Skincare is an essential aspect of many lives, with the global cosmetic industry expected to reach $429.8 billion by 2022, largely influenced by millennials.What adds intrigue to the cosmetic market’s growth are the indie beauty brands led by millennial women making significant strides. One such entrepreneurial standout is Dr. Shuting Hu of Acaderma,a skincare brand that merges the realms of academia and dermatology.
Dr. Hu, one of the youngest cosmetic scientists honored by the International Federation of Societies of Cosmetic Chemists, as per Forbes, was also part of Sephora’s Accelerate Program in 2018, a six-month initiative aiding female founders in establishing successful beauty ventures through mentorship.
We talked to Dr. Hu about her journey applying her academic background to establish a beauty brand from scratch, her passion for photography, and the challenges she encounters as both an entrepreneur and scientist.
Name: Shuting Hu, Founder of Acaderma
Age: 31
Current Location: San Francisco
Education: B.S. in biological science from Shanghai Ocean University; Ph.D. in biological science from the University of Hong Kong, specializing in skin biology and health benefits of natural ingredients.
What was your first job, and how did you land it?
My initial role was as a postdoctoral researcher, a progression from my Ph.D. research.
How did you enter the indie beauty sector? Was leaving a mark on the beauty industry always your ambition?
During my doctoral and postdoctoral studies, I focused on skin biology and the benefits of natural ingredients research. Our team uncovered unique active ingredients distinct from widely known substances like vitamin C. My vision was to translate these academic discoveries into practical solutions, rather than confine them to scientific papers online. Instead of pursuing a teaching position at a university, I chose the path of an entrepreneur.
How did you choose the name for your company, and what distinguishes your products?
The brand name integrates ‘academia’ and ‘dermatology’, signifying our use of academic technology to address skincare concerns. What sets us apart is our cutting-edge technology and top-notch ingredients subject to rigorous testing and supported by independent clinical trials. Each formula, clean and 9-free, excludes SLS/SLES, parabens, mineral oil, and other harmful components.
What sets us apart is our cutting-edge technology and top-notch ingredients subject to rigorous testing and supported by independent clinical trials.
How was your experience in the Sephora Accelerate program?
Through Sephora’s Accelerate program, I honed skills in brand identity creation, package design, digital marketing, leadership, and consumer surveys. Before Acaderma, I spent six years on natural ingredient and skin biology research, limiting exposure to marketing and sales aspects. During my selection interview at Sephora, struggling to convey scientific data concisely inspired me to bridge scientific complexity with brand integrity.
Before Acaderma, I spent six years on natural ingredient and skin biology research.
What advice do you offer young women with similar aspirations?
If addressing young female entrepreneurs, building a business entails mastering every facet and navigating challenges solo, making the process arduous yet enlightening. Embrace this learning curve as growth is gradual, unfolding with each project, enriching your life significantly.
Source: @acaderma
