FEATURE
e ar c in k S d n a e in c i d e M A FUSION OF
By Louise May
Meet Kara Johns, a dedicated General Practitioner, and the creative force behind SBK Skincare. Her journey in healthcare, inspired by her own skincare challenges, led to the birth of a brand that blends medical expertise with a love for skincare. Kara’s story represents resilience and entrepreneurial spirit, making a lasting impact on holistic wellness and self-care. Editor Louise May chats with Kara Johns about her journey to date, and her new Skincare brand
Can you share with us how your journey in the industry began?
As a child, I struggled with eczema, and later, as a young adult, I faced various skin issues like dermatitis, acne, and rosacea. I noticed that certain products exacerbated these conditions, prompting me to pay closer attention to the products I used. My fascination with skincare peaked during medical school in my late 20s, as I started seriously considering my skin’s health. During a rotation with a passionate GP specialising in skincare, I delved deeper into learning about different brands, their products, and individual ingredients.
What motivated you to start SBK, and what’s the inspiration behind the brand? Several factors. Firstly, my medical career wasn’t unfolding as expected due to personal choices
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like becoming a parent and dealing with health challenges. Secondly, my passion for skincare had become consuming—I was constantly researching, watching videos, and trying skincare from around the world. Thirdly, my health challenges impacted my income, prompting me to explore ways to support myself and my family if I had to step back from being a medical doctor. One night, while struggling with skeletal joint pain, the idea of creating my own skincare brand struck me with excitement and joy, pushing me to pursue this new venture.
weeks were humbling, and I grappled with the drastic shift in my life’s dynamics. I struggled with the societal perception of motherhood conflicting with my professional identity. Eventually, finding a balance by gradually returning to work made me a happier parent. It clarified what truly mattered to me—being an active parent while still pursuing my personal goals, which had gained new significance now that I had a little one to look up to.
How did becoming a parent change your perspective on life and your career goals?
After the challenging first year of motherhood, I thought life would gradually ease up. However, spondyloarthritis started affecting me when my son was about one year old. The gradual onset and subsequent diagnosis were tough to grapple with. Initially hopeful that medications would control the disease, I faced the reality of their side effects slowing me down. I had to change
Becoming a parent was an intense experience. It was something I had longed for, but the journey to pregnancy was challenging. The pregnancy itself was difficult, impacting my career and confidence. After my son was born, the initial
How has your recent diagnosis with spondyloarthritis affected your daily life and career aspirations?
