Koh Li Tim, Co-Founder of Paloma.
Koh Li Tim is known to be quite the aesthete. As a Director at Environment Design Consultants (EDC International), he’s part of the team who has put together the beautifully designed interiors you’ve seen at renowned hotels such as the Park Hyatt in Ho Chi Minh, the Avani by Anantara in Bangkok and Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas in Johor.
Now, he’s co-founded his own skincare brand, Paloma alongside his business partners Sheryl Oon and Howie Lee. With the goal of highlighting the rich biodiversity of Southeast Asia, the brand aims to do this region and its people justice by preserving traditional practices.
To do this, all their skincare products are made by utilising the fruits of the land such as herbs, fruits and the many superfoods available here. The result? An immediate bestseller with the Paloma 24/7 Repair Serum, a potent concoction that restores and revives dull skin, thanks to a good dose of Vitamin C, Vitamin E and fermented rice extract. We asked Li Tim to give us the low-down on Paloma.
Paloma’s 24/7 Repair Serum.
What started your fascination with skincare?
Growing up, both my grandmothers would make me broths and herbal soups for wellness, and skin health, and I have absolutely enjoyed the benefits of traditional Chinese medicine to boost overall health. Culturally, I think we have so much to offer.
What made you want to bring Paloma into the local skincare market, was there a gap that you identified?
Paloma was birthed to highlight our home here in Southeast Asia, all its goodness, our combined heritage, utilising that and the more than 130 million year-old rainforest we have in our backyard. We aim to uncover things the world has yet to see in this skincare space.
Could you tell us about the process behind creating your star product the 24/7 Repair Serum?
We have the added benefit of a scientist whom we call Dr P. He is a medical scientist (PhD) and has been a pioneer in cosmetic research for over three decades. Having a medical scientist leading our research and development is unique and what sets us apart from most other skincare brands. Dr P’s refinement in formulations, and the raw materials that he has studied over time, are behind our star product, the 24/7 Repair Serum.
What have you learned so far about the beauty industry since launching the brand?
Being the new kid on the block is tough, but I wouldn’t trade it for the world. We’re working hard, and we’re here to stay.
What are some of the challenges of standing out in the crowded beauty landscape?
Paloma has the benefit of our rich heritage to set us apart. We aim to utilise our unique superfoods and fruits, ulams, and medicinal plants we may or may not already know and love.
What do you hope to solve through the brand?
My vision for Paloma is to empower individuals with effective skincare solutions that not only enhance their appearance but also promote long-term skin health. Ultimately, through Paloma, we endeavour to help people feel confident in their skin, healthily and safely.
