In Nigeria, medical aesthetics has revolutionised the skincare sector and made way for cutting-edge procedures that go beyond conventional beauty care. The field has expanded since its beginning, providing answers to skin issues that were previously challenging to address locally. By lowering the cost of these procedures, industry pioneers have altered how consumers view self-care and beauty. In addition to improving looks, medical aesthetics now seeks to increase self-esteem and enhance lives. The industry has shaped a new era in beauty, where science and care meet with each new clinic and cutting-edge treatment.

Onyeka Michael Ugwu, a certified medical esthetician and senior laser technician with more than seven years of expertise, is one of the key figures in this movement. In 2019, Onyeka returned to Nigeria after training and working in America to establish Hello Perfect, a skin aesthetics and laser clinic that has revolutionised skincare procedures in the country. Her brand blends top-notch methods with a sincere desire to make people feel good about their skin. She has created an environment through Hello Perfect where people can confidently confront their skin issues and change the way they see themselves and their skin.

In this interview with THEWILL DOWNTOWN’s Dorcas Akintoye, Onyeka Michael Ugwu discusses her medical aesthetics journey, Hello Perfect’s influence, and her goal to make advanced skincare affordable for all. She also discusses the development of the skin care sector in Nigeria, the importance of self-assurance, and why her job is about more than just beauty but transforming lives.

What inspired you to become a medical aesthetician, and how has your journey been so far?

My journey into medical aesthetics was driven by a passion to empower individuals through skincare and enhance confidence from within. I’ve always been interested in beauty and skin health, and becoming a medical aesthetic practitioner allowed me to merge science and beauty. The journey has been remarkable, filled with growth, continuous learning, and the fulfilment of making a tangible impact on people’s lives. With Hello Perfect, I’ve touched lives in Nigeria and raised awareness about skin health in ways I could never have imagined.

Can you tell us about a defining moment in your career that made you realise the impact of your work?

A defining moment was when we began our awareness campaign for PCOS. Seeing women respond with relief, feeling understood and supported, truly highlighted the emotional and physical impact we can have. That initiative showed me the power of our platform and motivated me to keep pushing for more awareness and innovation in the field.

What is the most rewarding part of your job as a Senior Laser Technician and Medical Aesthetician?

The most rewarding part is seeing the transformation in clients’ confidence. Watching clients walk out of Hello Perfect feeling rejuvenated and empowered is incredibly fulfilling. There’s nothing like knowing that your work has helped someone feel more comfortable in their skin and more confident in themselves.

How do you stay updated on the latest trends and innovations in the skincare and aesthetic industry?

I make it a point to attend international conferences, engage with industry publications, and connect with other professionals to stay informed. Also, by frequently educating my team, I ensure Hello Perfect is at the forefront of the latest techniques and technologies.

What challenges have you faced in your career, and how did you overcome them?

Navigating the aesthetics industry in Nigeria presented initial challenges, especially around building awareness and trust. I overcame these challenges by staying consistent, offering excellent service, and educating clients. Recently, recovering from social media issues, including disabled accounts, was a challenge as well. It’s a reminder to continually adapt and remain focused on our mission.

What motivated you to return to Nigeria and establish Hello Perfect?

Returning to Nigeria was fueled by the desire to make advanced skincare accessible in my home country. I wanted Nigerians to benefit from top-notch aesthetics care without having to travel abroad. The vision was to build a homegrown brand that could compete globally while catering to local skin care needs and concerns.

What sets Hello Perfect apart from other skin aesthetics and laser clinics in Nigeria?

Hello Perfect is unique because of our personalised approach. We don’t just provide treatments; we educate our clients and empower them with knowledge about their skin. Our commitment to community outreach, such as PCOS awareness, also underscores our focus on holistic wellness rather than just aesthetics.

In your opinion, what are the most significant trends and advancements in the skincare industry today?

Right now, there’s a big push towards technology-driven, minimally invasive treatments, as well as a focus on personalised, results-based skincare routines. The industry is also increasingly emphasising inclusivity, ensuring treatments are suitable for all skin types and tones, which is particularly important in a diverse country like Nigeria.

What common skincare myths do you encounter, and how do you debunk them?

One common myth is that people with oily skin don’t need moisturiser. I educate clients that even oily skin requires hydration, and neglecting it can lead to even more oil production as the skin compensates for dryness. I also debunk the idea that “natural” always means safe—some natural ingredients can be harmful or irritating to the skin.

How important is it for people to seek professional skincare treatments versus over-the-counter solutions?

Professional treatments are crucial because they’re tailored to individual skin needs and backed by medical-grade products. Over-the-counter solutions often lack the potency and customisation needed for specific skin concerns. A professional can assess and treat underlying issues, making it more effective than self-treatment.

What role does technology play in modern skincare treatments, and how does Hello Perfect incorporate it?

Technology is at the core of modern aesthetics, from laser treatments to microdermabrasion. At Hello Perfect, we incorporate the latest technologies to offer safe, efficient treatments that deliver visible results. Our investment in advanced equipment allows us to provide world-class care here in Nigeria.

What advice would you give someone considering a career in medical aesthetics or laser therapy?

I would advise them to focus on continuous learning and truly care about the impact they’re making. The industry is evolving quickly, so staying updated is essential. Also, a genuine passion for helping others achieve confidence in their skin is a must.

How do you balance your professional life with your interests, like travelling and spending time with family?

Balancing work and family is a priority for me. I structure my time to ensure that I’m present for my family, especially my sons. Additionally, I cherish moments of travel, which give me a chance to relax and recharge. It’s all about setting boundaries and making intentional time for each area of my life.

What are the most important values that guide your decisions, both personally and professionally?

Integrity, compassion, and resilience are my guiding values. Whether in my personal life or at Hello Perfect, I prioritise staying true to my values, genuinely caring for people, and pushing through challenges with grace.

If you could offer one piece of advice to anyone looking to build their self-esteem through skincare or beauty treatments, what would it be?

I would advise them to start by understanding and embracing their unique skin journey. Beauty treatments can be powerful, but self-confidence begins with self-acceptance. Skincare should enhance, not define, one’s self-esteem.

What motivated you to open two more Hello Perfect branches, one in Abuja and the other in Port Harcourt?

The demand and feedback from clients motivated me to expand. I wanted to reach more people and provide accessible, quality skincare across Nigeria. Expanding to Abuja and Port Harcourt allows Hello Perfect to touch more lives and further our mission of empowerment through skincare.

 

Dorcas Akintoye
+ posts

Dorcas Akintoye is a versatile writer with a passion for beauty, fashion, relationships, and culinary delight. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, she adds a touch of elegance to every topic she explores. She is a writer at THEWILL DOWNTOWN.