YOUZU Founder Tina Dao Discusses the Brand’s Focused on Empowerment, as Well as Skincare
Tina Dao's YOUZU isn't just a skincare brand—it's also a platform for inspiration and empowerment.
From a young age, Tina considered her skincare routine an important part of her own self-care rituals, and she instilled those values into the creation of the YOUZU beand. In addition to being known for its tentpole products, the Daily Refresh Spray and Daily Refresh Serum, YOUZU also features a community forum where customers can connect, sharing and discovering their stories of wellness and empowerment. It's about connection, as well as confidence and healthy, glowing skin. We had the opportunity to chat with Tina to learn more about her history and the story behind YOUZU, which she shared with us in the interview below.
Name: Tina Dao
IG handles: @Daosister @youzuskin
Hometown: Stockton, California
Zodiac sign: Pisces
1. Tina has built two skincare brands before her 30s.
"Growing up in an Asian household, my mother instilled skincare habits in me at the age of 12. My love for skincare started as a form of self-care at a very young age. Throughout my life, skincare and self-care have helped keep me grounded during challenging times. I always knew I would end up in the beauty space, but when I decided to build another brand, it had to have real meaning and purpose behind it—hence, YOUZU."
-Tina Dao
(via YOUZU)
2. She says her own skin journey has been one of trial and error.
"As a teenager, I dealt with severe acne and tried countless products with little success. It wasn't until I started focusing on the root causes of my skin issues, such as diet, stress and lifestyle, that I saw real improvements. This holistic approach, combined with targeted skincare products, transformed my skin and inspired me to help others achieve the same results."
-Tina Dao
3. To Tina, the name YOUZU is very multi-faceted.
"It represents resilience and positivity, reminding us that everything begins with you."
-Tina Dao
Also read about: How Anna Dzhilavyan and Ksenia Zaytseva's Childhood Friendship Evolved Into Bur Bur Hair Care
4. YOUZU's goal extends beyond simply treating skin.
"YOUZU's mission is to inspire, connect and empower individuals through true and tested skincare products backed by science, merged with holistic wellness practices. What sets us apart is our commitment to building a supportive community that goes beyond skincare. We offer online and in-person storytelling discussions, interviews with influencers and healing professionals, panel discussions, workshops and an entrepreneurship mentorship program. Our focus on inclusivity and partnerships with aligned organizations also makes us unique."
-Tina Dao
(via YOUZU)
5. She says the most important skincare product in any arsenal is SPF.
"It protects against UV rays, preventing premature aging, hyperpigmentation and skin cancer. Daily SPF use is essential for maintaining healthy, youthful skin."
-Tina Dao
6. The best advice she ever received came from her mentor, who told her, "Stay true to your vision, but be flexible in your approach."
"This wisdom has guided me through the challenges of building YOUZU, reminding me to stay focused on my goals while adapting to changes and new opportunities."
-Tina Dao
Also read about: Saskia Teje Jenkins and Paris Nicholson Dish on the Creation of Womenswear Brand Amelie Teje
7. One habit that's helped her get to where she is today is her ability to stay positive and keep moving forward.
"Looking forward and having hope has gotten me through the worst times in my life. This mindset has been crucial in overcoming challenges and maintaining the resilience needed to build YOUZU."
-Tina Dao
8. Her No. 1 skincare tip is to always listen to your skin.
"It reflects your overall health and well-being. Pay attention to how it reacts to different products, foods and stressors, and adjust your skincare routine accordingly."
-Tina Dao
(via YOUZU)
Also read about: Jen DeAngelis Shares the Story Behind Her Viral Loungewear Brand, 1987label
9. The most rewarding aspect of her work has been seeing the positive impact YOUZU has on the brand's community.
"Hearing stories of how our products and holistic approach have transformed someone's life."
-Tina Dao
10. The one thing Tina wants everyone to know about her is that she's deeply commited to creating a brand that genuinely cares about its community.
"My journey with YOUZU is personal, and I am dedicated to ensuring that our products and initiatives truly make a difference in people's lives."
-Tina Dao
For more on the stories behind our favorite skincare brands, click HERE to read our interview with Lissy Kotter, founder of Lissy Skincare.