by Jordan Foley, Student Public Relations Writer
An estimated 85 million Americans — about one in four people — struggle daily with a skin condition, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.
After years of battling cystic acne and testing countless products with little success, Alex Simons, a junior marketing major at Cedarville University, took matters into her own hands. She created “Skin Safe,” an innovative app that helps users navigate skincare by scanning product ingredients, pinpoint ingredients and recommending safe, personalized alternatives.
Simons’ groundbreaking idea earned the $1,000 first-place prize at “The Pitch,” a business competition hosted by Cedarville University’s Robert W. Plaster School of Business.
Modeled after the popular television series “Shark Tank,” “The Pitch” is sponsored by the Cedarville University Entrepreneurs (CUE) student organization. The event gives students the opportunity to present their entrepreneurial concepts to a panel of business leaders for a chance to win cash prizes.
Simons spent years researching the ingredients in her skincare products only to discover that many contained triggering components that worsened her acne. Frustrated with the lack of effective solutions, she developed an app that could streamline the process for others facing similar struggles.
“Researching skincare ingredients can become time-consuming, and many people don’t have access to reliable resources that pinpoint triggers for their skin reactions,” said Simons. ’Skin Safe’ instantly identifies ingredients and suggests alternatives tailored to each users' unique skin type. My goal is to revolutionize the beauty industry at the touch of a button.”
Beyond just solving a skincare problem, Simons hopes her journey will encourage others.
“At times, my skin issues felt overwhelming, and they took a toll on my confidence,” said Simons. “I want to inspire others to embrace who they are, be open about their struggles and create practical solutions that can make a difference.”
Though “Skin Safe” is still in its early stages of development, Simons plans to launch the app in the coming years with the goal of reshaping the beauty market.
“‘The Pitch’ is something I’ve thought about since freshman year, so it was surreal to even participate — let alone win,” said Simons. “It was an incredible night that I will never forget. I am so grateful to be surrounded by dynamic entrepreneurs who inspire me to create solutions that help others.”
Simons’ determination and innovative thinking did not go unnoticed.
“I’m incredibly impressed with Alex,” said Dr. Kary Oberbrunner, Berry Chair of Entrepreneurship at Cedarville University and best-selling author. “Her professionalism, clarity and authenticity captivated the audience. I believe her idea will provide real solutions to people who are struggling with their skin.”
Cedarville University, an evangelical Christian institution in southwest Ohio, offers undergraduate and graduate residential and online programs across arts, sciences, and professional fields. With 6,384 students, it ranks among Ohio's largest private universities and is recognized by The Wall Street Journal as being among the nation’s top three evangelical universities. Cedarville is also known for its vibrant Christian community, challenging academics, and high graduation and retention rates. Learn more at cedarville.edu.