More than Skin Deep
Meet the man who brings Nasa technology to beauty. Elizabeth Lee chats with Yannis Alexandrides of 111Skin
hen neil armstrong uttered the words, “One small step for a man, one giant leap for mankind”, he probably didn’t have beauty on his mind. But for cosmetic surgeon Yannis Alexandrides, who wanted to help his patients heal more quickly and effectively after surgery, it was all he could think about when he collaborated with Nasa space scientists. Due to the absence of gravity, skin ages faster in space, and astronauts are given the most advanced supplements and medications to counter accelerated ageing from cosmic radiation. With the knowledge gained from his research, Alexandrides formulated a serum with NAC Y2, an ingredient that would later be used in most of the products by skincare brand, 111Skin, where he is co-founder and CEO. Alexandrides shares his beauty philosophy and what is next for the brand.
Give us an elevator pitch about 111Skin.
We’re a luxurious skincare brand, and my extensive surgical knowledge as well as a dedicated team of professionals form the core of 111Skin. As a cosmetic surgeon for over 20 years, I found it difficult to find reparative skincare that I could confidently recommend to my patients post-surgery. I decided to seek my own formulations, which was why I developed NAC Y² with space scientists. This breakthrough initiated 111Skin and today, we are proud to possess five collections, multiple cosmeceutical innovations, and overwhelming global success.
What is your star product?
Our debut creation—the Y Theorem Repair Serum. It remains our core product. We have even created a light version suitable for more humid environments or younger skin.
Do you believe that “more is more”?
No, not necessarily. A good skincare regime should contain the right combination of products that use ingredients particularly suited to an individual’s concerns. As a starter routine, I would suggest cleanser, toner, serum, moisturiser, eye serum and SPF.
What are some beauty products you can’t live without?
I use the 111Skin Cryo Pre-activated Toning Cleanser every day, followed by the Daily Orbit Energising Essence NAC Y², Celestial Black Diamond Retinol Oil at night, Celestial Black Diamond Eye Contour Gel, and an SPF. I also love Aesop products for my hair and body, and finally Comme des Garçons aftershave.
What is hot in beauty this year?
Firstly, products that rival clinical procedures and replicate clinical results—one of my main motivations at 111Skin. Secondly, development in ingestible products that work from inside out, especially with the increased interest in health and nutrition. Also, skincare that tackles modern-day issues such as the overuse of mobile phones and other digital pollutants.
What is next for 111Skin?
I believe our new product launches represent the future of skincare; from high-tech concepts to supercharged ingredients, it’s going to be very exciting! We are just about to launch the Meso Infusion Day Defence Hydration Mask and Meso Infusion Overnight Clinical Mask that work in synergy around the clock to provide endless 24-hour hydration.