APOTHAKA

Meet Natasha, the inspiring founder of Apothaka, a skincare brand that’s been making waves since its inception in 2016. With a background in healthcare research and a personal journey marked by skin challenges, Natasha ventured into the world of skincare out of necessity and passion. Apothaka is not just another name in the beauty industry; it’s a testament to the power of personal experience and the drive to create solutions that truly work. Join us as we dive into Natasha’s entrepreneurial journey, the story behind Apothaka, and the secrets to maintaining healthy, radiant skin.

We're all curious about your journey as an entrepreneur. What inspired you to start a skincare brand?

Back in 2016, I decided to take a leap and found Apothaka. Before that, I had a long career in healthcare research—over 15 years. After having my daughter, I faced difficulties returning to work in London. Around the same time, I started having skin problems, particularly hormonal breakouts. Traditional acne treatments didn't work for me because my skin wasn't oily; it was balanced. So, I began experimenting with my own blends of oils at home, diving into courses on product formulation, cosmetic compliance, and regulation. Eventually, friends and family began asking to buy my creations, and that's when Apothaka was born. It was a mix of personal need, midlife crisis, and a desire to work for myself.

That’s quite the journey! Your skin issues weren’t related to oily skin, which is a common misconception. Can you tell us about the first product you launched?

Absolutely! The first products I launched were oil-based formulations because they were safe for me to make without being a cosmetic chemist. I created two face oils—one for normal combination skin and another for normal dry skin—and a nail oil. As I learned more about skincare and skin health, I began focusing on skin barrier health, which led me to more complex formulations. I started working with a chemist to develop these products.

Speaking of skin barrier health, can you explain its importance and how your products support it?

A: Sure! Our skin barrier is our primary defence mechanism, protecting us from the outside world. It works like a brick wall, with skin cells as bricks and lipids as the mortar. When the barrier is healthy, it keeps irritants out and moisture in. If it's disrupted, cracks form, allowing irritants and pollutants to penetrate the skin, leading to issues like dryness, irritation, and breakouts. Many people are overusing activities, which can damage the skin barrier. My products focus on supporting and maintaining a healthy skin barrier using carefully chosen ingredients.

That’s fascinating! How do you choose the ingredients for your products?

AI don't subscribe to the idea that skincare must be natural, organic, or clean. I select ingredients that support skin health, regardless of their origin. Whether they're natural, plant-based, or lab-made, it doesn't matter as long as they work. For example, niacinamide is fantastic for skin health and is lab-made. Sustainability is also crucial, so I avoid ingredients that are a conservation risk and use minimal packaging to reduce waste.

Sustainability is a hot topic. How do you ensure Apothaka stays sustainable?

A: Sustainability is essential, but it's often misunderstood. For Apothaka, it means reducing consumption and creating multifunctional products that reduce the need for multiple items. We avoid outer packaging, which is usually discarded immediately. Our packaging is minimal and recyclable, and we offer travel sizes and samples to help customers try products without waste. This way, we support the environment while providing high-quality skincare.

How do you incorporate customer feedback into your product development?

Customer feedback is vital. I often send out samples of new products to get input on texture, effectiveness, and preferences. For example, I introduced a fragrance-free range based on customer requests. When deciding on packaging for a new product, I let my customers vote. Their involvement makes them feel connected to the brand, which is important for a small business like mine.

Can you tell us about some of your favourite products from Apothaka?

AOf course! One of my favourites is the Skin Quenching Essence, a hydrating essence with a bit more viscosity than a toner. It contains natural moisturising factors that replenish the skin's surface hydration. Another favourite is the Barrier Support Serum, which is designed to support skin health with ingredients like niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides. It's great for anyone using prescription activities, like those with acne or rosacea. Finally, I love the Skin Quenching Moisturizer, a lightweight moisturiser packed with humectants, perfect for oily to combination skin.

Your products sound amazing! Any final thoughts for our readers?

Thank you! My goal with Apothaka is to create effective, multifunctional products that support skin health while being mindful of sustainability. I believe in transparency, listening to customer feedback, and continuously improving. If you're looking for skincare that truly cares for your skin and the environment, give Apothaka a try. And don't forget to reach out with any questions or feedback—I'm always here to help!

Ready to transform your skincare routine with Apothaka? Check out their range of products and experience the difference for yourself! Have questions? Drop them in an email or connect with us on social media. Your journey to healthier skin starts now!