Celebrating Our Founder's 40th

16TH APRIL | 3 MINUTE READ

This week we are excited to celebrate Heidi Salfield the founder and director of Skin Divinity, as she turns 40! It's the perfect opportunity to reflect on her incredible journey—the vision behind her company and how her passion and drive continue to push boundaries. To mark the occasion, Heidi is sharing personal reflections on aging, her experiences as a mother and what keeps her motivated.

On Motherhood: The Heart Of It All

How would you describe the experience of being a mother?

Being a mother is like nothing else. It’s a love that comes with no boundaries, limits or rules. Every day brings a new lesson in patience and understanding. It’s the most amazing, fulfilling, terrifying, and challenging experience because there’s nothing more important in life than my kids and the example I set for them as their mother. It’s a constant juggling act, balancing the desire to give them everything and protect them from everything while also teaching them how to navigate challenging times on their own. Ultimately, it’s a sense of purpose and resilience like nothing else I’ve ever experienced and a love that’s purely unconditional, touching every layer of human emotion.

What was your reaction to seeing your children grow up?

Watching my kids grow up has honestly been the best part of my life. It’s wild how fast it all goes, but it’s also amazing to see who they’re becoming. When they were little, everything felt like a big deal like the first steps, the funny things they’d say, the way they’d curl up next to me without a second thought. And now they are becoming these amazing, thoughtful individuals with their own ideas and dreams. It’s a privilege to witness that growth and be part of it. I feel proud all the time not just for what they do but because of who they are. Watching them grow has been full of joy, surprises and so much love.

How has motherhood taught you about your own capabilities?

Motherhood cracked me open and rebuilt me. I’ve learned patience, resilience, fierce protectiveness  and a softness I never knew could coexist with strength. There have been days when I’ve doubted myself but even then I’ve discovered my ability to grow and try again. Ultimately, motherhood has taught me that being capable doesn’t mean being perfect. It means loving deeply, rising after you fall and giving your best even when it’s hard.

Entrepreneurship & Empowerment: Heidi’s Journey in the Skin Industry

What inspired you to start your own skincare clinic and pursue a career in the skin industry?

I’ve been passionate about skincare from a young age. To me, it’s not just about enhancing someone’s appearance, it's about the confidence that comes from feeling good in your own skin. In my teens and early 20s, I loved treating myself to facials and spa days. When I started my career as a dermal therapist in cosmetic clinics in Melbourne I became fascinated with advanced treatments like Thermage which is still my favorite. After moving back to my hometown of Byron Bay I decided to open my own clinic. I wanted to create a place that offered a customised, holistic approach to treating skin concerns while incorporating the latest results-driven technology along with that luxurious feeling I first fell in love with. That’s how Skin Divinity came to life.

How do you balance running two clinics, managing your skincare line, and raising your children?

Honestly, it can feel like a bit of a juggling act! Some days I crumble but others I feel so motivated and empowered by the business of it all. I’ve learned to focus on what’s most important in the moment and I’ve become somewhat ok with managing stress and recognising how unproductive it can be. I’m lucky to have a supportive partner & family, inspiring friends and an exceptional team at SD. I try to delegate when I can and at the end of the day I just do my best to give time and attention to both my family and my business.

What motivated you to push the boundaries and start your own cosmeceuticals range?

Being an Aries, pushing boundaries is in my nature, I’m always seeking new opportunities. Skincare though has always been a huge passion of mine and something I truly believe in. As I learned more about skin health, particularly barrier health I realised there’s so much more we can do in skincare. 

With years of experience working with brands like Osmosis and DMK  I gained a deep understanding of effective healing, calming and preventative ingredients as well as the importance of overall skin health. I also noticed a gap in the Australian market for products that combine high-performing ingredients with eco-conscious practices and that’s what motivated me to create Skin Divinity Cosmeceuticals.

I created this range with one goal in mind and that was to formulate products that truly deliver, without needing an extensive routine. All products contain multi-faceted ingredients that give your skin most of what it needs in just a few simple steps.

The Art of Aging Gracefully: Skin Health & Prevention

How does internal aging affect the skin, and what are the key factors contributing to the breakdown of collagen and elastin?

Internal aging is a natural process where the skin gradually loses its firmness and elasticity. As we age collagen and elastin production slows down causing the skin to lose its youthful texture. Key factors include a decrease in cell turnover, reduced hydration and hormonal changes which each contribute to the breakdown of these essential proteins.

Can you recommend preventative measures and treatments?

Preventative measures are key to maintaining healthy, youthful skin. Start by wearing sunscreen daily to protect against UV damage, staying hydrated and incorporating antioxidants into your skincare routine. Serums with high-performing ingredients such as retinoids which is the star ingredient in A Factor Moisturiser and Ace Oil along with professional skin therapies like skin needling or customised facials can help stimulate collagen production and address early signs of aging.

Personally, I love using and recommending tissue-stimulating, energy-based technologies such as lasers, radiofrequency (RF), and LED treatments to not only correct but also slow down and prevent the visible signs of aging.

What are some lifestyle habits or routines that can support collagen production and slow down the aging process?

Healthy habits like eating a nutrient-rich diet with plenty of antioxidants, omega-3s, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep and managing stress are key to supporting collagen production.  As well as drinking plenty of water, avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol and having a skincare routine with essential anti-aging ingredients like Vitamin A, Peptides, Growth Factors, B, C and efficient sun protection will support your skin’s regeneration cycle.

How do customised facials and targeted serums, like the Peptide Plumping Serum, contribute to anti-aging treatments?

Customised facials and targeted serums like the Peptide Plumping Serum are designed to nourish and repair the skin at a deeper level. The peptides in this serum stimulate collagen production, improve skin texture, and reduce fine lines  while facials tailored to your skin type boost blood flow and circulation, enhancing the absorption of active ingredients and providing an overall anti-aging effect.

Happy 40th Birthday, Heidi!