Kim Lim is a force, not only a great beauty of our time but a visionary entrepreneur, and a philanthropist whose influence extends far beyond the realms of style and wellness.
In Singapore, Kim is an icon, celebrated not only for her striking elegance but for her vulnerability regarding her personal experiences with skin issues and hair loss. She used these challenges as a catalyst far greater than personal struggles. Kim set out on a mission to create solutions where none yet existed. Refusing to accept limits, she travelled the world in search of the most advanced treatments, returning home with a mission to offer the very best to others.
From this vision was born Papilla by Kim Lim, launched in 2019, a pioneering centre dedicated to restoring scalp health and hair vitality through non-invasive, science-led methods. Its philosophy is as refined as its founder: intelligent, holistic, and deeply human. To this day, Kim tests every protocol herself, ensuring that the treatments embody not just effectiveness but her personal standard of excellence.
Her empire of innovation soon expanded to include illumia Medical, illumia Therapeutics, and illumiaFace — each a sanctuary of technology and artistry, enhancing not only beauty but confidence and well-being. And yet, behind the empire, there is a woman whose heart beats for more than enterprise. Kim’s philanthropy, particularly her devotion to mothers and children in need, reveals the depth of her character. She gives not from duty but from empathy, turning her own life experiences into lifelines for others.
Now, London becomes the latest chapter in this story, a city she is deeply-connected to. Papilla by Kim Lim, Asia’s foremost science-backed scalp and hair regrowth centre, has opened its first international clinic at 11 Grosvenor Place. Housed within an extraordinarily glorious grand façade, the clinic is every bit as beautiful as its founder: chic interiors and a private terrace with sweeping views across Belgravia, offering clients a rare sense of privacy and calm in the heart of the city.
Already, the signature Qi Flow Scalp Revival — a 10-step ritual blending ancient Asian wisdom with cutting-edge European technology, is captivating London’s tastemakers. More than a treatment, it is a restoration of vitality, a reprieve from modern stress, a promise of renewal.
Kim Lim is more than a name, more than a face. She is the embodiment of beauty in its truest form: visionary, generous, and unafraid to lead with both grace and strength.
Here, Kim Lim reveals her little luxuries…
When I need to reset, I always…
Retreat to a serene temple in the Thai countryside, where I can shut out the noise of the world and reconnect through quiet prayer.
To make ordinary tasks feel special, I…
Have passion, love whatever I do, and do whatever I love.
The ritual that helps me feel connected to myself is…
Praying every day and making sure my regular skincare and scalp care treatments are on form.
A piece of art that inspires me…
The art of transforming someone’s skin or scalp to what they desire. That’s my form of art.
My room service order is…
A perfectly crisp Caesar salad.
When I’m travelling I always treat myself to…
Fine wine and unforgettable dining experiences.
When I have time to myself, I love to…
Indulge in great wines.
I feel most connected to others when I…
Share the same interest, mindset, and fighting spirit.
My favourite scent is…
Fruity, flora, something a little sweet.
I love collecting…
Beautiful bags and timeless clothing.
A song that brings me joy…
APT
My skincare routine isn’t complete without…
My illumia Skin mask!
I feel the most beautiful when I…
Have no makeup on; just my glowing, natural skin after recovering from my illumia skin booster treatments.
To celebrate, I treat myself to…
Private jet escapes and rare vintage wines.
A city with a special place in my heart…
London, the city where I grew up, studied, and built unforgettable memories.
My favourite food in the world is served…
Raw, in its purest and freshest form.
On a Sunday morning you can find me…
Working from my phone, blending productivity with quiet moments.
One haircare product I can’t live without is…
Papilla’s NAD+ Hair Serum, my secret to healthy, beautiful hair.
