My dream is to see every woman develop healthy, flawless skin poise —Jeraldine Esozie

Jeraldine Esozie, a graduate of Microbiology from the University of Ilorin, Kwara State, is the Creative Director of Skin Poise and the founder of Skin Poise Academy. In this interview with TAYO GESINDE, she speaks on the reason she is promoting organic skincare products.

What motivated you to go into cosmetology?

I studied Microbiology from the University of Ilorin, Kwara State. I chose Microbiology out of curiosity for the life that exists that is not accessible to the naked eyes. I needed to know more about happenings in my environment.While I was in school, my pastor who knew about my dream to own my own skincare line advised I first do an internship with an already established company in the business to learn the ropes well enough before launching out on my own.After I graduated in 2012, I worked for a while before joining Forever living products international as a business owner in 2016. My mentor in the business – Mrs Adeyinka Ibidunni trained me on make-up and skincare. That was when my curiosity was aroused. I took different courses on skincare and formulation before launching my own brand- Keziah’s Glow which I rebranded in 2018 as Skin Poise. Remi Owadokun and Debbie Ibiyemi

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Why are you advocating for organic skincare?

I am advocating for organic skincare products because I have been privileged to work with clients with badly damaged skin which was due to the use of various products with chemicals such as steroids and hydroquinone. The skin happens to be the largest organ of the body with numerous openings which means whatever is applied on the skin eventually gets into the body. It’s safe to use organic or natural products that you are sure will not pose any threat to your health on the long run.

What are the major types of skin diseases and their treatments?

The major causes of skin diseases include Hormonal changes, exposure to sunlight, reaction to certain foods and medications, compromised or damaged skin barrier, microbial which could be viral, fungal or bacterial. Treatment depends on the disease or blemish and it’s cause. It is advised to maintain a consistent skincare regimen. Find out what works for your skin type and stick with it.

Tips on how to have flawless skin?

Sleep for at least 7 – 8 hours daily as stress causes several skin problems.Drink up to 2 litres of water daily. It keeps your internal organs hydrated and your skin healthy. Do not wait until you are thirsty before drinking. Never sleep with makeup on your face. Ensure to remove makeup and wash your face even when you are too tired to take a bath.Change your sponge often. They are not meant to be permanent. Do not use a sponge for more than 2 months if synthetic and 2 weeks if  a loofah or local sponge. Wash your pillowcases often. Use a separate towel for your face and body and ensure to wash the face towel every 2 days.Avoid popping your pimples and touching your face generally so you don’t transfer terms from your nails to your face. Eat balanced diets. Exercise often and shower immediately afterwards. Clean your mobile phones with a sanitizer weekly because of surfaces where you might have dropped the phone.Use of sunscreen during the day even when it is cloudy

What is your opinion on toning and bleaching?

Toning and bleaching is a personal decision and I wouldn’t condemn those that do it but my advise is that if you must do it, then stick with products you can trust and not just any off the shelf.

Challenges?

People judge you by the number of your followers but you might have a large following and not all of them will patronize you.

Advice for young people?

Love and embrace your skin type. Find