Dr. Liia Ramachandra, Pharm.D., Ph.D. is a serial entrepreneur and healthcare executive. Dr. Liia is the Founder and CEO EpiLynx, Gluten-Free Skin Care and Cosmetics Brand. She comes with vast experience in Global Medical Affairs, Global Ethics and Compliance, Clinical Research, and Global Publications. Dr. Liia drove the development of the strategic vision and mission for the national field-based medical program, the development of publication plans, the planning and management of medical activities at scientific congresses, the development of programs resources for Regional Medical Liaisons, and Biopharmaceutical Representatives. Haute Beauty expert Dr. Liia discusses the makeup and skincare line she designed for the most sensitive skins. 

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When you have a gluten allergy and psoriasis, you become resigned to the fact that most skincare and makeup are not made with you in mind. After struggling for years to find something that wouldn’t cause my allergies or skin issues to flare up, I decided to take matters into my own hands and create the product I believed was missing from the market.

The birth of EpiLynx

EpiLynx was born from scratch. After working in corporate healthcare for many years, I decided that the age of 40 was my time to take a leap of faith. I wanted to solve an issue that had been one I had grappled with and one I know millions of others struggled with as well.  That is when EpiLynx was created to redefine skincare, empowering people to feel safe using skincare products and makeup without fear of irritation.

If you have been paying attention to the beauty industry in the last five to ten years, you notice a heavy emphasis on the word “clean”. It was our belief at EpiLynx that declaring a product “clean” did not necessarily mean it was safe or functional for people with specific allergies or skin sensitivities. It is a misnomer in many instances.

Our core values

By laser-focusing our mission on serving the customers who needed us the most is what I believe has made us successful. We work every day with a passion and desire to make a difference, improving the lives of those with chronic illnesses.

A “medically clean” formula

Our line of beauty and skincare products is what we consider “medically clean”. Our “clean” is free of the most common allergens – nuts, gluten, dairy, shellfish, parabens, and phthalates.

EpiLynx dedicates itself to using natural, organic ingredients sourced from eco-friendly farms and reputable suppliers. I have some elements that are absolute “go-to” inclusions when we are developing products.

Niacinamide is genuinely a wonder ingredient, supporting the outer layer of skin and improving resiliency and texture. Hyaluronic acid is a “must-have”. When applied to the skin’s surface, hyaluronic acid serums can reduce wrinkles, redness, and dermatitis. We also incorporate Ayurvedic extracts, such as Ashwagandha, which can boost collagen production in the skin.

Changing with the times

We strive to bring innovation where it’s needed most. We even were able to pivot to making allergen and gluten-free hand sanitizers for a time during the pandemic.

At EpiLynx, we like to think we bring the beauty industry to a different standard. It’s vital that when there is a medical need presented, that those who have the know-how and experience to meet that need step forward. With EpiLynx, people who have experienced the frustration of not being able to wear makeup or use skin products due to their allergies or sensitivities can now have that. That population is being heard and their need is being met.

The beauty industry and the health industry can work in tandem. I think a lot of beauty comes when we consider health. Beauty is not just on the inside or outside. It’s very often “between our ears”, in our mental state and health. If you take care of yourself, you will feel more beautiful.

EpiLynx seeks to help people not only practice safe, truly “clean” self-care but feel beautiful as well.

Recommended products:

The Sunrise Bundle: This is true moisture and nourishment for all skin types.

Sheer Restoring Hydration Face, Neck, and Décolleté Cream SPF 30: This is an excellent moisturizer with SPF 30 using zinc oxide. Due to the recent recall of sunscreens, I always lean towards using mineral sunscreens (i.e. natural) with zinc oxide.

Long-Lasting Precision Liquid Eyeliner: This is a “go-to” product for me every day. It is long-lasting, never smudges, and makes the eyes pop!