The skincare community is vast and complex -- because people are vast and complex! Ohlolly talks with some of our favorite skincare enthusiasts and beauty influencers about the ins, outs, ups and downs of beauty. We discuss their skincare journeys, changes in the industry, and of course, their beauty tips and tricks.
Today, we're talking with Juan from @juanskindiary. A product photographer who's an expert at capturing and sharing beauty brands online, he's also well-versed in everything he shares, offering relatable reviews, skincare advice and more. We're so excited to chat with him about his perspective on this industry. Welcome, Juan!
Tell us a little about yourself and your skincare journey.
I’m Juan and I’m a product photographer and skincare enthusiast! On my platform, I talk about the behind-the-scenes of my job and anything beauty-related that I’m trying and loving at the time.
We love your photography. When did you begin to overlap your passions for photography and skin care?
I actually started my Instagram page (@juanskindiary) just to show what products I was using and if they were helping me with my skin concerns. I never thought about the photography aspect of it until about a year later. I started by experimenting with my product shots, and it’s evolved to something that I could’ve never imagined! I was able to do product photography full time a few months after purchasing my first camera, and I couldn’t be more excited to see what’s ahead for me!
What is your relationship like with the skincare community? What draws you to the beauty world?
When I first joined the skincare community, I didn’t see many men, especially POC men. I’m glad there’s been an increasing influx in recent times! The community is always so supportive and everyone tends to be honest about their experiences. I really love going on Instagram and engaging with my friends when I can, as a way to de-stress and feel inspired.
Has K-beauty impacted your skin care approach in any special way?
K-beauty has taught me a lot of things, but the two most important are sunscreen and skin health. When I initially got into skincare, the western sunscreens felt so thick and left an awful white cast. When I tried my first k-beauty sunscreen, it was like love-at-first-application!
There’s also a huge emphasis on skin barrier health. I don’t think that gets talked about enough: When your skin barrier is compromised, it’s always going to take longer to achieve your skin goals.
What sort of changes to the industry have you seen over the years (for better or worse)?
I’m glad to see that the industry is beginning to be way more inclusive and actually show real skin! Skin isn’t poreless, flawless or smooth. It has texture, pores and unevenness that’s completely normal.
Who (if anyone) has anyone influenced your interest in the skincare/beauty industry?
Way before starting my skincare IG, I was influenced by skincare YouTubers like James Welsh, Liah Yoo & Susan Yara, whom I’m happy to call friends now! I’ve learned so much from them, and they definitely inspired me to start my own page.
Do you have a tried & true favorite product?
I’m one of those people that have a few go-to products, but never just one! If I had to choose, I’d say the Krave Beauty Great Barrier Repair Serum is a favorite, because it’s saved my skin one too many times from exfoliating!
Do you have any too-good-not-to-share skincare hacks (could be for travel, daily routine, anything…)?
All trick and tips I learn or think of, I always share them since I feel it’s better to share the knowledge than to hoard it!
How have you been taking care of yourself in the last year? What does an ideal day of self-care look like?
I wish I could have a consistent routine in both my work and personal life, but that’s been really hard these past few months. I’m mainly trying to find balance at the moment and take everything one day at a time.
My ideal self-care night is lighting a candle, taking a nice long shower, and watching Netflix without worrying about anything else. Hopefully I’ll have more of these days once I learn how to balance everything out!
Thanks for chatting, Juan! Balance is indeed a balance...we're one day at a time right there with you.
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All Images courtesy of @Juanskindiary
