Doctor, mom, foodie, outdoor enthusiast and skincare expert – Umhlanga’s Dr Cebi Sibisi wears many hats. We spent some time getting to know the woman behind the white coat.
A proud wife and mom to two children, aged 20 and 17, Cebi says family has always been her greatest source of strength. While she’s now a respected dermatologist, the road to getting there was longer and more challenging than she ever imagined.
Tell us about your journey to becoming a dermatologist.
It was far from straightforward. Although I was the Dux scholar at school and had always dreamed of becoming a doctor, I wasn’t accepted into medical school after matric. Instead, I began studying IT before moving into pharmacy at the University of Durban-Westville, never giving up on my dream until I was eventually accepted to study medicine.
During that time, my family faced financial hardship after my father, a mineworker, was retrenched. With faith, determination and the unwavering support of my family, I completed my medical degree, internship and community service.
The biggest challenge came when I applied to specialise in dermatology. I was rejected four times before finally being accepted. Those setbacks taught me resilience and reinforced a lesson I now live by: dreams delayed are not dreams denied.
This year marks 21 years since I qualified as a doctor and nine years in private practice as a dermatologist. Along the way, I’ve had the privilege of travelling the world as a Key Opinion Leader, collaborating with leading global skincare brands while remaining deeply committed to caring for my patients and educating people about skin health.
One of my proudest moments was being voted runner-up in the Best Dermatologist category of the Best of Durban Awards 2025. That recognition means so much because it reflects the trust my patients place in me. Looking back, every obstacle prepared me for a purpose greater than I could have imagined.
What’s one thing people are always surprised to learn about you?
Most people assume I’m a born-and-bred Durbanite, but I’m actually from the small town of Bethal in Mpumalanga. I moved to Durban in 2000 to study, fell in love with the city, especially its beaches, and never looked back.
How do you like to unwind after a busy day in the practice?
A walk outdoors, quality time with my family, a simple skincare routine, a cup of tea and a good book are my perfect way to end the day.
Where’s your favourite place to spend a weekend in KZN?
I’m happiest outdoors, so I’m spoiled for choice in KwaZulu-Natal. I love escaping to the Midlands, heading out on game drives whenever I can, or exploring our beautiful coastline.
Closer to home, I’m also a self-confessed foodie. My family would probably tell you we have a permanent table at Tightline in Umdloti and 45 Eat Street in Ballito!
If everyone could adopt just one skincare habit, what should it be?
Wear sunscreen every single day, even when it’s cloudy or you’re indoors. It’s the single most effective product we have for preventing premature ageing and reducing the risk of skin cancer.
GET TO KNOW CEBI
Three words your friends would use to describe you:
Dependable, compassionate and driven.
What’s always in your handbag?
Lip balm, sunscreen, hand cream, sunglasses and chewing gum. I never underestimate the power of being prepared.
What are you reading or watching right now?
I’m hooked on The Cleaning Lady on Netflix and currently reading The Housemaid series by Freida McFadden. The psychological twists keep me turning the pages.
What’s one piece of skincare advice everyone should know?
Healthy skin isn’t about chasing trends. Consistency with a simple, science-backed routine will always outperform a shelf full of miracle products.
Beautiful skin starts with…
“…a healthy skin barrier, daily sun protection and consistency – not perfection.”
Details: www.drcebidermatology.co.za; IG: @drcebi_skindoc
Photos: Kim Steinberg Photography Makeup: Ncumisa Sigalelana
Outfits: Zarth Designs Location: Creativ Sprout
