Early
Success

“My goal is to educate people on how to get the right type of skincare and the right type of treatment suitable for their skin.”

– Melissa

In 1984, Melissa began using a German skincare brand but quickly realised it wasn’t suited to Malaysia’s climate. Taking responsibility for her clients’ satisfaction, she sought better options and, by 1989, became the first exclusive distributor for an American skincare brand in Malaysia.

In 1992, Melissa launched the first Leonard Drake centre in the country. By 1995, she owned eight thriving skincare centres and was featured in Woman At Work Magazine for her entrepreneurial success.

Always eager to grow, Melissa pursued advanced beauty therapy courses at the International Dermal Institute in Los Angeles and UCLA, earning international certifications. Equipped with her newfound expertise, she developed customised treatments to address local skincare concerns like acne and sensitivity, mastering her signature extraction technique through relentless practice.

In 2000, Melissa established Malaysia’s first advanced beauty therapy post-education programme affiliated with the International Dermal Institute, aiming to elevate industry standards. By 2002, her business expanded to 20 salons in the Klang Valley, earning her recognition as “Self-Made Chen” in New Straits Times.