these trials and tribulations led to something incredible. Refusing to reign to my ‘bad skin genes’, armed with my biomedical degree and experience fighting acne, I embarked on a mission. A mission to create skincare products that help people like me achieve smooth glowing skin.
And thus, Skinlycious was born. After 8 years of research and development, I discovered that so many ingredients at the wrong concentration trigger my skin to overproduce sebum, resulting in oily skin and clogged pores. It’s no wonder I struggled with acne for 14 years. After perfecting the blend of science-backed and natural ingredients at the right concentrations, I finally won my acne battle and in doing so, paved the way for countless others to achieve their own skin victories. My once stubborn acne cleared up completely, leaving my skin radiantly smooth and glowing—a reflection in the mirror that I once thought impossible.
The author, showcasing her skincare line – an 8-year Research & Development triumph.
As our reputation grew, we were honoured to be featured in The Straits Times and magazines like Vogue and Tatler, giving our battle and breakthrough against acne a spotlight. Our proudest moment came when, amongst worldwide beauty brands, Skinlycious stood out as the first and sole Singaporean brand to be selected to join Sephora Accelerate 2020—a program designed to foster the talents of women entrepreneurs in the beauty space.
Now that I’m a mum to two beautiful kids, those same worries have surfaced again, but this time with a difference. I confidently told my mum one day, smiling, “Even if my kids inherit our bad skin genes, they wouldn’t have to suffer as we did. We have effective solutions now.”
And whenever I notice my 10-year-old son starting to show early signs of acne—those pesky little precursors, the whiteheads—I remind him gently, “Please use the Skinlycious Calming Cleanser; it will help those bumps disappear. Otherwise, they could worsen into full-blown pimples.”
The author with her two children at Jewel Changi Airport.
Throughout my 14-year battle with acne, I discovered a vital truth: the secret to defeating acne lies not in harsh treatments, but in prevention and the use of gentle products crafted by individuals who understand acne-prone skin intimately.
And this is the philosophy we’ve incorporated into Skinlycious. We are committed to selecting gentle yet effective ingredients to protect and enhance healthy skin. Our philosophy goes beyond just selling products; it’s also about educating people on how to find the ideal water and oil balance for their skin, which is essential for a naturally clear and radiant complexion.
It fills me with immense pride to see my mum, now a radiant 70-year-old, with smooth, glowing skin, using the full line of Skinlycious products. My dad, brothers, and even my husband have adopted the Skinlycious routine into their daily regimens, enhancing our collective sense of fulfillment.
The author with her mom and youngest child during Chinese New Year.
We stand by the efficacy of our product range, meticulously formulated to cater to different needs. For teens who prefer simplicity and minimal fuss in their skincare routines, we offer a straightforward, one-step solution with our Calming Cleanser. For those grappling with stubborn acne issues, we’ve created a comprehensive skincare package with our Skinlycious Starter Kits.
Skinlycious is more than a skincare brand to us; it’s our beacon of hope shared with tens of thousands of users. Seeing these ever-growing numbers shine as confident, radiant individuals, no longer fighting and hiding their acne but flaunting beautiful and healthy skin, fills us with profound pride and satisfaction. It reaffirms the reason we began this journey: to share our solution with everyone who needs it, to help them rewrite their skincare story just like we did.
Every time we read one of the 2k five-star reviews on Shopee Singapore, we are reminded of how far we have come. It’s not just the fact that our products are being celebrated, it’s seeing the transformative journey of each individual behind these reviews. Teens, who once found themselves locked in a battle with acne, are now exuding newfound self-confidence thanks to clear radiant skin. Knowing that we’ve played a role in these life-changing stories is a profound honor for us.
Our range, while suitable for all ages and skin types, is specifically regarded as a skincare savior for tweens and teens at the dawn of their skincare journey, facing the potential challenges of acne. We focus on creating a line of products that are gentle yet effective, easy to use, and especially attuned to the skin needs of this age group.
Begin your Skinlycious journey today. Choose the path to healthy, smooth and glowing skin; and embrace the confidence it brings. Remember, you hold the reigns to rewrite your skincare story, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
FOR BUSY TWEENS & TEENS
Imagine Clean and Moisturised Skin after Every Wash
Calming Cleanser
Moisturises while Cleansing Gently
SGD 36.00
Experience the gentle yet effective cleansing power of Skinlycious Calming Cleanser, as if you’ve just stepped out of a luxurious facial spa. This soap-free cleanser is formulated with clean and natural ingredients that work harmoniously to balance and soothe your skin, combating redness and leaving you with a clean and balanced complexion after every wash.
Click to learn more about Skinlycious Calming Cleanser
FOR THE OILY SKIN TEEENS
Fresh and Hydrated Skin after every use
Cleanse and Hydrate Bundle
Hydrates, Normalizes Sebum Production, and Cleanses Gently
SGD 78.00
Treat your tween or teen to a daily dose of gentle skincare with Skinlycious Calming Cleanser—a parent-approved way to wash away the day’s grime without upsetting their young skin. It’s carefully formulated to tackle redness and keep their complexion clear and calm.
After cleansing, our Skinlycious Hydrating Serum steps in to deeply hydrate without causing breakouts or leaving any oily, sticky residue. It’s perfect for keeping young skin balanced and comfortably moisturized.
Combining the cleanser with the hydrating serum forms a simple yet effective skincare duo that helps to keep breakouts at bay and maintain the natural glow of their youthful skin. Together, they’re a nurturing, straightforward skincare routine fit for your growing kids.
Click to learn more about Skinlycious Cleanse and Hydrate Bundle
FOR BREAKOUT-PRONE TEENS AND ADULTS
All you Need to Get Clearer Skin Fast
Clear Skin Starter Kits
Get visible improvements in 7 days (or your money back)
SGD 89.00 SGD 39.00
Step into the world of clear, radiant skin with the Skinlycious Clear Skin Starter Kits. These purposefully curated kits are packed with products that are tough on acne but gentle on your skin, tackling different root causes of breakouts and effectively reducing zits overnight.
Backed by a legacy of over two decades dedicated to conquering acne, Skinlycious doesn’t just give you effective products; they give you a game plan. With the unique half-face test grounded in skincare science, you find out exactly what routine makes your skin happiest, thereby saving time and money.
Oily skin? Breakouts? No sweat—the Essentials Starter Kit has your back. Dry skin folks, we’ve got your back too with the Complete Starter Kit that packs in that extra moisture your skin needs. Get ready for skin that’s not just clear, but also smooth and glowing, with Skinlycious.
Click to learn more about Skinlycious Clear Skin Starter Kits
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING
Ryan
“I’ve used Skinlycious Calming Cleanser for 1.5 years and swear by it! It’s the only facial product that controls my oily skin effectively and face stays matt way longer. Amazing product!”
Vanessa
“The Calming Cleanser is my top favorite Skinlycious product. I use their whole range. It effectively cleanses the face without leaving it dry or stripping away all the oil. It doesn’t irritate my eczema and acne-prone skin.”
Sissy
“This is the cleanser I can’t live without. I love the cleanser because it’s non-drying and gentle on the skin. And the best part is unlike the other cleansers, this one does a good job on oil control. My face is finally not greasy.”
Helissa
“Skinlycious Calming Cleanser is gentle yet thoroughly cleanses, leaving skin soft and moisturized. It’s not like those gentle cleanser that leaves an icky after feel. It’s really good!”
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, absolutely! We have helped individuals as young as 9 years old achieve clear, smooth skin. Skinlycious products are gentle and suitable for daily use, effectively targeting acne by reviving healthy skin. Once acne is cleared, tweens and teens can stop using the spot correctors and continue with just the Calming Cleanser and Hydrating Serum.
Products are made in a certified Good Manufacturing Practice(GMP) factory in Singapore. Rigorous lab testing and certifications have been done to ensure safety of our products. All acne and sunscreen products are notified with US FDA.
Complete Starter Kit Reduces acne + Moisturises and Protects while Essentials Starter Kit Reduces acne.
Complete Starter Kit has 3 more additional products than Essentials Starter Kit, namely Barrier Booster Moisturiser, Sunscreen and Sunscreen/Makeup Remover.
Essentials Starter Kit is ideal for those who:
- Prefer minimal skincare routines
- Are new to skincare
- Are men
- Have oily skin (Hydrating Serum serves as an oil-free moisturiser)
Complete Starter Kit is best for those who:
- Have dry skin
- Wants a proper complete skincare routine
- Are 25 years and older
Skin starts cellular ageing at 25! It’s time to have a proper complete skincare routine that prevents pigmentations and slows down skin ageing.
Just give us 1-2 working days to prepare your order once you have placed your order and another 1-2 working days for the courier to deliver.
Do note that we don’t work on weekends and on Singapore’s Public Holidays.
In Both Kits
Calming Cleanser
Water, Calamine, Glycerin, Olive Oil peg-7 Esters, Lactic Acid, Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate, Phenoxyethanol, Xanthan Gum, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Methyl Oleoyl Taurate, Hydrolyzed Whey Protein, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Trisodium STarter Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Sodium Benzoate.
Glow Exfoliant
Water, Alcohol Denat., Mandelic Acid, Salicyclic Acid (2%), Glycerin, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Butylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin.
Hydrating Serum
Water, Glycerin, Sodium PCA, Sodium Hyaluronate, Butylene Glycol, Glycine, Serine, Glutamic Acid, Aspartic Acid, Leucine, Alanine, Lysine, Arginine, Tyrosine, Phenylalanine, Threonine, Proline, Valine, Isoleucine, Histidine, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol.
Clarifying Serum
Water, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Niacinamide, Xanthan Gum, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin.
In Complete Kit Only
Barrier Booster Moisturiser
Water, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, Betaine, Glycerin, Propanediol, Squalane, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Polyacrylate-13, Saccharide Isomerate, Phenoxyethanol, Nelumbo Nucifera (Lotus) Leaf Extract, Polyisobutene, Panthenol, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Psidium Guajava (Guava) Leaf Extract, Angelica Gigas Extract, Carbomer, Tocopherol, Helianthus Annus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Polysorbate 20, Caramide NP, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP, Phytosphingosine, Cholesterol, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Xanthan Gum, Sorbitan Isostearate, Citric Acid, Sodium Citrate, Butylene Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Hydroxide
*cold-pressed
Multi Protection Mineral Sunscreen
Water, PEG-7 Caprylic/Capric Glycerides, Olive Oil PEG-7 Esters, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Pinus Pinaster Bark Extract, Curcuma Longa Root Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate, Saccharide Isomerate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Glycerin, Sorbitol, Propanediol, Docosahexaenoic Acid, Citric Acid, Phytosphingosine, Sodium Citrate, Water, Cyclopentasiloxane, Zinc Oxide, PEG-10 Dimethicone, Titanium Dioxide, Hydrogenated Polydecene, Butylene Glycol, HDI/Trimethylol, Hexyllactone Crosspolymer, Hydrogen Dimethicone, Ethylene/Acrylic Acid Copolymer, Silica, Lauryl PEG-9 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Olea Europe Leaf Extract, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Chloride, Aluminium Hydroxide, Allantoin, Sodium Citrate, Ethylhexylglycerin.
Soothing Cleansing Gel
Water, PEG-7 Caprylic/Capric Glycerides, Olive Oil PEG-7 Esters, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Pinus Pinaster Bark Extract, Curcuma Longa Root Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate, Saccharide Isomerate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Glycerin, Sorbitol, Propanediol, Docosahexaenoic Acid, Citric Acid, Phytosphingosine, Sodium Citrate, Eicosapentaenoic Acid, Xanthan Gum, Ethylhexylglycerin, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Phosphatidylcholine, Phenoxyethanol.
✓ Formulated without Sulfates, Parabens, Phthlates, Formaldehyes, Fragrances/Dyes, Essential Oils
Yes, absolutely! You have up to 90 days to get all your money back if, for any reason, you don’t see the results within 5 days.
So, get your starter kit today and become one of the 10,000 acne fighters who won their battles with acne!
