Supplied: Fuca

Fuca’s journey began when Jessica realised that cancer had stolen not just her health, but her sense of femininity and self-care. As she underwent chemotherapy, which aggressively attacks both cancerous and healthy cells, she saw her skin deteriorate—becoming dry, inflamed, and irritated. The clinical skincare products doctors recommended felt sterile and devoid of the joy she once found in her beauty routine.

“I’ve always been a skincare girl,” Jessica says. “Skincare wasn’t just about vanity for me; it made me feel good. But after my diagnosis, I didn’t want to use products full of chemicals, and I definitely didn’t want to use something that felt clinical and boring. My skin was changing, and I felt like I had no options left to feel like myself again.”

Her experience as a “skincare girlie” became more than just personal frustration—it was a catalyst for action. With a background in the beauty industry (including four years as a brand manager at L’Oreal) Jessica had the expertise and drive to fill this gap in the market. As she recovered from surgery and treatments, Jessica set out to create a skincare brand that would restore a sense of normalcy, femininity, and joy for women like her—those undergoing cancer treatment or living with skin sensitivities.

“Chemotherapy took away so much from me—my hair, my eyelashes, my eyebrows. I lost a nipple,” Jessica explains. “Cancer takes your femininity, and that’s something the beauty industry hasn’t fully addressed.”

Supplied: Fuca

Fuca’s product line reflects this deeply personal ethos, designed to support sensitive, compromised skin while delivering a luxurious, enjoyable experience. Jessica worked closely with cosmetic chemists to ensure Fuca’s products would meet the needs of individuals undergoing treatment while maintaining a sense of indulgence.

“I didn’t want products that were just effective,” she says. “I wanted something that felt good to use, something that reminded me of what I love about skincare. When you’re going through cancer, everything else feels out of your control, but your skincare routine? That’s something you can still have ownership over.”

Her commitment to health-conscious beauty is rooted in her diagnosis. Jessica’s cancer was hormone-driven, making it especially important for her to avoid endocrine-disrupting chemicals like parabens and phthalates, which are found in many mainstream beauty products. These chemicals can interfere with the body’s hormonal system—a particular concern for those with hormone-sensitive cancers.

“I wanted a brand that was completely free from harmful chemicals,” Jessica explains. “I wanted women—whether they’re dealing with cancer, pregnancy, or just sensitive skin—to feel confident that they’re using something that’s good for them.”

Fuca goes beyond just skincare. Jessica is determined to raise awareness and create a space of inclusivity in the beauty world. She’s proudly placed women in Fuca’s first photoshoot are all cancer survivors themselves, shining a light on the space the media often tries to avoid. “Every woman in our campaign has gone through her own cancer journey, and each one has a powerful story of resilience,” says Jessica. “I want Fuca to be more than just a product; I want it to be a platform for sharing these stories, for representing women like us.”

Supplied: Fuca

Representation is resoundingly at the heart of Jessica’s mission. Despite the prevalence of cancer, the beauty industry rarely showcases cancer patients in its imagery. For Jessica, this is a significant misstep—one that she’s determined to change. “Cancer is such a big part of our lives, but it doesn’t define us,” she explains. “There’s strength and beauty in our journeys, and the industry needs to acknowledge that.”

Jessica’s line is not only a brand that meets the skincare needs of cancer patients and those with sensitive skin; it’s also a brand that gives back. A portion of the company’s proceeds will go to the Breast Cancer Network Australia, helping to support those affected by breast cancer across the country. Jessica sees this as an integral part of Fuca’s purpose, allowing her brand to contribute to the wider breast cancer community.

Launching during Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, Fuca represents a new era in skincare—one that celebrates beauty, strength, and resilience.

As Jessica continues her own recovery, currently undergoing maintenance chemotherapy, she’s proud to say that she’s cancer-free and in remission. Through Fuca, she hopes to bring light and care to others facing similar journeys. “Cancer takes so much from you, but I want Fuca to give something back,” Jessica reflects.