Meet Alisha: Licensed Aesthetician and Renude skincare expert

When did you first realise you wanted a career in skin?

I first realised I wanted a career in skincare/ dermatology when I was about 6 years old. I used to formulate my own skincare products by mixing my mum’s natural oils with whatever I could find in the kitchen cupboard and pretended to sell them in my made up shop. I started doing facials on my family and educating them on the skincare benefits and diagnosing their skin issues (instead of calling it acne or spots, I diagnosed them with bumps) LOL.

Tell us a bit about your experience in the industry 

I started out in the industry in 2010. I started off doing typical beauty therapy/ spa type treatments such as massage, waxing and relaxing facials. A couple years later, I landed my first aesthetics job in Harley Street where the majority of my advance treatment/ product training took place. The company really invested in my training and I worked alongside top plastic surgeons and doctors. I qualified in many treatments such as Laser Hair Removal, Chemical Peels, Microneedling, Obagi/ ZO Skin Health Skincare and Laser Tattoo Removal. Years later, I worked for Dr Anita Sturnham (who featured as a guest doctor on the Embarrassing Bodies TV Series and the owner of Nuriss Skin Clinic and Decree skincare line). All my roles have been based in Central London, working on all skin types.

What would you say had been your career highlight? 

My career highlight was working alongside and learning from pioneers in the industry. Attending industry awards such as My Face My Body and winning awards was always exciting and memorable.

What is your favourite thing about working in skincare?

My favourite thing about working in skincare is making a difference to people’s lives by restoring their confidence. Seeing a client for the first time during a consultation with low self-esteem then seeing them weeks later as a new confident person, makes it easy to get out of bed in the morning to go to work.

What ingredients are in your personal skincare routine?

I will always have Vitamin C, Alpha Arbutin, Glycolic Acid, Retinol and sunscreen in my skincare routine. I am prone to Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation so brightening ingredients (tyrosinase inhibitors) are a must. I’m 29 years old so Retinol is key for anti-ageing and also a great multi-tasking ingredient that keeps any excess oil under control. All skin types can get skin cancer so I’ll always wear SPF30 in the day.

What do you love about working at Renude?

I love how affordable and accessible it is for customers to get expert skincare advice from the comfort of their home. I’m able to meet new people across the globe, which is awesome! I love recommending products from multiple cosmeceutical brands that deliver results for all skin types, rather than being limited to 1 or 2 brands (that are not suitable for all). I love how easy the platform is to use from both a customers and experts point of view. Having the freedom to work from home or anywhere in the world aligns with my values so Renude caters to my preferred lifestyle.

What is your best bit of skincare advice?

This is hard as there’s so much useful skincare advice!  However, the following is close to my heart:

1.   Not all products are made equally. Formulation is everything and makes all the difference.

2.   What goes on inside, reflects on the outside so keep your body and mind healthy.

3.   Patience and consistency is key! If you want results, you have to have an effective regime.

4.   Perfection doesn’t exist. Focus on skin health rather than having perfect skin.

5.   Not everything you read and hear on the Internet is correct. Seek professional advice to be safe.

6.   What works for your friend might not work for you. 

7. Use products formulated for your skin type and needs.

8. Less is sometimes more!