TikTok Star Emma Brooks and BYOMA Are on a Mission To Change the Acne Narrative

While our society has become more accepting of "flaws" and aesthetic imperfections, acne can still be difficult to deal with. TikToker Emma Brooks knows this first-hand as she began struggling with cystic acne at the age of 13 years old. Having to deal with unsolicited criticism undoubtedly had a negative impact on Brooks' self-esteem as the teen has been shamed online, and unbelievably, in business meetings. Anyone who has experienced issues with their skin knows all too well how frustrating comments like, "drink more water" can be.

In spite of the downsides that come with having a social media presence, the now 20-year-old uses her personal experiences to uplift and instill confidence in others. Although insecurities do not disappear overnight, Brooks attributes consistent self-care and connecting with others on a journey to embrace their natural skin as key.

She shares, "It makes me happy to know that I can help others be comfortable in their own skin and that we can relate to each other when we aren’t feeling great about ourselves." The blonde beauty has partnered with BYOMA as the science-driven skincare brand protects her skin's barrier, ensuring its health. BYOMA is dedicated to creating an inclusive and sustainably-minded community where "barriers aren't beneficial for anything other than your skin."

Continue scrolling to read Hypebae's interview with Emma Brooks below.

How has your struggle with cystic acne affected your self-confidence?

I’ve had cystic acne since I was a freshman in high school and it’s always played a toll on my personal self-confidence. I wanted to work in the entertainment industry, and I started to be involved in pageants at 14 years old, so the focus on my skin and appearance overall was emphasized a lot. I immediately got on Accutane and took it for most of high school. I recently started learning more about what my skin actually needs and how to take care of it properly. I definitely still get insecure. There are a lot of opinions about my face always being thrown at me unwarranted. Mainly it’s online, but it also happens in real life too. Especially on set. Naturally, I get insecure, but I do try to consistently work on it. The self-care I do is really a form of self-love. I show myself love and I care for myself, in turn, it makes me feel good on the inside. It’s definitely an interesting back and forth.

Could you discuss the positive impact of having a public platform to share your experience with acne?

Having a platform is such a blessing and the way it’s used is so important. I’m very grateful to have the chance to relate with others and feel with others the way I can. I started spending more time in my natural skin because I genuinely want to, but the way it has helped others feel okay in their natural skin also is really an amazing feeling. It makes me happy to know that I can help others be comfortable in their own skin and that we can relate to each other when we aren’t feeling great about ourselves. It’s an amazing dynamic and it’s brought me closer to my followers. I love that I can be myself with them. It’s really special to me.

How do unwarranted opinions about your physical appearance both on and offline influence your self-image and esteem? How did you deal with these comments and what would you say to others who find themselves in the midst of these kinds of interactions? How can they better set boundaries and stand up for themselves?

I mentioned earlier that there are many different suggestions from people online and offline. It does affect the way I feel about myself, which I think is a natural response. I have found that self-care has been the most helpful in making me feel better. I show love to myself and it makes me happy. It may not take it all away, but it does make me feel better. I also have a great support system that lets me talk it all out or just lets me cry (I do that a lot). To anyone who is also experiencing this kind of treatment, first of all I’m sorry. Second of all, figuring out what brings you joy within yourself is the most important. Being able to show yourself some kind of love in a healing and rewarding way is really cathartic and can help you find confidence again. It’s a hard journey but it’s possible, it just takes a lot of patience. However, boundaries with others who are making the comments are also important. On social media, I don’t even look at the comments anymore. In person, I will either tune out the conversation (especially in professional settings) or if I can, I will just mention that I do take care of myself and this is just my skin. Leave it at that. There is always a way to stand up for yourself. Even in small ways.

Can you tell us about your relationship with BYOMA and what drew you to the brand? What do you look for when considering skincare products?

Clean ingredients are very important to me. The affordability of BYOMA and the ingredients they used in their products drew me to the brand immediately. I have tried out their products and have found the ones that work best for my skin, and I love the routine I have now. There is no alcohol or fragrance in their products, they are also vegan and cruelty-free. The serum I love and use the most is their Clarifying Serum. Specifically, because of their Tri-Ceramide Complex that’s very resurfacing and rebuilds moisture. Along with the PHA (as a gentle exfoliant) and zinc – it’s my favorite. These ingredients are great but other ingredients to look for are niacinamide, BHA, AHA, green tea, retinol, hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, tea tree, peptides, aloe vera, glycerin…. I could go on, but these are just a few.

What other factors have positively affected your self-esteem and helped you along the way in your acne journey?

There are other things besides skincare that I like to do for myself. Sometimes it’s just putting on a cute outfit to go nowhere, or it’s cleaning up my home and making my environment peaceful. I have started to read again and watch movies, and those activities make me happy. Cooking good food for myself and others brings me a lot of joy. These little actions that either positively impact me or someone else always boosts my self-esteem and makes me feel good. Taking care of myself takes away thoughts about what my skin looks like and just makes me feel love. It’s of course not always like this, but it’s a good habit.

What advice would you give to your peers and younger followers struggling with self-acceptance?

A big piece of advice that I would give is patience is key. I definitely feel as though it’s one of the hardest parts of building self-esteem. That time and effort are so crucial and is definitely one of the hardest parts. In the end, though, it’s all worth it. You are able to watch yourself grow over time and I personally find that is very rewarding. You are still going to be insecure and you’re still going to mess up, but the time you put into yourself will pay off in the future.