The M U S E series presents individuals with compelling personalities in a new light. In this virtual interview series we get up close with their skincare journey featuring authentic shots through their own lens.

Keep scrolling and join me in unpacking all things skin with our #skincrush. Who knows, you probably share the same skin type and these tips may apply to you.

Meet Alinafe Thupa, Management Consultant, Master’s Student & Content Creator

HAUT : Describe what you do
ALINAFE : I’m a management consultant, part-time master’s student and content creator

HAUT : What’s your skin type
ALINAFE : Combination oily

HAUT : Tell us about your current skin care routine
ALINAFE : I’m currently in the maintenance phase of 6-month acne treatment journey. I started getting cystic acne breakouts in July 2021 on my cheeks and jawline. Though they were not the
worst I’ve ever seen, I really struggled because I had never had acne before. So, I went to a
dermatologist who put me on a 5-month Tetralysal (antibiotic) course, Epiduo gel (prescription grade Vitamin A/Retinoid and Benzoyl Peroxide) and a very basic skincare routine. My skincare routine looks like:
– AM: Cleanse (Clinique Liquid Soap), moisturize (Clinique Dramatically Different
Moisturizing lotion and Moisture Surge hydrator), treat acne scars (Biluma spot
cream) and protect (Eucerin Sun Fluid Anti-age SPF 50)
– PM: Cleanse (Clinique Liquid Soap), moisturize (Clinique Dramatically Different
Moisturizing lotion and Moisture Surge hydrator), treat acne scars (Eucerin Even
Pigment Perfector spot corrector) and treat my overall face (Epiduo)

HAUT : What’s one thing you wished you learned sooner with regards to skin (yours in particular)
ALINAFE : Uneven skin tone is not the end of the world. My skin can still be healthy, vibrant, and
beautiful without being perfectly even toned.

HAUT : Your favourite skincare brand
ALINAFE : Clinique, an old faithful. For a couple of years, I experimented with various brands and even went to an aesthetics clinic trying to get the perfect, even-toned, no-texture skin. However, to
treat the acne, my dermatologist recommended I go back to the basics – my skincare routine
from my early 20’s. I use Clinique daily cleanser, daily moisturizer, and moisture surge; and
my skin feels glorious.

HAUT : What’s the last skin care product you finished and would you purchase it again?
ALINAFE : Epiduo and Collagen supplements – I swear by this combo for improving skin texture and
luminosity and will absolutely purchase again. There are many over-the-counter retinoids
available in the market, but they can be irritating. You need to find one that works for you,
start slow and always wear sunscreen because they make your skin sensitive.

HAUT : Any skin care tricks or tips to share
ALINAFE : Your diet and lifestyle is just as important as what you put on your skin. I struggle to always be consistent, but my skin looks its best when I’m following my skincare routine; AND
drinking water, eating healthier, taking my supplements, and getting enough sleep. Also, get
a satin pillowcase and clean your phone and makeup brushes regularly.

HAUT : Skincare words of encouragement
ALINAFE : Skincare is a journey, not a destination. There are so many factors that influence your skin; including age, hormones, stress, weather, air quality, diet, etc.; so, once you get something
under control, something else might pop up (literally). Enjoy the great skin moments when
they come and remember that your skin will eventually bounce back from the tough ones if
you get the right care.