Dr Raffaella Gregoris was a chemist when she realised that lots of cosmetics contain ineffective ingredients that are harmful to the skin, and decided that she wanted to change that. That’s why she created Bakel, developed to create a line of anti-ageing and skin boosting products with no useless substances and only active ingredients.
After 15 years of business Bakel can claim the distinction of having a list of ingredients (INCI) totally transparent, and can say proudly that there are only “100% active ingredients” in their products. We had a chat with Dr Raffaella to find out the secrets to beautiful skin and balancing business with real life!
‘Whether I have been in the lab working on new product formulas, conversing with buyers or networking at global conferences, when I get back home I turn 100% back into devoted mum and wife, and enjoy spending time with my family.’
What inspired you to start Bakel?
During my first few years of working in cosmetic laboratories, I was surprised to discover that the majority of claims linked to cosmetic products were only partially true and totally marketing driven. I had a sort of revelation: I decided that I wanted to formulate a range of anti-ageing skincare products which would only contain substances that can bring realistic, clinically proven benefits to the skin, chosen amongst the finest pharmaceutical-grade raw materials. That was the first time that the idea of Bakel sparked.
Do you have any words to live by?
I would say “100% transparency”. That is the basics of my skincare philosophy and my own way of living and being.
What does an average day look like for you?
I start my day by waking up my three children and walking our dog, Medo. Then I get ready for work and switch into the entrepreneur mode. Whether I have been in the lab working on new product formulas, conversing with buyers or networking at global conferences, when I get back home I turn 100% back into devoted mum and wife, and enjoy spending time with my family.
‘In the long run, cleansing the skin daily from all the makeup and pollution will definitely make a difference and will slow down the ageing process.’
Do you have any skincare tips for career girls this winter?
Especially for young women, the secret of an effective skincare is as simple as it sounds: a correct cleansing routine. In the long run, cleansing the skin daily from all the makeup and pollution will definitely make a difference and will slow down the ageing process. During the winter months, it’s important to keep you skin soothed and deeply hydrated, so make sure you have an effective serum and moisturiser for your skin. Use routinely morning and night for nourished and hydrated skin.
What career advice would you give to young girls today?
Work hard and work with passion. Believe in yourselves and always stay open-minded.
‘My insider beauty tip is called “Skin Fasting”: every time you are home (or anytime you can), try to stay completely makeup free…’
What was the most challenging part of your career and how did you overcome it?
I think the most challenging part of my career has been to find a good balance between being a mum and being an entrepreneur. It is hard to not let one aspect of my life take over, as I need to stay focused on everything equally and all at the same time. To overcome this, I take extra care and put a lot of effort in to stay self-aware to ensure I keep the balance, although this is challenging it is definitely worth it.
‘It is hard to not let one aspect of my life take over, as I need to stay focused on everything equally and all at the same time. To overcome this, I take extra care and put a lot of effort in to stay self-aware…’
Which products from Bakel would you recommend for the holiday season?
To surprise everyone with a naturally glowing look, I recommend using Bakel THIO-C (£118, Space NK), in the morning and at night, three days before a special event. For those who love to party until dawn, I recommend trying Bakel COOL EYES (£80, Space NK): in just a blink of an eye, dark circles and puffiness will vanish, giving immediate comfort, freshness and a rested appearance. Finally, for those who love the snow, Bakel NUTRIREMEDY (£98, Space NK) is the best: its precious and rich oils and butters protect the skin from the cold and provide a long-lasting comfort.
Do you have any insider beauty tips for our readers?
My insider beauty tip is called “Skin Fasting”: every time you are home (or anytime you can), try to stay completely makeup free. This will help the skin recover and will promote the renewal of the natural moisturising factor and protective skin barrier.