By: Alva Ree

Q: Dr. Ayu, you have an inspiring journey from a small town in Indonesia to becoming an international expert in aesthetic dermatology. Can you take us back to the beginning?

Dr. Ayu: I was born in Kotabaru, a quiet region in South Kalimantan. Life was simple, but my dreams were anything but small. From a very young age, I was passionate about learning—I finished high school in just two years and earned my medical degree in five and a half years. But even then, I knew that my journey couldn’t stop there. I wanted to bring the advanced medical knowledge back to Indonesia.

Q: And you certainly did. You trained in Korea, Europe, Miami, and New York. What drove you to travel so extensively for your education?

Dr. Ayu: Curiosity and responsibility. As doctors, we must evolve constantly. I wanted to study the cutting-edge techniques—thread lifting, facial contouring, fillers, botox, and mainly stem cell therapy—to offer a great care to my patients back home. I also attend the world’s largest aesthetic medicine congress in Paris annually. For me, knowledge has no borders.

Q: But your work isn’t just about science—you’re known for bringing culture into your practice. Why is that important to you?

Dr. Ayu: Because I believe beauty is rooted in identity. My Indonesian heritage is a source of strength. When I wear traditional clothing like the red Baju Bodo from South Sulawesi or the ceremonial Bazar Galung Pancar Matahari from Banjar culture, it’s not just about looking elegant—it’s a statement. These garments represent abundance, resilience, community, and spiritual harmony. I want every woman to remember that beauty isn’t just on the surface. It’s who you are, where you come from, and what you carry in your heart.

Q: Let’s talk about your clinic. What makes your approach to aesthetic treatment unique?

Dr. Ayu: My goal is to make beauty inclusive. Many of my patients are women going through real challenges—autoimmune issues, insulin therapy, cancer recovery. I design treatments that are gentle, safe, and supportive of their healing. One of our innovative treatments uses a patient’s own blood to create a personalized anti-aging serum. It’s low-risk, natural, and deeply effective.

Q: That sounds revolutionary. Do you feel that Indonesian women are becoming more engaged with skincare and self-care?

Dr. Ayu: Absolutely. I’ve seen such a positive shift. Women are more curious and proactive about their skin health. Many look to Korean beauty trends for inspiration, which I admire for their attention to detail and long-term care. That’s why I developed our luxury booster treatment—for melasma, brightening, hydration, and glowing skin. It’s about restoring radiance from the inside out.

Q: You often speak out against the idea that being beautiful means having lighter skin. Can you share your perspective on that?

Dr. Ayu: This is something I feel strongly about. Indonesian women come in every shade—light, dark, and everything in between. Healthy skin isn’t about being pale. It’s about balance, hydration, even tone, and emotional wellbeing. When you feel good inside, it shows on your face. That’s what true beauty means to me.

Q: And what does beauty mean beyond appearance?

Dr. Ayu: Beauty is a lifestyle. It’s when a woman loves her body, manages her health with care, makes time for joy, and stands in her own power. It’s not about perfection—it’s about presence.

Q: You’re a mother of five, a wife, and a doctor. How do you manage it all?

Dr. Ayu: [smiles] With grace and gratitude. I don’t believe in choosing between family and career—I believe in creating space for both. My children give me strength, and my work gives me purpose. Real success is when you can nurture your family and your dreams simultaneously.

Q: What are your hopes for the future of medicine in Indonesia?

Dr. Ayu: I dream of greater access to advanced healthcare technologies, especially for severe conditions like cancer and diabetes. We have so much talent and potential in this country. With the right innovation and support, Indonesians deserve and will get better.

Q: Lastly, what would you say to women who feel overwhelmed, tired, or unsure of themselves?

Dr. Ayu: I see you. I’ve been there. It’s okay to take a break, cry, and feel lost. But don’t stay there too long. Get up. Remind yourself who you are. You’re stronger than you know. You’re beautiful not just because of how you look, but because of how you live, love, and rise.

Q: Beautifully said. Thank you, Dr. Ayu.

Dr. Ayu: Thank you. And to every woman reading this—be brave, be kind to yourself, and never forget that your strength is your power.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this interview are those of Dr. Ayu Widya and do not necessarily reflect the views of the interviewer or the publication. This article is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health or medical concerns.