Ai Li Zhang – Founder of Kuko Beauty

Despite much discouragement Ai Li Zhang persisted with her belief in the virtue of Traditional Chines Medicine in skin care and turned it into a business.

What’s your story?

I, an expert in beauty, have been devoted to skincare research since age 18 and have always maintained excellent skin. However, at age 40, I noticed that my facial skin was sagging and ageing rapidly, which puzzled me. Also known as the Asian Traditional Chinese Medicine Plastic Surgery Goddess, I led a team to independently develop a complete set of Traditional Chinese Medicine plastic surgery techniques. I maintain the best beauty state every day through these techniques. As such, women were able to achieve better results than traditional plastic surgery without the need for knives or injections.

What excites you most about your industry?

What excites me the most about my involvement in the field of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) facial transformations is witnessing how it contributes to the health and confidence of individuals. Observing the happiness and heightened self-assurance that customers exude following their transformations brings me immense joy. It’s a sentiment that I can genuinely empathise with.

What drives you in your career to push beyond what other people consider normal?

The plastic surgery market is a growing industry chain every year, and I believe that the future development space of the current plastic surgery market will be even greater. Moreover, “Traditional Chinese Medicine Plastic Surgery” is an untapped market, and I believe it will be a popular trend in the future of plastic surgery.

What have been the most useful skills you have learnt and applied in your journey?

In my work, my understanding of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) theories has been improving, and I have been extensively applying TCM knowledge to our technical development. This allows TCM plastic surgery to become a new field.

What’s the best piece of advice you ever received?

It was none. Instead, I faced countless doubters who dismissed my ambitions as unrealistic. No one believed that Traditional Chinese Medicine could be applied to plastic surgery. But I refused to let their scepticism deter me. Despite the lack of support, I persevered and ultimately achieved success.

Who inspires you?

Since a young age, I have possessed an immense passion for beauty. While studying Traditional Chinese Medicine, I yearned to make breakthroughs in the realm of TCM beauty. Conventional beauty methods proved insufficient in addressing many concerns. It was during this journey that I discovered the potential of TCM in achieving the effects of plastic surgery. Determined, I embarked on a solitary 7-year research and development endeavour, encountering little understanding or support. Moments of doubt arose, but the prospect of impacting thousands of beauty enthusiasts fuelled my resolve. Adjusting my mindset, I persisted, eventually gaining remarkable recognition from my customers.

What have you learnt recently that blew you away?

Recently, I delved into advanced aesthetics, and it has been a mind-blowing experience. I’ve come to realize that whether it’s “Traditional Chinese Medicine Plastic Surgery” or “Western Medicine Plastic Surgery,” the essence lies in achieving overall harmony. It’s not solely about the technical prowess of a skilled doctor for flawless facial transformations. It encompasses a broader perspective, requiring everyone in the field of plastic surgery to enhance their sense of aesthetics. This newfound understanding has revolutionised my approach and deepened my appreciation for the intricacies of the field.

If you had your time again, what would you do differently?

If given the chance to start anew, I might pursue my deep passion for interior design. With an unwavering dedication to every endeavour I undertake, I am confident that I could excel as an exceptional interior designer.

How do you unwind?

In my free time, I enjoy being in nature, surrounded by the delightful fragrances of trees and flowers. Cooking for my family in the comfort of our home, accompanied by the gentle aroma of incense, while indulging in the soothing melodies of classical music, brings me a profound sense of relaxation and tranquillity.

What is a major mindset change, belief shift or ‘ah ha’ moment that you’ve experienced in relation to your career?

A profound shift in my mindset came when I encountered betrayals and deceit while managing my business. Surprisingly, I eventually realized that these challenges played a crucial role in accelerating my path to success. In retrospect, I now find gratitude for those who betrayed me, as their actions propelled me forward, teaching me valuable lessons along the way.

Everyone in business should read this book:

The Tao Te Ching by Laozi.

Shameless plug for your business or career:

Kuko Beauty uses Traditional Chinese Medicine techniques to enhance the body’s internal and external connection. We use a method called meridian fascia re-sculpting to stimulate the skin and body for aesthetic improvements. This technique targets different levels of the fascia layer to improve skin elasticity, muscle contours, and relax muscles.

How can people connect with you?

Website: https://www.kukobeauty.sg/

Social Media Links?

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kukosingapore

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kukobeauty.sg

This interview is part of the CallumConnects series.