The Founder - Irene Chong
Irene Chong is the founder of Sage & Ylang (SAY). A former Singapore Registered Nurse, skincare formulator, and certified Pastiche skin consultant, Irene brings a clinical perspective to skincare, shaped by professional training across Australia, the UK, and Singapore.
SAY began from a personal need. As a mother, Irene experienced firsthand how difficult it was to find skincare that felt truly safe and reliable for sensitive skin. Products marketed as “gentle” often caused more irritation, leading her to question not the lack of options, but the lack of intentionality in how sensitive skincare was being designed.
Rather than chasing fast results or trends, Irene focused on creating microbiome-friendly formulations that prioritise skin stability, predictability, and long-term comfort. Her approach is guided by thoughtful formulation, function-dense ingredients, and responsible choices that respect both the skin’s natural ecosystem and the environment.
Today, Irene leads SAY with a clear belief: when skin is supported to stay calm and stable, healthier-looking results can follow naturally over time.
As a dedicated professional, Irene brings a wealth of training and qualifications to her role as a skincare expert. She has successfully completed:
- Member of the Society of Cosmetic Scientists (Singapore)
- Affiliate Member of The International Federation of Societies of Cosmetic Chemists (IFSCC)
- Member of the Skin Research Institute of Singapore (SRIS)
- Pastiche Skin Consultant (NZ)
- Skin Microbiome and Corneotherapy (Pastiche, NZ)
- Understanding Pigmentation (Pastiche, NZ)
- Advance Diploma in Organic Cosmetic Science (UK)
- Specialist Diploma in Cosmetic Science (Skincare and Haircare Formulation (Singapore)
- Diploma in Organic Cosmetic Science (UK)
- Certificate in Natural Cosmetic Preservation (UK)
- Certificate in Cosmetic Stability Testing (UK)
- Certificate in Anti-Ageing Skincare (UK)
- Certificate in Chocolate Spa Products (UK)
- Certificate in Facial Masque Therapy (UK)
- Coloured Make-Up Formulation (UK)
- Masterclass: Natural Baby Products (UK)
- Beginner, Intermediate, and Advance Course (Natural Skincare Formulation) (UK)
- Bachelor of Science (University of Southern Queensland, Australia)