Starface Co-Founder Julie Schott Shares the Story Behind Her Acne-Positive Brand
December 18, 2019
Acne is in the eye of the beholder — and Julie Schott, co-founder of skin-care start-up Starface proves this and more with Hydro-Stars, her pro-pimple solution to healing, addressing and changing the conversation around acne. Ahead, we spoke with Schott about the idea behind Starface, her relationship with acne and her advice for aspiring beauty entrepreneurs.
Tell us a little bit about your editorial background in beauty and how you got started in the industry?
I studied Creative Writing at Pratt Institute in Brooklyn with the intention of writing for magazines, but school never came easily. I was eager to work. The job and internship website Ed2010 was a huge resource for me, and my only access to magazine jobs as a student with no connections.
What was the concept behind the creation of Starface? Why acne patches, and why stars?
Starface started with my personal acne experience. It began in my early 20s as a beauty editor. despite having access to the best treatments and dermatologists, I was still breaking out like crazy, which made me feel super self-conscious. Starface began with the idea of changing the conversation around acne, and helping the 95 percent of people who experience breakouts feel more comfortable in their skin. Starface is equal parts acne treatment and emotional support.
Take us through the process of creating acne patches and the technology behind them. What does this look like? What acne-fighting ingredients did you choose for Starface, and why?
We went through dozens of manufacturers and ultimately landed with a medical tech company. Hydro-Stars are made with hydrocolloid — an ingredient used for wound care that’s proven to absorb fluid, reduce redness and prevent scarring.
What does a typical day look like for you?
Most of my day is spent on phone calls and on Slack. Our Starface team lives between four different cities, so most of our communication is digital.
What does your skin-care routine look like, and what is your skin like?
I’ve paired it down to five pieces: gel cleanser, vitamin C serum, sunscreen, retinol and Hydro-Stars. My skin is reactive and easily irritated, so I like to keep it simple.
What's your favorite way to wear Starface patches? (Overnight, during the day?)
I wear Hydro-Stars to sleep and change them out for fresh ones in the morning to protect healing pimples from sun exposure.
How has working on Starface impacted your life, and what moment in your career are you most proud of so far?
My screentime has skyrocketed. A new business requires 24-hour supervision. The comment we get the most is, “I’m excited for my next breakout,” and that says it all.
If you weren't in beauty, what would you be doing?
I was absolutely not born with this talent, but if I could transfer whatever writing skills I have to songwriting, I’d make that exchange.
What's your favorite skin-care ingredient of the moment?
Hydrocolloid (which you’ll find in our Hydro-Stars) because it’s safe, effective, gentle and suitable for all skin types.
What's your advice for an aspiring beauty entrepreneur?
Pay it forward. I’ve been lucky to have support and guidance from some amazing entrepreneurs along the way.
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