Dr Nigma Talib looks more like a celebrity than a bestselling author and highly acclaimed naturopathic doctor. A quick glance at her Instagram feed reveals photos alongside the likes of Penélope Cruz, Sofía Vergara, Sienna Miller and Gwyneth Paltrow (she even gave the latter a platelet-rich plasma facial on Goop’s Netflix series). Turns out most of them aren’t just her friends, but loyal clients who have long sought her expertise and advice on how to reverse the signs of ageing, which happens to be the title of her first book.
Talib knows a lot about faces – and not just beautiful ones. Her bestseller, Reverse the Signs of Ageing, which was first published in 2015 and again a year later under a new title, explores the connection between diet and premature ageing, while offering an intensive programme to remedy “dairy”, “wine”, “sugar” and “gluten” faces.
“Back then the gut-skin connection wasn’t as widely acknowledged or accepted as it is today – even my publishing house said the topic was niche – but as naturopaths we are trained to assess the gut microbiome because it’s at the root of many health issues. This is how I’ve always practised,” says Talib.
Dr Nigma Talib’s supplement line. Photo: Handout
At a time when people are flocking to social media and wellness influencers for health advice, Talib’s credentials set her apart. The Vancouver native was exposed to natural medicine from a young age and went on to qualify as a certified naturopathic doctor, following an undergraduate degree in premedical studies along with clinical and nutritional training.
She set up her practice in Vancouver in 2001 and quickly became a specialist in what she now refers to as “digest-ageing”. After moving to London in 2015, she branched out into skincare at the request of her patients, who wanted products that supported their now glowing skin (the result of following her strict protocol).
The line harnesses the power of plant stem cells and marine collagen, and features cult items such as Serum No 1 and Treatment Mask No 1 – the latter is a favourite of Penélope Cruz. Supplements eventually also became part of the offering.
Dr Nigma Talib’s skincare line. Photo: Handout
In 2019 Talib moved to Los Angeles, where she is now based, seeing clients out of her Beverly Hills home. Her in-house clinic offers everything from naturopathic consultations and diagnostics, to non-invasive treatments and technologies targeting various skin issues.
“One of our most popular skin rejuvenation treatments is called Time Lift, which I co-developed with a manufacturer. It uses a patented technology called hydroporation that can go as deep as 4mm into the skin,” she explains.
Last year marked a new chapter for Talib, as she embarked on a range of new projects to raise her brand’s profile. She began work on a much-anticipated longevity centre in Beverly Hills, which will open its doors later this year. She also launched a passion project, the HealthyDoc podcast, featuring high-profile guests from the wellness community and beyond such as comedian Chelsea Handler, artist and poet Cleo Wade, and film star Freida Pinto. She has also penned a new book called The Clean Hormone Journey, scheduled for release in June.