Pores majeure

“I wanted to create a space where science and compassion could come together to craft tailored solutions that truly worked for each individual.”

DERMATOLOGIST April Rivera saw firsthand how people struggling with skin problems weren’t getting proper treatment and were relying on over-the-counter or mass-market solutions.

She sees a pressing need for a clinic that doesn’t just treat symptoms but takes the time to understand the root causes of each patient’s skin issues.

“The decision to put up Remedy Skin Solutions in 2019 was driven by my deep desire to offer solutions to acne-ridden skin, as someone who experienced the same fate when I was younger,” Rivera told The Manila Times. “I also wanted to create a space where science and compassion could come together to craft tailored solutions that truly worked for each individual.”

Rivera, chief executive officer, co-founder and medical director of Remedy Skin Solutions, realized the need for a skin clinic that provides customized treatments for various skin concerns.

“Skin is influenced by a myriad of factors, from genetics to environment, diet and stress levels, and not everyone has the same background,” she explained.

“A one-size-fits-all approach when treating one’s skin concerns doesn’t work.

“I also noticed people continue to search for more than just products; they want guidance, education and tailored solutions that not only improve their skin but also boost their confidence and overall well-being.

“From this, I envisioned a space where we could combine both needs — advanced dermatological science with a deeply personal approach. At Remedy Skin Solutions, we take into heart our patients’ needs, analyzing their unique skin profiles and creating a treatment plan that fits them perfectly.”

The brand has evolved and grown through the years, from focusing on acne and scar treatments to adding anti-aging offerings.

“When the clinic first opened in 2019, our primary focus was on addressing common skin concerns like acne and scars, which are so prevalent and can deeply affect an individual’s confidence,” Rivera granted.

“Over the years, as our patient base grew and we deepened our understanding of their diverse skincare needs, it became clear many people were also looking for solutions to the natural signs of aging — wrinkles, fine lines and the overall loss of skin elasticity. That’s when we decided to integrate anti-aging treatments into our offerings.”

Remedy Skin Solutions was barely a year old when the pandemic struck in 2020.

“Like countless health care providers, we faced unprecedented challenges during the pandemic when regulations required extended closures,” Rivera recalled. “Yet this moment of crisis sparked innovation.

“We rapidly embraced digital transformation, pioneering comprehensive virtual care solutions in the region. This represented a dramatic shift for patients accustomed to traditional in-person visits.

“That started with a 45-minute video consultation, which includes a skin analysis, followed by a discussion with the patient on their skin issues, goals, current skincare and lifestyle regimen. Products are then shipped to the patients, and post-treatment analysis follows.”

Over the past three years, Remedy Skin Solutions has had the privilege of bringing three brands to the Philippines as its exclusive launch partners. Rivera cannot be any prouder with their business milestone.

Innoaesthetics, a prestigious Spanish dermocosmetic brand with 120 years of heritage, is renowned for its advanced skincare solutions and transdermal treatments. Its innovative treatments, including FaceNade, Restructurer and Matrix, have delivered outstanding results, earning praise from patients for their effectiveness in skin rejuvenation.

MeLine is a specialized brand dedicated to addressing hyperpigmentation, with products and treatments thoughtfully designed to address common Filipino skin concerns.

SkinPen is America’s leading microneedling device.

“As a practitioner, I’m particularly passionate about this treatment because it uniquely stimulates the body’s natural collagen production — a true breakthrough in skin regeneration,” Rivera asserted.

“Before introducing any of these innovations to our patients, we conducted extensive research and testing to ensure they met our rigorous standards for safety and efficacy. “

Rivera saw the advantage of being a business owner that is fulfilling and, at times, also hard. “The industry moves at a rapid pace,” she maintained. “It’s good to see Filipinos becoming more aware of the importance of skin health.

“However, there’s still a need to further educate consumers on what makes a solution effective and the benefits of customized skin solutions for different skin types. Collaborating with our patients to develop the right solutions for their skin wellness journey is both challenging and rewarding.

“The global rise of K-beauty is driving a surge in skin technology innovations. It’s an exciting time for the industry, though it comes with the challenge of finding effective and affordable skin solutions for price-sensitive markets like the Philippines.

“That ongoing cycle of building, learning and exploring new skin solutions has become my greatest professional joy despite the challenges.”

After studying medicine and practicing for six years, Rivera experienced a bit of burnout. She decided to take a break by doing something fun and unexpected — a shave ice business in Boracay.

“I became a ‘dreampreneur,’ spending months on the island perfecting exotic flavor combinations,” Rivera shared.

“Although the perfect storefront proved elusive and the venture never materialized, the experience brought me back to my true calling. I returned to complete my dermatology residency and eventually founded Remedy.

“Looking back, that botched business venture was anything but a failure. It taught me an invaluable lesson: detours often lead us exactly where we’re meant to be. For me, that meant staying rooted in dermatology.

“Remedy allows me to bring together all my passions — dermatology, research and design — into one fulfilling endeavor, pushing the boundaries of what I can create and achieve.”

Growing up, Rivera acknowledged two “powerful” influences: her dad, who built his own construction business and taught her to appreciate thoughtful design, and her grandparents, both doctors, who inspired her love of medicine.

“Now, I get to blend both worlds — practicing dermatology while creating spaces that make our patients feel at ease,” Rivera said. “It’s amazing how life comes full circle, letting me combine these passions in ways I never imagined as a child.”

Her father is her biggest role model and inspiration.

“I saw him work hard every day, explore different aspects of his passion and ultimately turn them into thriving businesses,” Rivera said.

“He’s 71 now, and he’s still working as hard as before, not because he has to but because he enjoys it, and I hope to emulate that one day.”

Her last trip before the pandemic was to Niseko in Hokkaido, Japan, with her oldest son and husband. Her most recent trip to Switzerland was with her mother, father, siblings and husband.

Rivera’s medical journey started at the Ateneo de Manila University (AdMU) for her pre-med studies, followed by medical school and dermatology residency at the University of Santo Tomas (UST).

Thankfully, Rivera gets to juggle time between work and home and keeps a balance between the two. “Being an entrepreneur and a parent is a constant juggling act,” Rivera admitted.

“I’ve learned that true balance isn’t about doing it all — it’s about being fully present for what matters most in each moment. Rather than trying to do everything at once, I focus on whatever needs my attention most at that time. When I’m not wearing my business or parent hat, I recharge through workouts and reading. It’s not always perfect, but it works.”

Thanks to her husband’s influence, the sauna has become Rivera’s daily ritual of relaxation. “At home, some of my favorite moments are the simple ones with our kids — whether we’re making a mess in the kitchen with our baking adventures, diving into video game worlds together, or just curled up on the couch sharing stories from our latest books.”

Rivera is fortunate to have her husband as her co-founder and COO (chief operating officer) at Remedy Skin Solutions.

“I fondly call him my ‘enabler’ because he has this amazing ability to transform my vision into reality,” she beamed. “His deep entrepreneurial experience has been invaluable — he’s not just my partner in life but my trusted sounding board, helping me navigate the daily challenges of building and growing our business.

“Having someone who believes in your dreams and has the expertise to help bring them to life is truly a blessing.”

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QUICK QUESTIONS

WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST FEAR?

Not doing enough.

WHAT REALLY MAKES YOU ANGRY?

When attention to detail is lacking.

WHAT MOTIVATES YOU TO WORK HARD?

My desire to turn my vision into reality.

WHAT MAKES YOU LAUGH THE MOST?

My husband’s bad jokes.

WHAT WOULD YOU DO IF YOU WON THE LOTTO?

Build more Remedys and try to find ways to increase our impacts.

IF YOU COULD SHARE A MEAL WITH AN INDIVIDUAL, LIVING OR DEAD, WHO WOULD THEY BE?

Elon Musk.

WHAT WAS THE LAST BOOK YOU READ?

“Zero to One” by Peter Thiel and Blake Masters.

WHICH CELEBRITY WOULD YOU LIKE TO MEET FOR A CUP OF COFFEE?

Gwyneth Paltrow.

WHAT IS THE MOST DARING THING YOU HAVE EVER DONE?

Start a business!

WHAT IS THE ONE THING THAT YOU WILL NEVER DO AGAIN?

Work for someone else.