From living the true island life when growing up to traveling the world where she crossed paths with her now husband to building successful startups, including a skin care brand, while raising 3 kids, Sabina’s story is nothing short of inspiring.
She is a digital content strategist and founder of Spot On, a creative hub spot for everything digital in the world of branding. She is also the force behind the cult skin care brand, Baréskin Singapore, that is paving the way for gender-neutral skincare that is effective yet non-toxic. Her deep intel on what the world is looking for in their daily skin care comes from her engaging 29K followers that she interacts with on her Facebook blog – a treasure trove for every skin care enthusiast.
Sabina truly believes in a community where we rise by lifting each other and tries to live by it as sincerely as she can. We had the privilege to speak to her and get a little insight
“mumpreneur” – do you identify with that word?
I absolutely love this new buzzword “mumpreneur”! Being very passionate about what I do and being a “present” mum of 3, I really wanted both my worlds to co-exist and this was an option I was determined to make work. It is not easy by any measure but it is definitely rewarding and fulfilling on so many levels.
What gives skincare enthusiasts so much faith in Baréskin products?
Given the nature of my job as a branding strategist and the fact that I run a blog that dives into skincare products, it gives me a deep insight into what women and men really want for their skin aesthetically as well as in the product itself. I used all of that feedback when creating Baréskin and kept at it until I was satisfied with the efficacy of the formulas. Its “clean” factor was a very vital part for me as well as ease of use. You will see it in the existing products and the new ones as we roll them out and hopefully you will be hooked too!
You seem to have glowing skin! Is it genetics or good skin care?
Honestly, I have not had the luxury of effortless good skin by any measure. So when I do get a compliment on my skin today, it takes me a moment to let it sink in!
I was always intrigued by skin care but it was never a part of my daily routine because it all seemed too tedious and truth be told, very mysterious! Until the day I started reading labels and figuring out what my skin was responding to. That’s when I started my blog MommyBeauty101 on Facebook where I started documenting my journey in the sea of products and demystifying cluttered drugstore shelves and aisles.
How do you manage skin care in the midst of it all?
When I developed Baréskin Singapore, I was very mindful of the fact that many women, like myself, have very little time to indulge in themselves. So during the product development stage I was very mindful of the fact that it had to be a quick and easy process but highly effective and easily fused with existing products on the customers shelf. The 2 game changers for me have been a hydrating cleanser and a nourishing facial oil that mimics our skins natural oils.
How can a person incorporate your best selling products into their skin care routine?
That’s a great question and something that most Baréskin converts love about our products.
* The Glacial Cleanser is a great addition to the new and much needed “double-cleanse” movement. It’s the process where a 2nd layer of deep cleaning is needed after you clean your skin with a makeup remover after which this cleanser is a great second and final step. Our effective cleanser not only cleans but also hydrates your skin and preps it so that it absorbs the rest of the topical skin care that goes on after wards. It can also replace your harsh toner any day. It is also a great alternative to your daily face wash or soap which usually foam way too much and strip your skin from its natural oils. Lastly, I sometimes mix a pump of this into my exfoliator to give it that extra cleansing oomph.
* The Facial Elixir works best when used as the final step in your night time skincare regimen. Using a jade roller or even just your finger tips to massage the product in, encourages lymphatic drainage and reduces puffiness. When mixed in with your existing moisturizer, it makes your skin care routine more potent, effective and helps in the absorption of all the products with a matte finish. It can also be infused into your foundation if you have dry skin for a flawless dewy finish. The #nonasties formula is hydrating with healing properties that soothe and nourish.
Who inspires you and tell us a mantra you live by?
The women around me, my friends and family, inspire me and influence me for the better to a very large extent. It is so important to surround yourself with the people who encourage you and more importantly, whole-heartedly believe in you. I have been extremely fortunate in that respect and I don’t take it for granted.
“There are no short cuts to success” – This cannot be emphasised enough. We live in a world of instant gratification but success is far from instant. If you are diligent, consistent and hard working – success WILL follow.
Any advice for other mothers who want to excel in their career path while raising kids?
The role of being a mother will always be the closest to your heart but having a passion and striving for it will make you a better parent and an exemplary role model for your children. I have 2 daughters who are constantly watching me and a son who takes cues from observing how his mum prioritises. Those are important life lessons you want your children to learn which cannot be preached but only set by example. Follow your passion with a consistent stride and everything else will fall into place.
Having real conversations with your children is also very important as you navigate the journey of balancing your career and motherhood. I am very open about the daily challenges of scheduling conflicts, school project deadlines colliding with work due dates, screen time for them while I am at work etc and very often I ask for their input on how to make it work. They know that I value their opinion and that empowers them to do the right thing and extend their support whole heartedly. That unconditional relationship with your children is priceless!
