Onyeka Michael-Ugwu has always believed skincare isn’t just about beauty but about empowerment, confidence, and providing real solutions for real people, irrespective of skin colour. As the Founder of Hello Perfect, a leading skincare clinic in Nigeria, she has spent years bringing this belief to life by redefining industry standards and ensuring that people of colour have access to tailored treatments that truly work.
Her journey hasn’t been without challenges. Building a business in an industry that often overlooks the unique needs of darker skin tones requires vision, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to innovation. Now, with the launch of In.skin science, her latest skincare line backed by over a decade of expertise, Onyeka Michael-Ugwu is taking her impact even further, setting new standards for inclusive skincare in Nigeria and beyond.
“You don’t have to be the loudest in the room to make an impact, sometimes your quiet determination and consistency are what truly set you apart.”
Onyeka Michael-Ugwu, Founder, Hello Perfect.
In this exclusive interview with Glazia Magazine, she shares her entrepreneurial journey, the importance of representation in beauty and wellness, and what it truly means to accelerate action for gender equality.
More than Skin Deep with Onyeka Michael-Ugwu
Glazia: Tell us briefly about your journey to becoming the woman you are today. How did you get here? What obstacles did you face, and how did you overcome them?
Onyeka Michael-Ugwu: My journey has been about building something that matters. I saw the need for a space where people could truly feel seen, understood, and empowered in their skin. That’s why I founded Hello Perfect, a skincare clinic dedicated to redefining skincare for Black and Brown people.
It wasn’t always easy. A lot of sacrifices were made, and some challenges tested my resolve. But I’ve always believed that when you lead with purpose and passion, you can turn any challenge into an opportunity. I’ve poured my heart into this industry, investing in research, people, and solutions that truly make a difference. It’s a journey rooted in resilience, vision, and a deep commitment to excellence.
Glazia: How are you driving innovation and change in your field or community? What impact do you hope to achieve?
O.M: At Hello Perfect, our in-clinic treatments have redefined how skincare is approached, delivering real, life-changing results for our clients. We’ve built a reputation for addressing stubborn skin concerns; whether it’s acne, hyperpigmentation, or sensitivity, with a level of care and expertise that sets us apart. After years of seeing the power of targeted treatments firsthand, we are taking things a step further by developing the In.skin science line.
This line is more than just skincare; it results from over a decade of experience, innovation, and an unyielding commitment to excellence. We’ve created something revolutionary, designed specifically for the unique needs of Black and Brown skin. It’s about empowering people to take control of their skin journey, providing solutions that work, and setting a new standard for skincare in Nigeria and beyond.
Glazia: The 2025 International Women’s Day theme is “Accelerate Action.” What does this mean to you, and how are you accelerating action towards gender equality in your own life and work?
O.M: To me, “Accelerate Action” is about showing up consistently and making room for other women to rise. It’s about creating opportunities where there were none and using my platform to amplify women’s voices who deserve to be heard. At Hello Perfect, we prioritise hiring, mentoring, and championing women, whether it’s through leadership roles, skills development, or simply creating a supportive environment where they can thrive.
Glazia: What advice would you give to young women looking to make an impact in their careers and communities, especially in fields traditionally dominated by men?
O.M: My advice would be to trust the power of your intuition and never lose sight of your “why.” You don’t have to be the loudest in the room to make an impact, sometimes your quiet determination and consistency are what truly set you apart. Surround yourself with people who inspire you, stay open to learning, and know that your feminine energy is a strength, not a weakness.
Glazia: What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned in your life and career?
O.M: The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that success is not about perfection; it’s about progress. It’s about showing up, being authentic, and choosing to keep going even when things get tough. And above all, it’s about staying connected to the people you serve and the impact you want to make.
Glazia: Who are the women who inspire you, and why?
O.M: I’m inspired by the women who find beauty in resilience, like my mother, who taught me that strength can be gentle and love can be fierce. I’m inspired by women who dare to dream and make those dreams a reality and every woman who chooses to rise, no matter how many times she’s been knocked down.
Rapid-Fire Sentence Finishers:
If I could have any superpower, it would be… the ability to heal hearts.
The worst advice I ever received was… to dim my light to make others comfortable.
The most important thing I’ve learned about leadership is… that it’s rooted in service.
The best thing about being a woman is… our capacity to nurture, create, and inspire.
The emoji that best describes me is… *shooting star emoji* (because I believe in spreading light and possibility wherever I go).