Ekin Guney, a molecular biologist with a passion for both science and storytelling, plays a crucial role at Dermoi. Through a structured process of scientific verification, she ensures that Dermoi's skincare products are backed by solid evidence, bridging the gap between complex science and consumer trust.
Q: Ekin, what first inspired you to become a molecular biologist? Was there a moment or experience in your childhood that sparked your curiosity about science?
A: I’ve always been fascinated by how things work beneath the surface. As a child, I was constantly taking things apart… Toys, plants, even food; just to understand what was going on inside. Science felt like the only language that could explain all those things. Over time, that curiosity naturally evolved into a passion for molecular biology, the idea that the tiniest molecules can shape who we are and how we live still amazes me every single day.
Q: What drew you most — the discovery process, the impact on human health, or something else entirely?
A: It’s definitely the connection between discovery and impact. I love how molecular biology sits at the intersection of curiosity and purpose. You can explore pure science, but there’s also the constant reminder that what you uncover could actually improve someone’s life whether it’s understanding disease mechanisms or creating better skincare formulations. That sense of meaningful curiosity is what keeps me going.
Q: Could you tell us a bit about your background and what led you from molecular biology into the world of medical communication?
A: I studied Molecular Biology and Genetics at Koç University, and during my master’s I realised that scientific knowledge only creates real value when it’s shared clearly. After working in research and teaching, I saw how many brilliant ideas get lost in translation, simply because the language of science can feel inaccessible. That’s what drew me to medical communication: it bridges that gap between complex data and human understanding.
Q: You’ve built a career that bridges medical science and creative storytelling. How did that combination become your niche?
A: Honestly, I never saw science and creativity as opposites. They’re both about seeing patterns and telling stories. In my work today whether it’s writing for clinicians or reviewing skincare brands, I always aim to translate scientific rigour into something engaging and relatable. Over the years, that balance became my niche: science you can refer, but also enjoy reading.
Q: Was there a project or turning point that made you realise science MUST be communicated in a more human, engaging way? Why this is important?
A: Yes. Early in my career, I worked on a healthcare campaign where I saw how powerful communication can be. A single well-told story helped thousands of patients understand their condition better than years of dry education ever did. That was a turning point for me. Science has all the answers, but without empathy and clarity, it rarely reaches people.
Q: What do you think is the biggest misconception about medical writing or healthcare communication today?
A: That it’s just about simplifying science. In reality, it’s about translation without distortion. You can’t just make things “easier, you have to make them meaningful while staying accurate. Many people underestimate how much creativity and ethics go into that balance.
Q: As consumers become more educated — and sometimes more sceptical — how do you see the role of science-led communication evolving?
A: I think scepticism is healthy, it pushes us to be more transparent. The future of science communication is about evidence, honesty, and dialogue. It’s no longer about telling people what to believe; it’s about giving them the tools to decide for themselves. That’s where I see the industry heading.
Q: You’ve worked with many healthcare and skincare brands — what was it about Dermoi that stood out to you?
A: Dermoi stands out because it doesn’t just sell skincare, it interrogates it. The scientific verification process here isn’t just a checkbox; it’s an ethical commitment. I love that our team constantly questions claims, reviews peer-reviewed literature, and takes the consumer’s trust seriously. It’s rare in this industry.
Q: What does the process of “scientific verification” actually look like behind the scenes?
A: It’s a structured, multi-step process. We assess full INCI lists, review brand data, check references, and match every claim against current literature. It’s a mix of detective work and quality control. And it’s not just about saying “yes” or “no”, it’s about explaining why. That transparency is what gives our “Pass” or “Not Pass” ratings real credibility.
Q: Do you agree with the opinion that the vast majority of beauty products don't do what they promise? How bad is the situation?
A: Let’s just say, the industry has a truth gap. Many products are beautifully marketed but poorly formulated. However, I wouldn’t say it’s hopeless. There are brilliant brands doing excellent science-backed work; they just get lost in the noise. Our role at Dermoi is to amplify those voices and gently hold the rest accountable.
Q: What part of your work gives you the greatest satisfaction?
A: When science meets clarity. I love seeing people understand something complex for the first time, that “aha” moment. It’s the same joy I had as a student in the lab, just expressed through words now instead of experiments.
Q: What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone entering medical writing or science communication today?
A: Stay curious and stay ethical. You’ll never go wrong if you remember that your words shape how people think about science, sometimes even how they make health decisions. Communicate with integrity, and the rest will follow.
