Akuwa Skincare was founded by Precious Gabriel. She is a first generation Nigerian-Liberian with an appreciation for earth’s treasures. Precious completed her Bachelors of Science in Biology at Chestnut Hill College and earned her MBA at Saint Joseph’s University. Her passion for skincare took off while addressing her personal skin concerns.

Akuwa [ah-koo-wa] is a mixture of the word “aku” and “uwa”. In the Nigerian Igbo language, “aku” means treasure, and “uwa” means earth. Akuwa Skincare is a new, cutting-edge natural beauty line that has recently released its flagship product, the Elite Glow Vitamin C Serum.

Akuwa is a purpose-driven brand committed to delivering toxic-free, fragrance-free, cruelty-free, and vegan skincare that is earth-conscious, to make clean and sustainable skincare an effortless obligation.

The Elite Glow Vitamin C Serum leverages the power of sodium ascorbyl phosphate, a more stable version of l-ascorbic acid (Vitamin C), Vitamin E, Hyaluronic Acid, MSM, and active botanicals to create a dynamic product that helps fight acne, brighten and hydrate the skin, and reverse signs of aging.

Gentle, luxurious, and perfect for varying skin types, the Elite Glow Serum can be easily incorporated into any morning skincare routine to yield lasting results while championing change and reducing waste for the planet.

We had the pleasure of sitting down with Precious to discuss her passion behind the Akuwa brand and tips we can use to start a solid skincare regime.

Who is Precious Gabriel in five words?
Precious Gabriel is intelligent, creative, business-minded, determined, and thoughtful.

When did you discover your passion for skincare?
I discovered my passion for skincare while working in Macy’s Beauty department in college. I loved testing out different products on myself and my customers. I dealt with oily skin and hyperpigmentation through high school and college so being able to access products that addressed my concerns made me love skincare more!

What inspired the start of Akuwa?
While working on my MBA, I worked on projects that allowed me to build and manage a company. I really enjoyed it and started to think about what I could build in real life? I wanted to start something that I really enjoyed that would not feel like work so skincare was definitely it!

What are the benefits of a solid skincare regime?
I think the benefits of a solid skincare regime are healthier skin, confidence, and peace! It’s so important to not only go through a regime but create a ritual where you are giving your skin what it needs. When you understand what your skin needs and take the time to apply your products, your skin not only absorbs the product and looks better, but you feel better as well.

What sets Akuwa apart?
What sets Akuwa apart is that we are an African -inspired and earth-conscious brand! I wanted a brand that connected to my culture and who I am. Also, I am conscious of the waste that the beauty industry creates so I wanted to make sure Akuwa did not contribute to the enormous amount of waste but contributed to reducing waste by using sustainable packaging options and being a member of 1% for the Planet.

What products do you recommend from your site during the cold winter months?
Our Elite Glow Serum is really great for pulling moisture into your skin during cold winter months because of its hydrating ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid and Aloe. It has Vitamin C and E which work great together to protect your skin from free radical damage and heal your skin. MSM is a great ingredient that helps to boost collagen.

What is next for you and your brand?
Akuwa is currently working on a retail strategy and new products! Stay tuned and join the Tribe for updates!

What is your definition of a Pretty Woman Who Hustles?
My definition of a Pretty Woman Who Hustles is a woman with grace, determination, and resilience! She is constantly evolving and adapting to get the results and outcomes she wants!

Connect with Precious and The Akuwa Skincare Brand here: https://akuwaskincare.com/