Read our latest interview with Noa Nichol from Vancouver-based lifestyle magazine, Vitadaily. See extract : Hello Maryann! Please tell us a bit about yourself to start. I’m the founder of Kambiio Skincare. I moved from Ireland to Saskatchewan in 2018. I knew it is cold over here but didn’t imagine how brutal the winters would be. I was pregnant at the time and my skin became sensitive and suffered from excessive dryness due to environmental and hormonal changes. My background is in pharmaceutical science with drug quality assurance and regulations. Once, I had my baby, I started looking out for pharmaceutical jobs but it was difficult to find one in my locality. I finally got into the cannabis industry. It was a new and exciting industry with loads to offer. I was in a new country, a new job and I just thought I will learn something new! I enrolled in skin-care formulation courses. I always had an interest in skin care but the problem was I approached it with overconsumption. Previously, I would use a dozen of products at once and suffer from burning sensations and irritations here and there. I was so attracted to gigantic marketing product names rather than the product ingredient lists. It was a turning point for me to have a better understanding of the products I was consuming. You can imagine when a brand says they used a certain technology or complex, they trademark a name and you find out it is in fact an in-house blend of a couple of essentials oils or where a minuscule amount of a hyped ingredient has been added only for the purposes of marketing. It definitely felt good to be experimenting and creating products for myself that suited my own skin needs. Aside from skin care, I enjoy travelling, fashion and interiors. I love reading self-development books. My all-time favourite is The Secret by Rhonda Byrne. I love anything that involves researching or investigating. I feel they all bring certain elements to Kambiio. When and why did you launch Kambiio? What niche in the beauty/skin-care realm were/are you aiming to fill? A couple of years ago living in Ireland, my sister and I would discuss how we can import cosmetic products to Ireland. My sister is very much into makeup, but finding the right products that suited brown skin was very difficult at that time. A lot of the new product launches would happen in the U.S. and it’s a pain to get them over to Ireland. This was the pain for a lot of people really and we would always talk about having an outlet where we can import these products and sell them. We talked about it but didn’t have the money and time to progress with the idea. That was the first time I thought about venturing into the cosmetics world. I thought about creating cosmetics a few times but I always pictured it like pharmaceutical manufacturing/production plants, with big mixers, bioreactors and multi-unit operations. I didn’t think it was practicable. In the middle of studying organic skin-care formulation, I started to think I could actually do this. My primary skin-care concern is sensitivity and dryness. I wanted to bring back lustre to my skin and maintain a healthy skin barrier. The foundation of Kambiio started in the winter of 2019. A lot of groundwork was put in right in the middle of the pandemic in 2020 and we finally launched this summer, 2021. I wanted to bring products that were without the fluff, without fillers, without the marketing gimmicks. I also wanted an empowering connection with the products that I use. I discovered the benefits of African botanicals and unrefined ingredients, and you will always find them in our formulations. What products do you currently offer, and what makes them unique? We currently have two products: our Kambiio Excel Radiance Oil Serum ($115) and Kambiio Dreamer Refining Oil Serum ($110). Everything about these two products is unique. From the blend of premium nutrient-dense botanicals, result-driven formulae, to our essence as a brand, our ethos and our distinctive packaging. We champion rich African botanicals as well as virgin, unrefined ingredients in our formulation to deliver valuable phytonutrients with compelling benefits for the skin. Our main focus is promoting optimal skin vitality and radiance with the beauty that nature has given. Our current products are without fragrance and essential oils, which a lot of people with sensitized skin appreciate. When we overload our skin by combining too many actives, too many products, or have adverse reactions from certain ingredients, products like the Excel serum will help nourish, protect and fortify the skin barrier. The mild scent of the products is all from raw organic virgin/unrefined ingredients. Quality assurance is very important for me. We ensure our products are made without compromise, in an environment that is compliant with good manufacturing practice (GMP). Our products are also third-party tested for heavy metals and other quality parameters. Heavy metals like lead, cadmium, mercury, arsenic and antimony present significant toxic properties and are more likely to find themselves as impurities in natural skin-care products because they are naturally occurring in the environment and are also likely present in pesticides and fertilizers used for cultivating. These metals have to be within the acceptable limits in cosmetic products. Even though we fall under the “clean and natural skin care” umbrella, we predominantly use the term “conscious”. For us, being conscious is knowing that each product has been created with intention, the awareness of our skin, the type of ingredients we use, our formulation, production and packaging process; the decisions we make, what we do and why it matters. Tell us about the African connection, through your company name, botanical ingredients and gorgeous packaging! I wanted to go back to my roots on this one. It is was something that was authentic for me. Africa is written all over the brand in subtle ways. The name Kambiio is culled from the word Kambiri, which means to come alive in the Igbo language. Igbo is a large ethnic group in Western Africa. There is a particular Igbo way of speaking where they add “o” at the end of a sentence. That is how Kambiio came about. Part of our DNA is distinctive patterns inspired by African Uli murals. Uli designs are decorative abstract lines and curves used years ago to beautify the skin and body, drawing attention to one’s best features. It is used to restore or give an identity not just on the body but on properties such as walls, fences, pots, and textiles. It is also worn when celebrating festive occasions. Uli is comparable to modern-day tattoos. People admire the beauty and uniqueness of these designs. In ancient Egypt and some other parts of Africa and Indian cultures, we see the use of henna. Henna is still used today to beautify the skin of a bride on her wedding day. We harness luxurious botanicals from the rich soil of Africa, like Marula, Baobab, Moringa and Kalahari melon. I am also working with other rich and sumptuous African botanical extracts for future products. These indigenous plant botanicals have been tried and tested for many years because of their skin-benefitting properties. They are rich in antioxidants with restoring and anti-inflammatory properties. They are very valuable for radiance focus formulations because they are excellent for premature aging, moisture-retention, rejuvenation, and hyperpigmentation skin care. They are ideal for all skin types including dry and sensitive skin. A very popular African ingredient is Shea butter and it is loved by so many as well. The efficacy of these botanicals speak for themselves. Every precious drop of our products delivers optimal phytonutrients that revive the natural radiance of the skin. I thought at the time, working in the cannabis industry, maybe I would venture into a CBD-infused skin-care brand. Coming from a science background, you have to look at historical data on the use of these ingredients, scientific understanding of phytochemistry to connect the dots and see the value of African botanicals. With all that being said, Kambiio is simply an expression of restoration, beauty and radiance. Your product names certainly are empowering; tell us about the process of coming up with those, and how they reflect your brand/beauty philosophy! It took a while to figure out the right names for the products. I made a couple of changes before settling for Excel and Dreamer. I wanted the names to be elevating and also reflect the description of the product. A couple of months prior to this time, my little boy was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). A lot was happening at the same time. My co-operate job was at stake due to the time I had to attribute to appointments and early intervention programs. At that point, I knew that Kambiio had to be more. I immersed myself completely when I had to work on Kambiio. I wanted a positive feeling to hold on to. I wanted self-appreciation and reflection that allow me to be present. I wanted to go out there knowing I will excel each morning regardless of what the day brings. I wanted to continue to dream with purpose with an attitude of gratitude. This for me is my wellness pursuit. Skin care is important but the care of self is crucial for our wellbeing. Our entire brand philosophy is created with intention. This is intentional and I hope that others feel empowered in one way or the other. In that little time when you apply your skin-care products, that self-touch when you stand in front of the mirror, you have the power to transform not just your skin but your state of mind, too. What new launches from Kambiio can we look forward to next?! There is a lot in stock for Kambiio. I’m currently in the research and development phase for a couple of products. It is too early to know what product, in particular, will be launched next. I am going to key into post-market reports, reviews, and feedback of our current products and see where these lead in terms of new product launches. There is a lot of interest in the Excel Radiance Oil Serum. I presume a Radiance Hydra Serum or Elixir may possibly be the next product launch. Definitely follow our social media pages to know when we have news on product launches! For me, every aspect of Kambiio must be created with intention. It is always a conscious approach. Please take us through your personal Kambiio skin regime! I use the Excel Radiance Serum for my a.m routine and the Dreamer Refining Serum for my p.m routine. This gives me the optimal balance for my own skin needs. The Excel is also amazing for my hair, cuticle and lip care while the Dreamer makes a good makeup remover. I do mix a few drops of the Radiance Serum with a loose highlighter to create a light shimmering veil, highlighting the top of my cheeks and the bridge of my nose, especially on no-makeup days (basically me every day ). Beyond skin care, every Kambiio product presents an opportunity to elevate your routine. A time to care for skin, care for self and embrace your inner radiance. Full Interview available: https://vitadaily.ca/2021/10/07/saskatchewan-made-skin-care-with-african-roots
Plant a seed or a flower and give it your full attention. Take pictures of nature, the moon, garden, park, etc. Watch the sun rise or the sun set. Go bird watching. Go fruit picking. Walk barefoot on grass. Have a swim in a river. Go for a mindful walk on a beach. Go camping. Go for a hike. Try forest bathing. Practice meditation or active relaxation outdoors. To learn more, follow us on Instagram @kambiio_skincare and subscribe to our newsletter below.
Dubbed the monkey-bread tree or upside-down tree due to the tree’s crown resembling its roots, spreading upwards from its trunk. Baobab is the most splendid and beautiful of all trees indigenous to the African Savannah. It is sometimes called the Tree of Life. This intriguing and iconic tree has been admired for years not just for its beauty but for its medicinal, nutritional, and cosmetic value. Baobab oil is derived from cold-pressing oil extraction from the baobab fruit pulp. Cold-pressing does not involve heat or chemical treatments and therefore does not alter the nutritive or therapeutic properties. It is characterized by its golden yellow color, silky feel, and very subtle nutty scent. Composition beneficial for the skin: Baobab seed oil is an essential source of vitamins A, C, D, E, F, and K. These various vitamins are said to promote cell renewal, anti-aging properties, and also boost collagen production. Baobab seed oil possesses antioxidant, regenerative and anti-inflammatory properties due to its fatty acid composition. The fatty acid in baobab oil consists of saturated, monosaturated, and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Baobab seed oil is incredibly unique due to its balanced proportion of oleic and linoleic unsaturated fatty acids with stabilizing palmitic saturated fatty acids. The linoleic acid present maintains transepidermal water loss (TEWL). Baobab seed oil contains high concentrations of Omega 6 and 9, which promote skin firmness via the synthesis of collagen. Baobab is less prone to oxidation compared to some other fixed oils, due to its antioxidant properties expressed by its phytosterols, extending its shelf life. Various research has shown the “beauty in baobab”, outlining its safety, and the efficacy of baobab seed oil in topical application. Other mineral components found in baobab are Calcium, Magnesium and Potassium, with the latter being the highest. Advantages of using Baobab seed oil on your skin: To improve skin tone and elasticity. To repair and promote a healthy skin barrier. To alleviate sunburn and damaged skin. To soothe acne, eczema and rosacea conditions. To combat the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. To restore and moisturize the skin. Baobab seed oil benefits many skin types including dry, sensitive, and mature skin. An excellent skin conditioner. Promotes rejuvenation. Baobab seed oil is one of the most prominent and luxurious oils in Africa. Although there are reports of an increase in global demand for Baobab oil around the world, from my experience, I have not witnessed any surge in popularity in the cosmetic sector in North America. If you would like to introduce Baobab seed oil to your skincare routine and reap its benefits, try our DREAMER serum, a luxurious refining serum with essential fatty acids and GLA such as black cumin and evening primrose. This serum restores your skin’s natural radiance, promoting skin clarity and a rejuvenated-looking complexion. Further reading: Beauty in Baobab: a pilot study of the safety and efficacy of Adansonia digitata seed oil - ScienceDirect African seed oils of commercial importance — Cosmetic applications - ScienceDirect
What does conscious skincare mean? For Kambiio, conscious skincare is one that is created with intention; awareness of our skin; the sourcing and type of ingredients; packaging process and what we do and why it matters. For the longest time, we tend to look at our skincare needs via a singular lens. Chasing the most hyped ingredients, thinking that one size fits all, concentrating so much on layering our face or body with multitudes of products that may not be serving any purpose for our skin needs. Taking care of your skin can be complex and complicated. In addition, the skin itself is complex! It is the largest organ of the body and offers the first line of defense against external assailants, so there are no surprises here. The skin is an extension of our overall health. Therefore, there are other factors that come into play when addressing your skin concerns. Asides from protecting the skin from UV exposure or using broad-spectrum sunscreens, consider factors like your skin type, age, lifestyle, hormonal fluctuations, environmental/ climate changes and skin conditions that may be unique to you when you review your skincare routine . Certain medications may also aggravate the skin. Good skin care plays a huge role in creating your best skin. Bottom line is that we all want a healthy-looking and radiant skin. Conscious skincare is a mindset, an attitude, and a call to action to only feed our skin with what it truly needs. How to be conscious about your skincare Have a routine: Establishing a daily skincare routine is a vital process. Have your own magic number and aim for balance. Think about how you achieve a capsule wardrobe or even a balanced diet and sort of apply the same methodology to your skincare. Do consider a "less is more" approach. A simple routine of: Cleanse, Tone, Serum, Moisturize and Sunscreen for morning routine and Cleanse, Tone, Serum, Moisturize for evening routine is all you really need. Once or twice a week, you may add facemask and exfoliating treatments. Aim to protect and nourish the skin at daytime and repair and replenish at nighttime. A good skincare routine is not measured by the number of products or the number of steps. Conscious skincare advocates for mindful consumption of products. Learn now: Now is the best time to start decoding your skincare label and learning about your skincare ingredients. The more we know about the ingredients that go into the products that we consume, the better we can make choices when purchasing. If you have a sensitive skin, know that dyes, colorants, and fragrances are common sources of irritation that could trigger inflammation of your skin. Even essential oils can be problematic for sensitive skin types. It is also possible that ingredients considered non-irritants can still trigger irritation or allergies due to the type of cosmetic formulation or the layering of other products in your routine. Stay clear of ingredients on the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the EU hotlist of prohibited ingredients for use in cosmetics. I must warn you that there are ingredients banned in the EU but not banned in the United States and Canada. The EU seems to take a more precautionary approach for safety evaluation. This list of banned ingredients cannot be used in cosmetics, and honestly should never be. A patch test is always recommended when trying products or adding any new skincare products to your current routine. Conscious skincare means paying attention to the ingredients that are inside the product you buy. Ideally, we want to stay clear of ingredients reported to be carcinogenic, teratogenic, endocrine disruptors, and ones that manifest severe allergic reactions. Say goodbye: Goodbye to excessive buying of skincare products that do not suit your skin. Before you buy a skincare product, take time to read the information provided with the product and see if the product is right for your skin needs and optimal skin vitality. For example, if you use aggressive cleaners that dry out your skin and stripe it from its natural oils, you should ideally have a hydrating face mist and face oil serum in your routine to counteract the dryness, bringing your skin to balance. When you hear of a trending skincare ingredient, follow such ingredient consciously with adequate research. Choose products based on what they can do for your skin health. I must admit that sometimes knowing that a product is good for your skin and meets your skin needs may come only from experience using the product. Still, there is no harm to familiarize yourself with the information provided on the product packaging. Ensure to swap or gift products that are not suitable for your skin so that they do not go to waste. Conscious skincare is choosing your skincare products with ingredients that do good for your skin. Beyond skincare: Many skincare brands rely on expensive packaging and style over quality and substance. I see the need for a beautiful branding - who would not want a nice-looking bottle or jar on their beauty shelf? I think we all do! However, it is important to look beyond the packaging. Continue to support brands that have more to offer. Support brands on the cutting edge of sustainability initiatives; recycling, waste management. Also support brands that use environmentally friendly formulations/green chemistry (not green washing!) as well as those that support the community through charitable initiatives; engage in ethical sourcing of ingredients or materials; use organic and fair-trade ingredients. Businesses that are certified B Corporations embody the aforementioned and should also be considered. Support brands that do not test their product on animals! Cruelty-free skincare should be a given at this stage. Conscious skincare is exploring and supporting those brands that have conscious ethos - a philosophy that aligns with your own values. Skincare requires consistency: Accept that the skin has a natural ability to renew itself, which can take up to 28days. Make your skincare work for you by being consistent and giving it time to stimulate the renewal cycle. Look out for the period after opening (PAO) date on your skincare product and desist from consuming products past the PAO date once opened and also past their expiration date. This is to ensure that you are consuming products that are stable, effective and safe. The PAO date is different from the shelf life or expiry date and lays emphasis on when the primary container or packaging has been opened and maintained under the specified storage condition. Do not be stressed trying to keep up with unrealistic beauty norms or the idealized standard of beauty. Nutritional deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, stress, lack of sleep, diet, prolonged sun exposure, genetics, among others are contributing factors that influence the way your skin looks or feel. Continue to take care of factors that you can control to achieve that healthy, radiant skin. Conscious skincare is embracing your uniqueness and glowing inside-out. To learn more, come onboard Kambiio, by following us on our social media channels and subscribing to our newsletter below.
