StyleNest talk to MD of Racinne UK, Marcyanna Legan to find out the science behind Korea’s leading skincare brand, Racinne. We chat to Marcyanna about beauty regimes, the stem cell buzzword and breakout tips for all your SS14 skincare needs.

Formulated using innovative biotechnology with the regenerative powers of plants, this pioneering skincare brand uses active ingredients for leading skincare results.    

You discovered Racinne during a trip to Asia in 2010, what was it that stood out about the brand that made you want to bring it to the UK?

Back then I was already aware of the next big thing coming which was stem cell technology, but what was interesting was that Racinne was all about stem cell extract which is the next level of advanced technology. I also quickly became aware of the flawless skin women in the Far East pride themselves on as well as how advanced the Korean technology is. I knew instantly it was a great opportunity and I think it was mainly my curiosity that led me to take on this project and bring Racinne to the UK. Having suffered skincare problems myself in the past I was always looking for that perfect product. You can look forever, but once you find it you think ‘I must share this with others’.

Racinne is formulated in Korea, for our readers who aren’t clued up on the science behind the brand; can you share a little insight?

Racinne Laboratory spent 7 years on advanced biotechnological research focused on plant stem cell extracts. It is purely a synergy between nature and technology. This is based on three well-known plants: Grape for hydration, Korean Ginseng for anti-ageing and Snow Lotus Flower for brightening. We created the ranges with various products in them to introduce the Asian way of looking after your complexion. Our anti ageing range (Youth Power) uses the innovative technology of a unique neo-endorphin SHDP-9. Imagine your skin sees every wrinkle as a wound; Racinne with SHDP-9 encourages skin via receptors in your brain to start the healing process. Our clinical trials brought impressive results.

How do the advancements in beauty compare in Asia to those in Europe?

From my experience Asia in general is a very demanding market, the consumers expect excellent results and extraordinary products. This is why most leading and advanced technologies do come from Asia; and why Korean skincare has always been perceived as the leader in the market. The amount of effort, funding and high-end facilities give brands such as Racinne new ground to explore and deliver the latest in excellence. Asia is also all about perfection and all about the future. There is no turning back – you must think forward and go forward as the market changes fast. 

Stem cell is one of the latest beauty buzzwords, what skincare developments do you think the next year will see?

I think stem cell and plant stem cell extracts will still be on top of the list for a while as it is something that does bring a whole new outlook on skincare. It shows that flawless skin is achievable, introducing Racinne products and lets you capture your youth for longer without any damage. The benefits of stem cell extract technology are extraordinary, from anti-ageing to brightening; it’s such an exciting time for the beauty industry.

Can you tell our readers about any emerging beauty and skincare trends which they should keep an eye out for?

There is a strong trend going towards merging make-up with skincare, and I am not talking about BB or CC creams but a whole new chapter. It is fascinating to know what is coming our way in the forthcoming future.

As the MD of Racinne UK, your role must be highly pressured and stressful, what do you do to kickback and relax?

If I need to switch off I take kickboxing lessons with my favourite instructor Denise Bailey from Xen-do. I have never realised what a wonderful way of ‘getting things out of the system’ it is until I tried. I do run or I simply switch off with a cup of Kusmi tea and just restart.

What are your top 3 Racinne products?

Our Aqua Blanc Brightening Masque is a miracle in a tube. You can see the results straight away, it is a fantastic quick fix with long lasting benefits. I am a big fan of skin hydration so for me our Hydra Serum and Hydra Illuminating Cream is perfect – the duo heals my skin, nourishes and hydrates, whilst making my skin look so smooth, I have actually stopped wearing bb creams.

Other than Racinne, what other brands and products do you swear by?

I have few ultimate favourites that I use regularly or always come back to – Chanel Sublimage Cleansing oil/gel is excellent and comes with a cloth that does the job of a gentle exfoliator; Eve Lom Cleanser of course; Bioderma Sensibio Solution Micellaire is a genius in a bottle and I love Dermalogica Daily Resurfacer, it comes in single sachets so it is super convenient in any situation. I am also a big fan of SPF 50+ (nothing less) and here, Shiseido comes in very handy. For the body I swear by Malin & Goetz – their products are perfection.

What is your everyday skincare regime?

I start the day with a glass of warm water with ginger and lemon. I am a big believer in what you put in shows throughout. This simple drink does miracles not only to your system but also to your skin. I cleanse with Ultimate Hydra Cleansing Foam, tone with Bioderma and Uriage Thermal water then follow with Racinne’s Hydra Serum and Hydra Cream, I always put on an SPF and I never forget about TLC around the eyes – here Racinne Eye Care is irreplaceable as I never have to worry about having my eyes irritated. In the evening I cleanse with Chanel Sublimage and I like a rich layer of Racinne Youth Power Neck Emulsion. 

For those who are new to the brand, what is the best way of introducing Racinnne into your skincare regime?

First thing I recommend is to actually get to know your skin. Our skin changes with seasons but also with whatever happens in our life – it reacts, so it is important to know your type skin then introducing the right treatment. I personally recommend starting with the serum/cream combination, as we have serums and creams for hydration, anti ageing and for pigmentation. I also invite women to get in touch with us via our website because everyone is different so it is worth to have a conversation over an email and make sure you are choosing the right product for yourself.

Skin can often breakout with the change of seasons. What advice would you give women who are experiencing a seasonal skin breakout?

Everyone is different but it is important to remember that our skin is a great communicator. It does not only show our story and journey via beautiful wrinkles we gain but it also lets us know of problems on this inside. It is always worth looking into your diet. Our body chemistry changes and if there is a problem we will know about it. What we put inside is equally important as the products we put on the outside. 

Your background is beauty and business management. What first interested you about the beauty world?

My first ever job was actually in beauty and what I enjoyed most was working with women. I have also worked in very masculine environments where I was the only female, so I know the difference. Beauty and also fashion are extremely fast paced, I love the fast ride and the fact that you always have to make sure you are one step ahead, keeping the momentum going and staying on top of the game.

Can you clue our readers in on any exciting projects Racinne might be working on?

If you have very sensitive skin we are the brand to watch.

With so many skincare brands to choose from and with a new one appearing almost everyday, what sets Racinne apart from the rest?

Plant stem cell extracts combined with our clinical trials data give the results women expect from a premium product. We deliver healthier, brighter and younger looking skin. There is no miracle product in our jar, just pure nature combined with high technology. Biochemistry is the future and Racinne is here so why not exploit it already? 

Do you have any beauty secrets you can share with our readers?

Be yourself. Trust your gut feeling. Accept who you are and the comfort of your own self will shine through. Be kind to yourself and eat well. These are just free basics before you purchase Racinne. Also the beauty basics; always take off your make up every night before bed and always use an SPF, whatever the weather. 

For more information visit www.racinne.co.uk