'THIS BILDA' is a series that features interviews with creatives and founders in Asia and beyond.
Dr Shauna Tan has long understood the weight of societal expectations around appearance. Her early grounding in plastic surgery and aesthetic medicine provided not just technical expertise but a deeper awareness of how skin and aesthetic concerns often intersect with self-esteem.
Recognising this, and the limitations of makeup as a temporary solution, Dr Tan set out to create something more enduring with her skincare line Bareness.
Her philosophy? Simple, effective skincare, less makeup, and taking care of yourself. It’s not about perfect—it’s about feeling good in your skin. We speak to her this week about building self-confidence, practical skin tips, and so much more.
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No small talk - three tips for the best skin ever
Consistent routine and products, a healthy skin barrier, treating your gut right!
What inspired you to go into your field?
As someone who struggles with body dysmorphia and low self esteem, I knew early on that I wanted to have the skills to help others improve their appearance and build their confidence. However, aesthetic medicine can have high barriers to entry and so creating a platform and space like Bareness Skin that was more accessible to a larger audience was very important to me.
What’s a misconception or myth people have about skin/skincare?
That you need to you 10 to 11 steps or the most expensive products to achieve perfect skin.
Why did you start your brand Bareness?
I wanted to create a platform to share my expertise and knowledge, but also to put out efficacious, evidence based products for my consumers to maintain a minimal yet efficacious skincare routine for all skin types. The goal was really to educate women to better understand what skin health entails, and journey with them to achieve healthy skin at any age.
What’s a practical business tip you’d give to someone starting their own brand?
Stay focused on the heart of the brand. Sincerity and authenticity always shines through despite it all. It also helps to build consistency in the brand story and allows for consumers to relate far better to the brand.
How do you build self-confidence?
For me, putting in the hard work and effort to ensure my skin, body and mind are in the best possible state brings me confidence, even if there are flaws or imperfections. I also find it really important to surround myself with my tribe - good people who see you for who you are and are willing to remind you of all the best things about yourself!
What’s a non-negotiable for you when it comes to wellbeing?
Taking time for myself, in any shape of form! From making my matcha in the morning, plating my yogurt and berries together for breakfast, to setting aside time for my skincare night routine, journaling or cold plunges. No matter how short or long, it is so important to check in with myself and take the time to slow down.
How do you manage setbacks or failure?
To be honest, II tend to be really hard on myself and I don't handle failure the best! But over time, I've learnt that a single setback does not define me, and that I'm separate from my achievements or failures.
I have a post it on my mirror that has 3 things that I feel I can contribute to the world around me - Being kind, Loving my family and friends, Making someone smile. And when I feel like an absolute wreck, I look back at those three things and remind myself as long as I continue to do that, I've done well for the day!
What does success look like to you?
Success for me is having the means to make a difference to the best of my ability. That is what will bring true fulfilment and joy in my life!
What’s a dream collab you’d love to land?
This is such a tough question because there are so many brands I love!
I do love Westman Atelier and their brand philosophy of using minimal barely there makeup that is good for your skin to enhance your glow without focusing on covering blemishes or creating a “flawless” appearance. Working with them would be such a great way to integrate a seamless, minimal skincare and makeup routine.
Locally, there are two brands I personally use and love - Moom Health and Cheak Activewear. I find that skin health is merely one part of holistic health and wellness. Taking care of your body as a whole is so crucial to overall health and achieving that glow from within, so working with these brands would be a dream!
Are there any small businesses, startups, brands, or founders you think we should check out?
I really love Hideaway Singapore (at New Bahru) for creating a safe and inclusive space for wellness and self care. I also love Everiday Foods, which focuses on gluten free products made from whole foods - good delicious food that is good for your gut! Crucial for achieving skin health in the long term.
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Learn more about Dr Shauna Tan and Bareness.