Beauty Boss: Ray Wood, Co-Founder, EVP and CFO of DefenAge
Ray Wood.
Our latest Beauty Boss is Ray Wood, Co-Founder, EVP, and CFO of DefenAge—a global anti-aging skincare brand that helps achieve maximum results. Founded by a team of regenerative medicine experts, the well-respected clinical line has received many awards and accolades, including being named an Inc. 5000 Fastest-Growing Private Company, and is a favorite among dermatologists, plastic surgeons, and aesthetics professionals.
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DefenAge expanded its distribution to consumers in 2019 and continues to put clients first by ensuring that their products meet the highest standards in the industry. All of their cosmeceutical products are made in Southern California and are formulated in accordance with Clean Beauty standards. Their products are gluten-free, do not contain any animal or human byproducts, and they do not conduct animal testing.
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Wood worked for years at a public accounting firm before moving into corporate finance and working with various start-ups and public fortune 100 companies as a Controller, VP of Finance, and CFO. We chatted with Wood who shared his favorite wellness tips, secrets for success, best advice, and much more.
When was DefenAge founded and what does the name mean?
DefenAge was founded in 2014 by a group of regenerative medicine experts. The name comes from the innovative skincare formula using Defensin-molecules that stimulate the skin's regenerative abilities. It is also a play on the words: Defend Age.
What inspired the creation of the brand?
Our group of regenerative experts were researching a cure for diabetic ulcers to help a friend. During their research they encountered defensins and the skin’s ability to rejuvenate itself.
DefenAge is a global anti-aging skincare brand founded by a team of regenerative medicine experts.
Does DefenAge have a hero product?
The 8-in-1 BioSerum has the highest concentration of defensins and our customers experience more firmness, smoothness, color evenness, overall quicker and faster anti-aging results at a global scale when compared to any other serum in the market.
What are your favorite products from the brand?
In my daily skincare routine you’ll find our 8-In-1 BioSerum, 24/7 Barrier Balance Cream, 10 Luxe Hand and Body Cream, and our 1-Step Multi-Cleanse. This 4-step routine gives me all I need to maintain my skin healthy.
Where are your products sold?
Professional aesthetic service providers (dermatologists, plastic surgeons, medi spas) and on our website.
Future plans for the brand?
It is our mission to be come a catalyst that empowers people to embrace their life at any stage. To help them feel secure giving them the confidence to live life on their own terms while they age gracefully. We plan on becoming the pioneers of Longevity Skincare in the U.S. and worldwide.
Who inspires you?
As a man of faith, God is a huge inspiration in my life. I’m also inspired by the underdog. Anyone that can persevere from any life circumstances gets my respect and admiration.
DefenAge’s 8-in-1 BioSerum ($246-$264) is an excellent retinol and bakuchiol serum alternative that works by improving the overall health and appearance of the skin.
Secret to success?
Hard work, be honest, and listen to customers.
Beauty secrets?
Maintaining healthy skin leads to a beautiful appearance. This is a long-term game, so don’t wait to start your beauty regimen—start as early as you can for long-term results.
Wellness tips?
Staying active, eating well, and finding ways to decompress in a healthy way.
Best advice?
Don’t take things for granted. I tell people: “Don’t blink.” That’s how fast life goes by.
Favorite way to relax?
Playing sports like tennis and golf are ways for me to stay active but also bring a piece of relaxation to my being. I love sports that bring me closer to nature; surfing, kayaking, hiking, etc. Feeling that connection vanishes all the problems of the day.
For more information about DefenAge, visit the website and follow on Instagram: @defenageskincare
[Images courtesy of DefenAge]
Kamala Kirk is a University of Southern California graduate and has been an editor/writer for more than a decade. She has written for E! Online, Total Beauty, TravelAge West, Malibu Times Magazine, and many more. She resides in Los Angeles and is a proud pug mom. Follow her on Instagram: @kamalakirk