My Curology journey: an inside look
What it’s like to work for us while being on your own skincare journey
Curology is certified as a Great Place to Work for lots of reasons. Our favorite perk? A lifetime Curology membership that includes our flagship Custom Formula. We sat down with our senior manager of influencer marketing, Lexie Barnhorn, to get the real insider’s scoop on what it’s like to work for a skincare company while having acne yourself.
Can you tell us a little bit about where you’re from and your educational background?
I am originally from a small town in southern Ohio. I graduated from Miami University with a degree in strategic communication and interactive media studies.
How did you end up working for Curology?
During my junior year, I was sitting in a class on social media marketing when they mentioned a study abroad program that allowed you to spend an entire semester in San Francisco, working an internship for a tech startup. Of course, I took the real-world learning experience in San Francisco over spending another semester in Ohio in a heartbeat. That led me to Curology.
I started out as a social media intern in the fall of 2017 and transitioned to full-time in 2018. Now I’m a senior manager who gets to talk with influencers who use the product and see their amazing transformations. It’s really rewarding that part of what I do makes people feel more confident about themselves.
Why Curology?
Out of all the companies I could have wound up working for, I really resonated with the fact that Curology was making the experience of loving your skin easier and more accessible. It hits close to home because I have struggled with acne my entire life.
What has your skincare journey been like so far?
I started getting acne in 7th grade. I went to multiple dermatologists and tried oral medications, prescription topicals, over-the-counter recommendations — the list goes on. I know everyone says this, but I can truthfully say that it wasn’t until my Curology formula that I found a skincare product that actually worked for me.
What does the rest of your skincare routine like?
Besides Curology, I now get facials monthly. I like to give my skin the extra care it needs, and I always feel like my best self after.
In general, I’ve found that self-care not only improves my skin but improves my overall well-being and stress levels. That’s a benefit in and of itself, but it probably leads to fewer breakouts too!
What’s it like to work for a skincare company while learning to love your skin?
When I first started, I was scared that I would need to have perfect skin to reflect our product. Thankfully, that hasn’t been the case, and I’ve learned to love my skin and love the process! I no longer feel like getting a breakout is the worst thing in the world because I have an entire support system that’s there to help when needed.
It’s a judgment-free zone for sure. My coworkers and I constantly share skincare recommendations and help each other out. My team has a shared Google doc with all of our skincare routines so we can get tips and tricks from each other.
If you could give one piece of advice to someone just starting their skincare journey, what would it be?
First of all: don’t give up! Consistency is key — thankfully, working at Curology has made me stick with my Curology routine, and it has paid off.
Secondly, use skincare as self-care! It really does make a difference and gets you excited to do your routine every night and morning.
Last but not least, WEAR SUNSCREEN. I’m trying to look 30 when I’m 50, and this is hopefully the best start.
This interview was edited for length and clarity.
Want to get on Lexie’s level? We’re always hiring, and you can always start your free trial of Curology for just $4.95 to cover the cost of shipping + handling.
