With the launch of Empowered in My Own Skin campaign celebrating individuality and natural beauty, we support every stage of the skin story with personalised skincare solutions. Over 70 years of expertise, we continue to champion a personalised approach that enhances skin health, radiance, and confidence.
At the centre of this campaign is Cara Mcilroy; model, entrepreneur, and mother of three, is one of the faces of this campaign. Her story of balance, resilience, and pro-ageing authenticity reflects the spirit of embracing oneself fully. From her holistic approach to wellness and skincare to gracefully navigating motherhood and career, Cara shares insights, habits, and reflections that inspire us all to nurture our skin evolution with confidence and pride.
If I said the sentence “Empowered in My Own Skin” what does it mean to you?
It means being unapologetically myself — comfortable with my story, my body, my age, and all the experiences that have shaped me. It’s the freedom to feel happy in my own skin.
How does someone show up like that?
By owning who they are without comparison. It’s not about perfection, but about presence — walking into a room with authenticity, kindness, and confidence.
Do you see yourself as part of the “Pro-Ageing” movement? What does it mean to you?
Yes, absolutely. To me, pro-ageing is about celebrating the wisdom, beauty, and resilience that comes with time, rather than trying to erase it. Ageing is a privilege that so many don’t have. I want to be a role model for my girls that I’m proud of. But don’t get me wrong, it feels nice to look good too. It’s just learning to love yourself that’s important, and to embrace the love that time brings.
Does that inform the way you’d want a pro-ageing skincare brand to speak to women?
Definitely. I’d want the language to feel supportive, celebratory & no fear-based marketing. Speak to women like allies, not like we’re problems to be fixed.
Can you please tell us about your top three habits to maintain health and success as you navigate this?
- Prioritising nourishing food and hydration (green juices, matcha, wholefoods).
- Daily movement, even if it’s just walking in nature, I love reformer Pilates. I think when you’re in your 40’s it’s important to be strong.
- Do things you love and surround yourself with people you love as much as possible.
Is there something about you, physical or non-physical, that you’ve struggled with over your lifetime?
I’ve struggled at times with self-doubt and perfectionism. It can feel like a silent battle, especially when balancing motherhood, work, and personal growth. I struggled with a lot of things from my childhood but I think everyone does it in their own way.
What advice would you give to people to overcome this and step into your power around this?
Deal with it. Holding everything in me brings more suffering. Release is so important.
How have you celebrated your own skin’s story?
By treating it with kindness — nourishing from the inside out, choosing skincare that supports rather than strips, and embracing the lines, freckles, and changes as part of my journey.
Do you ever wake up and feel overwhelmed?
Of course. I’m a mum of three, an entrepreneur — overwhelm visits often. But I’ve learned to pause, breathe, and remind myself to tackle one thing at a time. Some days are harder than others to do this.
What are your top three tips for maintaining overall health and skin health during menopause?
- Eat nutrient-rich, whole foods that support hormonal balance.
- Laugh. Laughing fixes everything
- Water
- Practice stress management, for me that’s Pilates, nature, being with people I love ( sometimes taking a break from people I love haha) because stress shows up directly on your skin.
Putting yourself out there as an expert — natural or learned?
It’s been learned. I’m naturally quite private, but I’ve realised that sharing my story helps others, and that makes the vulnerability worth it.
Have you ever looked at your story and realised there was something holding you back?
Yes — fear of not being “enough and not loved”. Once I stop letting that script run my life, everything opens up.
How do you embody your story at this time, enough to get other people on your journey?
By leading with honesty and consistency. I don’t try to present a perfect version — I share the messy parts too, and that’s what creates connection.
How has your holistic wellness journey shaped the way you think about your skin story?
I see my skin as a reflection of my whole lifestyle — food, stress, sleep, mindset. It’s not just topical, it’s the sum of all the choices I make. Might be some genetics there too, thanks Mum.
How could “In My Own Skin” celebrate the synergy between healthy eating, juicing, and skin health?
By showing that beauty is deeply connected to nourishment. Wholefoods aren’t just trendy — they provide the vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that our bodies need to thrive. When we thrive we look and feel better. It’s pretty basic stuff.
Do you ever feel overwhelmed at what needs to be done? What are your three habits in managing yourself?
Yes. Everyday.
- Writing lists and breaking them into small parts.
- Protecting my energy — saying no when it’s needed.
- Crying, then moving on haha
What is the one thing you would do right now if you had the courage to really feel Empowered in your Own Skin?
I can’t tell you all my secrets… I’d get another dog. It might sound simple, but for me it represents choosing joy, companionship, and a lifestyle I want — not one that’s dictated by fear of extra responsibility or what people think. That’s empowerment too.
Cara McIlroy’s insights remind us that being Empowered in My Own Skin isn’t about perfection — it’s about authenticity, self-care, and embracing the journey of our own stories. From nourishing her body and prioritising movement, to celebrating the changes in her skin and leading with honesty, Cara shows how confidence and pro-ageing beauty come from within. Her story is an invitation to approach skincare and life with intention, kindness, and joy, encouraging each of us to honour our unique skin and the experiences that have shaped us. Follow Cara’s journey on Instagram @caragmcilroy for more inspiration on embracing beauty, confidence, and authenticity at every stage of life.