portia-ella wouldn't exist without the visionaries behind our partner brands. These are women who saw something missing in the Canadian market and then found the courage and ambition to make it available. Or perhaps they had a dream to create something to call their own and change the course of life for themselves and their families. We are eager to champion them as individuals - powerful and full of passion. We are proud to offer their creations here at portia-ella; the largest selection of clean-beauty products in Canada.

Today we sit down with Alexandra Smyth, founder of AK Dermal. "AK Dermal Advanced Skincare is built upon over 20 years of expertise in addressing diverse skin concerns and types. Our collection was born in the treatment room, developed to provide pure, non-toxic solutions that further nurture the skin post-treatment. Each ingredient is meticulously researched for its effectiveness and safety for both skin and body. Our formulas use only safe preservatives, remain clean and non-toxic, and are tested on human volunteers—not animals. Produced in small batches to preserve the efficacy of active ingredients, our formulas meet clinical-grade standards."

about business

How long have you been an indie-beauty brand owner? I launched the brand itself in 2018, but some of the products have been used inclinic on my clients for roughly 10 years.

What was the inspiration to start your brand? After years of working with various skincare brands and performing advanced skin treatments, I began paying closer attention to the ingredients in the products I was applying on my clients. As I dove deeper, I got creative and started playing around with clean, yet highly concentrated formulations

What is your involvement in the creation of your products?  work with a dermatology lab in Canada to have them formulated. While I’d love to say I know how to do it all myself, my expertise lies in understanding skin and ingredients, not the actual formulation process.

Each formula is manufactured in a dermatology lab, collaboratively designed and tested with skincare specialists to ensure optimal results. Produced in Canada, our packaging is recyclable, and we prioritize recycled materials for packing and shipping whenever possible.

Did everything go as planned as you began to build your business? What were some (positive and negative) surprises along the way? It's definitely been a learning process over the years. Each year has brought new growth in so many ways. A lot of sleepless nights and money spent, but it's all a part of the journey haha! Interestingly, the business really started to take off when I was pregnant with my second baby, which taught me a lot about time management and finding balance.

Amid all the challenges of owning your own business, what motivates you to continue chasing your dream? I think what motivates me the most is seeing the incredible before-and-after transformations people achieve, especially those who aren’t my in-clinic clients. I love being helpful, so knowing I can support someone’s skincare journey even without meeting them in person, brings me a deep sense of fulfillment.

Do you have any regrets along your journey? Something you would do differently if you could. Each challenge along the way has helped me grow, so I try and just look forward and think how can we do it differently and better.

about clean beauty

What does clean beauty mean to you? To me, clean beauty means prioritizing formulations that avoid harsh preservatives and unnecessary toxic ingredients while staying mindful of the environment through sustainable production and packaging practices.

Is there a star ingredient your product range? Peptides and antioxidants are definitely my favorites. Peptides offer so many benefits for the skin, from boosting collagen production to improving hydration. Our body accepts peptides because they mimic natural processes, making them beneficial for a wide range of concerns. Antioxidants are amazing for protecting the skin and supporting overall skin health.

What is your favourite product from your brand? My personal favourite products are: Dermal Night Treatment – you seriously wake up with the softest skin. Enzymatic Dermal Treatment – is perfect for preventing & treating breakouts. Collagen Accel Peptide Serum – A must have for daily hydration and collagen boosting benefits.

about you

Describe a "day in your life". Every day is different for me as a mom of two little girls while also running a business. I do value the flexibility it gives me, allowing me to drive my daughters to their activities and create my own schedule. Each week brings new opportunities, so there’s always something keeping me busy and on my toes.