Gloss Angeles Podcast Episode Summary
Episode: Tower 28's Amy Liu on Caring for Sensitive Skin (Rewind Episode)
Release Date: January 11, 2025
Hosts: Kirbie Johnson and Sara Tan

Introduction: Addressing Current Events and Introducing Amy Liu

In this special rewind episode of Gloss Angeles, co-hosts Kirbie Johnson and Sara Tan pivot from their usual content to offer support amid the ongoing fires in Los Angeles. They express their commitment to helping those affected and announce the postponement of their upcoming guest episode to next Friday. Instead, they revisit a beloved 2021 episode featuring Amy Liu, the founder of Tower 28, a brand renowned for its sensitive skin-friendly products.

Kirbie Johnson [00:32]:
"Amy actually was one of the people displaced from the Pacific Palisades. And as much as we know right now, her house is still standing, which is nothing short of a miracle."

Guest Introduction: Amy Liu’s Journey and Admiration

Amy Liu joins the hosts, who enthusiastically commend her and her brand. They discuss their long-standing admiration and personal use of Tower 28 products, highlighting the brand's authenticity and effectiveness.

Sarah Tan [04:23]:
"Lastly, before we hop into the question, I have Tower everywher... We've talked about Tower 28 on the podcast before."

Amy Liu’s Professional Background and Founding Tower 28

Amy delves into her extensive experience in the beauty industry, having worked with giants like L'Oreal, Smashbox, Kate Somerville, and Josie Marin. Her passion for creating a brand that caters to sensitive skin led her to establish Tower 28. She emphasizes the importance of empowering individuals through beauty products that enhance confidence without causing irritation.

Amy Liu [10:22]:
"I really have always loved the way that women relate to beauty products and the confidence that they feel when they like the way that they look."

Challenges of Transitioning from Corporate to Entrepreneurship

Transitioning from corporate roles to founding her own brand, Amy faced unexpected challenges, including gaps in her operational knowledge and the realization of the beauty industry's self-regulation. She highlights the importance of community and humility in overcoming these hurdles.

Amy Liu [13:30]:
"I didn't realize how much I didn't know... It was really different to do a job than it is to be next to it."

Defining Clean Beauty and Commitment to Sensitive Skin

Amy defines clean beauty through adherence to reputable standards like Credo Beauty and the National Eczema Association's No-No list. Tower 28 distinguishes itself by prioritizing non-irritating, high-performance products that are both clean and effective for sensitive skin.

Amy Liu [22:42]:
"We are the only beauty brand that 100% adheres to the National Eczema Association's No-No list."

Spotlight on Hero Products: SOS Spray and Sunny Days Sunscreen

SOS Spray:
Amy shares the creation story of Tower 28's SOS spray, an antibacterial and anti-inflammatory product developed to aid eczema sufferers. Initially inspired by a friend's use of hypochlorous acid for surfing injuries, Amy collaborated with chemists to refine the formula, resulting in a versatile product praised for its healing properties.

Amy Liu [28:17]:
"It's antibacterial and it keeps things so clean in surgery... It's amazing because it works for a multitude of uses."

Sunny Days Sunscreen:
Introducing Sunny Days, a broad-spectrum SPF 30 tinted sunscreen, Amy discusses the meticulous development process over three years. Collaborating with diverse makeup artist Kiran Body, they ensured the formula offered excellent coverage without a white cast, catering to a wide range of skin tones.

Amy Liu [34:35]:
"We are launching it on October 12th in all stores, US with Sephora, Credo, Revolve, and at Kohl's, too."

Personal Insights: Managing Eczema and Wellness

Amy candidly discusses her lifelong battle with eczema, sharing her journey through various treatments and the emotional impact of the condition. She underscores the mission of Tower 28 to provide products that do not exacerbate skin issues, aiming to make beauty inclusive and accessible.

Amy Liu [43:11]:
"SOS really did help me. It helps my skin be a little more consistent and reliable."

Future Aspirations and Brand Vision

Concluding the episode, Amy expresses her aspirations for Tower 28 to be recognized by influential figures like Oprah Winfrey and emphasizes the brand's reliance on word-of-mouth and genuine product quality over institutional funding.

Amy Liu [46:25]:
"I'm really committed to the fact that our products just have to be good. We can't make mediocre products."

Conclusion: Launch Details and Final Thoughts

The episode wraps up with details about the Sunny Days launch date and availability, encouraging listeners to try Tower 28's innovative products designed for sensitive skin.

Amy Liu [49:46]:
"Tower28beauty is our handle for Instagram and for TikTok too."

This episode offers a deep dive into Amy Liu’s dedication to creating inclusive, effective beauty solutions for sensitive skin, highlighting Tower 28's commitment to quality, community, and continuous innovation in the beauty industry.