The Hong Kong entrepreneur has created products that are effective and combines stem cell technology with clean ingredients
Nicholas Chow launched his skincare brand TiN5 Skin in April with two concepts in mind: One, that products are explicitly formulated for people living in coastal cities with humid and polluted climates; and two, to follow a Farm2Face philosophy, meaning all products are made in Hong Kong with high-quality ingredients and plant-based preservatives to “guarantee 60 days of freshness”.
When Chow talked to Tatler last month, before TiN5’s launch at the Asaya shop within Rosewood Hong Kong, the 28-year-old explained that he designed the products, which he calls “solutions”, with environmental sustainability and long-term wellness in mind. In fact, he has turned to using clean ingredients and stem cells in his formulations to repair and regenerate skin cells.
Chow says he plans for TiN5 Skin to be the “pride of Hong Kong”, and sees the city—his hometown—as having the potential to flourish as a beauty hub. He also wants to empower consumers to shop locally while getting to know their skin better. For example, that factors such as hydration, nutrition and the body's immune system, as well as environmental factors such as pollution and UV radiation play a role in overall skin health and condition.
Read more: Weirdo Beauty’s Yuki Wong on why Hong Kong needs cruelty-free, plant-based and personalised skincare
Why did you decide to launch a skincare brand?
Starting TiN5 was a deeply personal dream of mine that stemmed from my own struggles with eczema. It was so bad that I could barely focus in school. Sweating made my skin burn, so I avoided exercising and ended up becoming overweight.
Fortunately, my parents were able to create bespoke skin solutions that relieved my symptoms, but this experience opened my eyes to the importance of having access to effective skin solutions.
Growing up and noticing others around me were also struggling with skin issues—such as eczema, dermatitis, and rosacea—I became even more committed to the idea of creating a skin-health brand that prioritises clean, nourishing ingredients to protect and heal the skin. With this in mind, my sister Karen and I founded TiN5 [at the end of 2022].
What is the relevance of the name Tin5?
There are two meanings to the name: Firstly, [one of the meanings of] tin (天) in Chinese is “days”, and five refers to the number of days it takes to see a significant change when using our solutions.
Secondly, the deeper meaning behind our brand name is rooted in the love and heritage of our family. [I am one of five siblings], and we share tin in all of our names. The name reflects the bond between us; it’s truly a family affair.
