Meet the founder
Irene Chong
Irene is the visionary founder behind Sage and Ylang, a skincare formulator who combines her expertise as a former Singapore Registered Nurse and a certified Pastiche Skin Consultant with the nurturing touch of a dedicated mother. Driven by her daughters’ struggles with delicate skin, Irene embarked on a personal journey that blossomed into the creation of each biome-focused product. With extensive training in Australia, UK, and Singapore, she is passionate in creating skincare using greener, sustainable ingredient alternatives to craft safe, effective, ethical and environmentally friendly personal care products, particularly targeting sensitive skin.
Her ‘less-is-more’ philosophy is at the heart of Sage and Ylang, ensuring every formulation is crafted to honor the skin’s natural ecosystem and unveil its inherent radiance.
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)