#MAKEITHAPPEN
Sarah Chapman, Skinesis Founder“Whilst I was creating makeup looks I started thinking, ‘How do we improve this rather than cover it?’ This is where my fascination with skin care began to evolve.”
Meet London-based Sarah Chapman, facialist to the stars. Trained as a makeup and special-effects artist, Chapman’s impressive career and roster of celebrity clients—everyone from the Duchess of Sussex to Victoria Beckham—has earned her a well-respected role in the beauty industry. As she began her shift from makeup to skin care, Chapman’s perseverance towards developing results-oriented formulas paid off: Today her brand, Skinesis, is recognized as one of the best in the market for its potent ingredients and skin-perfecting benefits.
If there’s one takeaway from our chat with the London-based entrepreneur, who also founded Skinesis Clinic in Sloane Square, it’s that beauty isn’t just skin deep—taking care of your overall health is key.
Here, we chat with Chapman on her own wellness routines, which include berry-filled smoothies and meetings at the park. Get to know her, and don’t forget to take notes for all her tips and tricks…
Sarah Chapman in the Albia tweed jacket and Bolton jean
My Hustle
I had a keen interest in beauty from childhood. After school I trained as a makeup artist in fashion and special effects. Whilst I was creating makeup looks I started thinking, "How do we improve this rather than cover it?" This is where my fascination with skin care began to evolve.
After my morning workout or walk I can often be found meditating, hanging upside down, on my inversion table—it gives me some zen before the busy-ness of the day takes over. And, of course, skin care is my absolute favorite relaxation ritual—nothing beats a facial massage for releasing tension.
Hash it out with Simon, my partner, who is also now CEO of my skin-care business. Many of our meetings take place during our morning walks in the park with the dogs; it’s an ideal setting for making decisions with a fresh head and mental space.
Developing my first Skinesis formulas! Over four years, many labs said that what I wanted to achieve couldn’t be done. But I persevered, and eventually found an American lab who understood my vision and helped to create my award-winning range.
how i make it happen
1. A mug of hot water with lemon—it kickstarts digestion, cleanses the system, and boosts your antioxidant levels and immunity.
2. A smoothie filled with fresh berries, protein powders, oat milk, nuts and collagen powder. I mix it up depending on how I feel that day.
3. Stretching, Peloton or a walk to clear the mind and motivate the soul.
1. Embrace the opportunities that come your way.
2. Beauty isn’t just skin deep—take care of your overall health.
3. Leave your digital devices downstairs when you go up to bed!
1. PMA—a positive mental attitude. I believe your mindset can help to create the world around you, so I try to stay positive.
2. Think outside the box—if something doesn’t seem possible, find a different way to approach your goal.
3. Don’t take no for an answer—push the boundaries and make the impossible possible.
Personal talisman...
My Italian Greyhounds, Sidney and Stanley.
You can do anything; you just need to figure out how.
my style
I tend to stick to a neutral palette—it makes switching between the office and clinic much easier.
My Chanel trainers! I’m on my feet a lot of the day or rushing from my clinic to the office—they’re comfortable, chic, and make me feel fabulous (even in flats)!
Get creative! We all look back at some stage with a "What was I thinking?" attitude when it comes to fashion… and then it all comes back round again. Dress for you, in something you love—it will fill you with confidence.
Effortless, chic, and confident.
my recharge
I enjoy listening to Liz Earle’s podcast, The Wellbeing Show. Wellbeing is now more of a focus than ever, and her show covers everything from fitness to gut health—well worth a listen for that 360-degree approach. Sometimes I’ll find a Netflix series and watch back-to-back, most recently Inventing Anna. I also just finished an online interior design course with Rita Konig on Creative Academy.
That would have to be my Skinesis Overnight Facial. In addition to powerful rejuvenating, health-boosting actives, its silky texture and essential oils make massaging it in a real self-care ritual.
Sunday brunch. I love an indulgent leisurely breakfast at weekends, either at home or a local Chelsea hotspot. Eggs and lots of English breakfast tea are always on the menu.
A cup of tea. It sounds basic, but it’s a real ritual of mine. Presentation is key—if English breakfast then a tea pot, china cup and saucer, and a little jug of oat milk are all essential, preferably all laid out on a tray and the tea must brew naturally for the flavors to infuse. If I am cutting down on caffeine then I really enjoy herbal, matcha and sencha. I did a Japanese tea ceremony in Kyoto, which teaches you to respect the tea.
The Duchess of Sussex—someone who has not taken the easy route. She is a kind soul who is generous and selfless with a strong desire to help others. After spending time together, I always feel inspired.
SHOP THE LOOK
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