Expat Choice caught up with Dr Isabelle Yeoh, founder of IYAC Aesthetic Clinic to find out more about what makes IYAC Skincare unique, and what’s in store for the brand. Image Credit: Dr Isabelle Yeoh, Founder of IYAC Aesthetic Clinic. Visit the IYAC Medspa Shop to enjoy Medspa June 2021 Anniversary Promotion.
What inspired you to start a line of clean, doctor-curated skincare?
I grew up with acne-prone skin and multiple food allergies. Clean, fresh, preservative-free food and the right supplements allowed me to transform my health and skin.
My father, an ear, nose and throat doctor and an allergy specialist, managed many patients’ allergies successfully with food avoidance and supplements. He believed in resorting to drugs only where necessary. This further convinced me of the body’s ability to heal itself, and that natural ingredients used at high doses can support this powerfully.
Similarly, when it comes to skincare, I want to give my skin pure, fresh ingredients that are safe and effective, so it can restore itself. I don’t want irritants or allergenic ingredients like sodium lauryl sulfate, parabens or synthetic fragrances on my skin.
IYAC Skincare was born from this, and from wanting to help my patients address their skin concerns with gentle, natural products that deliver real results.
How has your experience with patients influenced the development of IYAC Skincare?
When I started IYAC Skincare in 2009, not many clean skincare options were available. Most medicated skincare lines centered around acids, scrubs and retinoic acid, which all tend to be quite aggressive and harsh.
I was seeing more of my patients developing skin irritation and sensitivity from over-the-counter toiletries and cosmetics. I experienced this personally too. As a skincare and beauty products judge for a magazine, I once had to test several boxes of products. The result: a bad case of acne and irritation all over my face. I’ve seen many patients land up in the same position after using too many products with synthetic chemicals and additives.
However, when consumers look for organic, chemical-free alternatives, it can be hard for them to find any that are effective in a clinical setting. Most natural products tend to work well for those who already have good skin, but seldom make a difference when there's an actual skin concern. This is because the active ingredients used are usually not concentrated enough to impact skin health.
IYAC Skincare was created to fill this void. We offer clean, effective products curated by doctors and powered by high-dose active ingredients. These are natural and non-irritating even to those with very sensitive skin, but still deliver real results.
Talk us through how you come up with products for the IYAC Skincare line.
First, we listen to what our patients need. Then we look at the science of the problem, and work with trusted chemists to source potent active ingredients from nature. We then develop a gentle yet effective formulation to address that need.
For example, many patients have told us they want something that targets dry skin and fine lines under the eyes. They also want a product that is simple, convenient, and doesn’t involve too many steps.
Our response was to create our Stem Cell Sleeping Mask. It is lightweight, non-irritating, refreshing, and is easy for even the most time-strapped person to use. Best of all, it delivers proven results. Since we introduced it in 2015, it has become very popular with both male and female customers, and is one of our star products to this day.
IYAC's skincare has been around since 2009. Are there any new developments that you would like to share?
In the last few years, we have been very proud to have been certified cruelty-free by PETA. In addition, half our line is now vegan.
IYAC’s skincare line has been loved by our customers and patients for over a decade. But in addition to great anecdotal reviews, our signature anti-aging products are now also backed by independent clinical studies.
In a month-long dermatologist-led clinical trial on 22 Asian women between the ages of 40 and 60, 100% of subjects said their skin looked visibly younger after using our products, with reduced fine lines and wrinkles. 100% also said their skin felt plumper and more supple, showed improved clarity, and was better able to withstand environmental stress.
With these exciting results, our clients can have even greater assurance that IYAC's anti-aging products can reverse the ravages of time on skin, and protect it against daily assault from stress and pollution.
Any new products you’re excited about?
One of our upcoming new products is an ultra-lightweight moisturizer containing bakuchiol, a potent antioxidant from the leaves and seeds of the Psoralea corylifolia plant in India.
Bakuchiol is effective against fine lines, wrinkles and discolouration. It is also soothing and calming, with anti-acne benefits.
In clinical trials, bakuchiol was proven to be similar in efficacy to synthetic retinoids (still widely accepted as the number one anti-aging skincare ingredient today). However, despite its impressive results, bakuchiol causes none of the dryness, irritation, or increased UV sensitivity commonly seen with retinoids. This means it is safe to use throughout the day in sunny Singapore.
This product is a potential game-changer for acne-prone patients who want an effective, all-day anti-aging solution. Our ultra-lightweight formulation should also appeal to male clients, many of whom tell us they dislike the feel of creams on the skin.
What are your top tips for maintaining great skin?
Our skin is our largest organ, and requires quality ingredients for optimum health. Always read the labels on skincare products, so you know what you are buying.
If you have sensitive, breakout-prone skin, be extra careful with what you use.
Finally, our skin reflects how we take care of ourselves.
Keep healthy routines and good habits to rejuvenate your skin and body from within. Get plenty of sleep, drink lots of water, and eat your veggies and good fats. Don’t forget to make time to relax and slow down now and then, and think happy thoughts!
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About IYACÂ
IYAC Skincare was established in 2009 by Dr Isabelle Yeoh, the founder of IYAC Aesthetic Clinic. For over a decade, the brand has brought together Dr Yeoh’s medical expertise with that of experienced chemists in Singapore and S.Korea.
It harnesses pristine, high-dose natural ingredients to target acne, reverse the visible signs of aging and defend skin from stress and pollution.
IYAC Skincare’s signature anti-aging products[1] have been clinically proven and dermatologist-tested to hydrate skin and reduce wrinkles.
All products in the line are gentle and clean, meaning that they are free from potential irritants like parabens, phthalates, propylene glycol, preservatives, or synthetic fragrances. Textures are lightweight and suitable for all skin types. Every IYAC Skincare product has also been certified cruelty-free by PETA. Â
[1] (Hydrating Soothing Essence, Stem Cell Sleeping Mask and Muru Muru Recovery Cream)