Herbal Alchemy natural skincare products are crafted locally in small batches by Phoebe Nguyen. Phoebe is dedicated to creating the best products possible, and her trail and error has led her to finding the right formulas that make her skincare line work wonders. Phoebe set out to create all-natural skincare products with an emphasis on therapeutic properties, and Herbal Alchemy products have given her customers results that speak for themselves.
Who are you and what do you do?
My name is Phoebe Nguyen, owner of a natural skincare business called Herbal Alchemy LLC. My products are freshly made in small batches, locally here in the Arts District of NE Minneapolis. In addition to offering fine quality ingredients that contribute to a luxurious feel, my products also have an emphasis on the therapeutic effect for various skin conditions.
How did you get started in your business?
Growing up surrounded by my mother’s jungle medicine and father’s Chinese herbalism, I’ve always been fascinated by the myriad uses of botany that is abundant around us. My own path toward all-natural skincare started in 2000, after my young baby developed hives from a bubble bath. A friend suggested an oatmeal soak. One look at the ingredient list on the package -- plain colloidal oatmeal -- made me realize that I could make better, more pampering products.
Have you had any major failures? If so, what were some important insights gained?
At first, I read books and made skincare according to the recipes. It was fun and I was happy to share them with my poor mom, who used up everything despite the extreme level of greasiness. Over the years, I gained knowledge of oil properties and experimented with numerous natural ingredients to alleviate different skin conditions, all the while making sure to create products that are quick absorbing and comfortable to put on. The days of greasy moisturizers are over!
What has your favorite moment been since starting your business?
Despite not being a “mall person,” I’ve really enjoyed opening a shop at Northtown Mall. Meeting and talking to people has been very fulfilling to me, especially when I could help resolve issues that my clients have had for a long time. My absolute favorite part is when they come back to let me see the results. One woman even made me touch her face so that I could feel how soft and supple it is after suffering patches of scabby dryness for years!
What do your customers love most about your products?
My customers love how smooth and silky the products feel, upon trying them in-store. However, most would come back excitedly telling me of how they can see and feel a difference after a few days of usage. I’ve been a big believer in the effectiveness of silk peptide, as it promotes production of collagen to make skin feel more firm and heal faster. My customers seem to respond well to this amazing ingredient as well.
What’s the latest thing you’re working on?
On my latest overseas trip, I asked family there to purchase a type of oil in bulk for me, which I have used in the past as part of a calming recipe for eczema-prone skin. The item brought back was exactly what I was asking for, except that it had another ingredient mixed in -- pharmaceutical grade python fat! Upon a discussion with my mother, I learned that it was a traditional ingredient used for anti-scarring in her native upbringing. Further research shows that it is used on keloid scars, in particular. I am in the process of formulating a cream with this precious, new-yet-ancient ingredient.
Check out more about Phoebe's products online, and be sure to stop by her booth at the Minneapolis Gift & Art Expo, November 2-4, 2018 at the Minneapolis Convention Center!
www.herbalalchemyshop.com
www.facebook.com/HerbalAlchemyShop