How Dr. Mom is changing the world of skincare
Local family physician, Dr. Stephanie Liu, affectionately known as “Dr. Mom,” is transforming the way we approach skincare. With a passion for both science based practices as well as natural alternatives, Dr. Liu has carved a unique path in the world of health and wellness. Her career and popular blog Life Of Dr. Mom led her to become a renowned health expert through features with Global Television, CBC, the National Post, and Today’s Parent.
Dr. Liu’s academic journey took her from Edmonton to Columbia University in New York, where she earned a Masters in Human Nutrition. “I’ve always been fascinated by the healing power of nature, especially when it’s backed by solid scientific evidence,” she shares. This blend of a medical practice and a holistic approach to health would eventually lead her to a groundbreaking discovery in the realm of skincare.
Her quest to find a better solution for eczema, a common but stubborn skin condition, was born out of personal and professional necessity. “As a family doctor in Alberta, I saw so many patients struggling with eczema. The only effective treatment was steroids, which many parents are hesitant to use on their children,” Dr. Liu recalls. Frustrated by the lack of safe, effective options, she set out to find an alternative. This journey led her to beta glucan, a type of fibre and the ingredient in oatmeal known for its soothing properties.
At the time, the University of Alberta had developed the technology to extract beta glucan for use as a fibre supplement. However, Dr. Liu remembered the ingredient from the labels of some of her skincare products, primarily the ones developed in Asia. “While oatmeal contains three to five per cent beta glucan, this technology allowed us to extract closer to 23 per cent.”
Dr. Liu began experimenting with beta glucan, extracting it and incorporating it into skincare products. Her first creation was a beta glucan bath treatment, designed to be added to water to soothe the entire body. “I wanted something that could provide relief during bath time, which is often a calming ritual for many families,” she explains. The response was overwhelmingly positive, with users praising the product’s ability to alleviate skin irritation without harsh chemicals or fragrances.
But Dr. Liu didn’t stop there. Listening to feedback from her growing community of followers on her blog, she realized that people needed a more convenient, targeted solution. This insight led to the creation of the beta cream, a thick, miracle cream that could be applied directly to problem areas. “Our beta cream is fragrance-free, safe for all ages, and recommended by both doctors and allergists,” she proudly notes. This product has quickly become a staple in many households, offering a gentle yet effective option for managing eczema and other skin irritations.
Dr. Liu’s dedication and her innovative spirit have not only earned her the trust of families, but also the respect of the medical community. Her company, ‘By Dr. Mom’, continues to explore new ways to harness the power of natural ingredients with scientific backing, providing safe and effective solutions for everyday health concerns.
In a world where quick fixes often come at the expense of long-term health, Dr. Liu stands as a beacon of thoughtful, evidence-based care with a natural approach. ‘By Dr. Mom’ products are created in Edmonton and available in 400 locations, including online through the company’s website, as well as London Drugs and Amazon.
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