Since the onset of puberty, my relationship with my skin has been nothing short of tumultuous. With the exception of my melanin, there wasn't much to boast about. My skin demanded constant attention and care. Like countless others, I turned to YouTube in search of remedies for my heavily scarred, acne-prone complexion. I blindly followed the advice of those who had yet to experience the trials of challenged skin, experimenting with every trend imaginable. From Korean 10-Step regimens to the use of Clarisonic and Foreo Lunas, physical exfoliants to spot treatments, sheet masks to harsh acne products—my skincare routine knew no bounds. I tried it all.
Initially, these products and rituals seemed to yield results. But after 6-8 months, my skin rebelled entirely. I found myself with over-sensitized skin, heightened redness, more acne, increased dryness, and an outright rejection of any product applied to my face. Discouragement and fear gripped me—I was hesitant to try anything new. Hopelessness settled in, and I felt worse about myself than before embarking on this journey. The very thing I sought to avoid was now my reality.
It wasn’t until a close family member with enviably smooth and radiant skin completed their simple skincare routine in front of me that I felt a glimmer of hope and curiosity. Despite sharing the same genetic pool, their regimen consisted merely of a bar of Dove soap and Aveeno face moisturizer, applied morning and night without issue. Yet, if I attempted the same, my face would immediately feel parched and appear lackluster. How could two people with similar genetics experience such disparate outcomes? What was I missing? Was I merely falling prey to marketing gimmicks and promises of eternal youth, or was there a deeper issue at play that necessitated professional intervention?
Unable to find a definitive answer, I embarked on a new skincare journey in November of 2019 with renewed determination. My goal was to unravel the intricacies of skin needs and how they may vary from person to person. I believed that by understanding these needs, I could uncover the solutions that had thus far eluded me.
I delved deep into the realms of both internal and external skin health, devouring countless medical journals on ingredients, sourcing, processing, application, and benefits. I even pursued a certification in Medicinal Plants to gain a deeper understanding of nature's healing and nourishing properties. I became discerning in whose advice I followed in the cosmeceutical and wellness arenas, leaning on experts such as Caroline Hirons, Dr. Axe, Dr. Gundry, and my own father—a Chemical Engineer by trade.
Through relentless research, trial, and error, I arrived at a profound realization: that health, in all its forms, is a journey of self-love. My skin yearned for me to accept it for what it was, to acknowledge, learn from, and appreciate it, so that I could provide it with the care it truly needed.
It is through this transformative journey that I have not only rebuilt my confidence but also continued to heal my skin. My aspiration now is to share the invaluable lessons and revelations I've gained with you, so that you too may embark on a journey of self-discovery and self-care.
-with love
DIPARTURE, CEO & Founder
