shannon chats with carla pooran of skinrenewal clinic

How Carla Pooran Built SkinRenewal Clinic, and Why Skin Confidence Matters More Than Ever

Most women don’t think about their skin until something feels off. Until what used to work suddenly doesn’t. Until confidence quietly wobbles.

For Colchester-based skin specialist Carla Pooran, that experience is personal, and it’s what shaped her career. Shannon Kate Murray recently caught up with Carla to chat about her business journey.

Let’s start at the beginning. How did your own experience with skin shape the path you took?

Carla: “As someone who struggled with acne throughout my teenage years and into adulthood, I know firsthand how deeply skin can affect confidence. This isn’t just my work - it’s my passion, my purpose, and something I truly understand.”

You’ve worked in the beauty and aesthetics industry for over 20 years. What shaped your approach?

Carla: “I’ve worked in the industry for over 20 years and have had invaluable hands-on experience with all skin conditions. I’ve worked alongside some of the top doctors and dermatologists in London’s Harley Street and Essex, and I’ve always prided myself on staying up to date in an ever-growing industry.”

What do you wish women understood sooner about their skin?

Carla: “That no two skins are the same. What works brilliantly for one person can make someone else’s skin worse. Following trends or other people’s routines doesn’t necessarily mean it’s right for you. Be patient, be consistent, and it will pay off.”

What led you to open SkinRenewal Clinic in Colchester?

Carla: “After years of building a client base and training other professionals - including doctors, nurses and therapists - I followed my lifelong dream and launched SkinRenewal Clinic.

I wanted to create a private, boutique clinic where I could deliver advanced treatments, personalised one-to-one care, and truly expert advice. I also wanted flexibility for my family, and a business built on integrity and results.”

SkinRenewal launched during the pandemic. How did that shape the business?

Carla: “When the pandemic disrupted my plans, I pivoted quickly. I began offering virtual skincare consultations and partnered with a digital platform so I could support clients beyond the clinic.

People didn’t just want products - they wanted the right advice.”

You’re known for investing in advanced technology. Why is that important to you?

Carla: “I’ve always reinvested back into the business to make sure my clients receive the best possible treatments. I don’t follow trends - I research thoroughly and only introduce devices and skincare that are safe, clinically backed, and results-driven.”

In recent years, your work has focused more on skin changes in midlife. What were you noticing?

Carla: “Many of my clients - especially those over 40 - were experiencing hormonal changes that affected their skin. Dryness one day, breakouts the next, more inflammation overall. It’s incredibly common, but not always talked about.”

Is that what led to creating 40+ Skin Bootcamp?

Carla: “Yes. I realised so many people felt overwhelmed by information online and didn’t know what they should or shouldn’t be doing for their skin at this stage of life.

40+ Skin Bootcamp is a guided six-week online programme I created to help people understand what’s happening to their skin as hormones change, and how to support it properly - without feeling confused or pressured.

Not everyone can attend a clinic regularly, so I wanted to educate and support people from the comfort of their own home - with a guided programme led by real expertise, not influencers.”

Looking back, what has running your own business taught you?

Carla: “That you need to follow your ideas and be willing to take risks - but stay grounded. Don’t compare yourself to others, and make time for yourself to avoid burnout. You’ll be better for it.”

How has your definition of success changed over time?

Carla: “With age, your definition changes. I feel successful when my clients are happy and see results - that brings me joy.

I care deeply about what I do. I want to make a difference, not build a chain of clinics.”

I want women and men to feel more confident in their skin, and having two businesses allows me to bridge a gap I’ve seen in this industry.”

And finally, what do you hope readers take from your journey?

Carla: “I hope it reassures people that help is out there. Great skin doesn’t have to be complicated or overwhelming. No two skins are the same - and taking advice from professionals really matters.”

About the interviewer

Shannon Kate Murray is the founder & editor of High Flying Design, an online women’s business and lifestyle magazine sharing the real stories of female founders across the UK. Alongside running the magazine, she works as a Digital Brand Consultant and Squarespace Web Designer, supporting small businesses across Essex and beyond.