We had the good fortune of connecting with Shiwa Aziz and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Shiwa, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
It started from a very personal place. I’ve always loved skincare, but after years of overdoing it with harsh products, I developed rosacea, and that completely changed how I looked at beauty. I realized how many people were damaging their skin chasing quick results, and I wanted to create something different. Clean, gentle, dermatologist-developed skincare that still delivers visible results.

For me, it wasn’t just about launching a product line, it was about simplifying routines, rebuilding trust in what we put on our skin, and showing that you don’t need 10 steps or irritation to see real change. That’s how Moon and Skin was born. From personal experience and a genuine love for helping people feel good in their skin.

What should our readers know about your business?
Moon and Skin was born out of my own frustration with skincare that promised results but left my sensitive skin irritated and reactive. After years of overdoing it (too many actives and way too many steps) I developed a horrible case of rosacea, and it completely changed how I looked at beauty. I wanted to create something different: clean, dermatologist-developed skincare that’s gentle but still powerful and backed with the latest in skincare technology.

What sets Moon and Skin apart is our philosophy: gentle does not mean weak. We focus on clinically effective, clean formulas that support your skin barrier instead of stripping it, and we make it simple. Our Core Four routine was designed for real life, because most people don’t have time for a 10 step process.

Building a brand from the ground up is never easy, but it has been such a meaningful journey. Every challenge has taught me about patience, purpose, and staying true to my vision, even when growth feels slow. I have learned that progress does not have to be loud to be impactful.

What I am most proud of is the community that has grown around the brand. Our customers share their stories, their skin journeys, and their confidence. That’s the real reward.

If there is one thing I want people to know about Moon and Skin, it’s that this brand was built with heart and intention. It’s proof that you can create something meaningful out of your own challenges, and that skincare can be gentle and effective.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend was visiting for a week, we would definitely mix relaxation, movement, and all the best SoCal food and views!

We would start the week slow with a morning matcha from Lola’s Cafe and beach walk in Laguna. This would be followed by a Pilates class at Pure Pilates to set the tone. Lunch at Malibu Farm for ocean views, a little boutique shopping, and sunset drinks at The Rooftop Lounge to wrap up the day.

Midweek, we would spend some time in San Diego. We would get our steps in by walking as much as possible, just enough to earn brunch at Morning Glory in San Diego. We would stroll through Little Italy, grab coffee, and maybe play a casual round of pickleball (because honestly, it’s the only sport and work out I enjoy). Dinner that night would be Campfire in Carlsbad, cozy, fun, and always amazing.

We would dedicate one day fully to self-care. Pilates, facials, maybe a head spa, and dinner at Javier’s, Newport Beach. And of course, a night in with face masks, movies, and our Moon and Skin routines!

By the weekend, we would plan a quick getaway to Palm Springs for pool time, vintage shopping, and a desert sunset before heading back home for one last brunch and catch-up.

That’s my idea of the perfect week. Sunshine, movement, good food, and a little bit of skincare magic in between.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Honestly, I would not be here without my family. My husband and my three boys have been my biggest cheerleaders. They have seen every late night, every event, every box packed, and every goal come to life. My sister has been right there too, always supportive and cheering me on through every stage of this journey.

I also have to shout out the incredible women around me, my team, mentors, friends, and fellow founders who have shared advice, encouragement, and tough love when I needed it most. And of course, our Moon and Skin community, the customers who trust us, share their stories, and keep me inspired every single day.

It really does take a village, and I am so grateful for mine.

Website: https://www.moonandskin.com

Instagram: officialmoonandskin

Linkedin: Moon and Skin

Facebook: Moon & Skin

Other: Tik Tok: @officialmoonandskin

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