From Comedy Skits to Clean Beauty: Gajen Chandra’s Glow-Up
If you were on TikTok during the lockdown, you definitely came across Gajen Chandra’s hilarious, unfiltered skits. But today, the 27-year-old isn’t just making us laugh—he’s building a skincare brand, navigating the ever-shifting world of content creation, and proving that being real is his ultimate superpower.
In a time when everyone’s chasing trends, Gajen stands out by simply being himself. From viral videos to launching Chandra Skin, he’s living proof that authenticity and ambition can go hand in hand.
TikTok Fame in Malaysia: How Gajen Chandra Kept It Real
Gajen’s rise to fame began during the COVID-19 pandemic, when TikTok exploded with local creators. His slice-of-life POVs, chaotic humour, and relatability earned him a loyal audience.
“I guess I never really had a niche. I just made random videos based on my daily life—and somehow, people connected with that,” Gajen shares.
Unlike many influencers who carefully curate their content, Gajen lets life take the lead:
- No rigid content calendar—he rides the trends as they come.
- Unfiltered storytelling—he isn’t afraid to be a little “unhinged.”
- Always evolving—he now balances TikToks with lifestyle and fashion content on Instagram.
Authenticity in the Malaysian Creator Economy
Even as the algorithm evolves, Gajen’s content stays true to his identity. While some chase virality, he focuses on originality:
“Creativity is about being original. Take inspiration, yes—but it’s about making it your own and staying relatable.”
Here’s how Gajen keeps it authentic:
- He avoids trends that don’t align with his voice.
- He doesn’t fake brand alignments just for clout.
- He collaborates with studios like Aspect Ratio to amplify his reach, not dilute his identity.
💡 Expert tip from digital strategist Aina Karim:
“Malaysian Gen Z audiences are sharp—they can tell when something’s fake. Influencers like Gajen who show vulnerability and humour build real trust.”
From Content Creator to Skincare Entrepreneur
In early 2025, Gajen launched Chandra Skin, a skincare label with a deeply personal story. The debut product? A Dewy Lip Butter in a universal shade called Flushed—inspired by Gajen’s battle with dry, cracked lips while on Accutane.
“I’ve always been into skincare. I’m not a beauty influencer, but I am passionate, especially about lip care,” he says.
Before this, Gajen dabbled in fashion with Stimul8 Apparel, a streetwear brand that fizzled out.
What he learned from his first venture:
- Timing is everything – hypebeast culture faded fast.
- Follow your true interests – not just what’s trendy.
- Failing once doesn’t mean failing forever.
This time, with Chandra Skin:
- He’s taking it slow, with careful product R&D.
- He’s focusing on inclusivity, with plans to release a deeper brown shade soon.
- He’s doing it all himself—even the content, which he admits is tougher than expected.
“I thought it’d be easier since I’m a content creator, but it’s really hard creating for your own brand,” he laughs.
Building a Skincare Brand in Malaysia: The Real Talk
Running a small business isn’t always aesthetic flat lays and viral packaging moments. For Gajen, it’s been about learning on the go—especially in Malaysia’s competitive beauty scene.
What’s helped him stay motivated?
- Support from fellow creators and small biz owners.
- His audience cheering on his every step.
- A clear goal: slow, sustainable growth.
“People in the industry have been really supportive. Maybe because they understand the struggle—it’s been really heartening.”
What Sets Gajen Apart in Malaysia’s Creator Scene
You can spot Gajen from a mile away—tattoos, killer fits, and unapologetic vibes. But beyond the look, his biggest flex is just being Gajen.
“I don’t have a niche. I’m just me. I’m into skincare, fashion, and I love doing different things—that’s the package.”
He isn’t trying to be anyone else:
- Not just another influencer with a brand.
- Not trying to go viral every week.
- Not here to impress, just here to express.
💡 Content creation coach Mei Lin adds:
“The most successful creators today are multi-hyphenates. Gajen’s ability to blend personal storytelling with product building is what makes him future-proof.”
