Start a Small Business Selling Home- Made Cosmetics
A Home Business Article Contributed by Kaajal Tomar
The Beauty Business - a Small Undertaking
It makes sense to start a small business catering to the cosmetics market. The beauty and cosmetic industry has seen a steep rise in the last decade. A new trend started when the countries in the west such as the USA took to the organic and the kitchen- self-beauty products of the East. The East - Asian countries take pride in their ancient cultures and traditions. Every ingredient on the kitchen- shelf is used for its unique properties.
For example, turmeric to lighten the skin color, milk to soften and moisturize the skin, almonds to treat dry skin conditions etc. Many people who started their small home- made beauty products business are worth millions today. There is a huge potential in this segment. You too could start your own business on a small scale and then build it as you become successful.
A Low- down on the Nitty- Gritty of This Small Business
A thorough understanding and knowledge of the ingredients and products is necessary to make good quality products. An intensive research on the Internet or training under some professional would do the needful.
Some of the equipment which you will require for this small business are- a stove to heat the ingredients, mixing bowls, spatulas, air- tight containers, moulds etc. A fresh supply of ingredients is very important. As these products are free of chemicals, the shelf life of the products is not very long. Some can last up to six months. But if you follow some advanced techniques using some chemicals they can last up to three to five years also.
But it is always advisable to start this business on a small scale, as your investment will be low. Once your products are selling well and are well known, you can think about the big picture. This way the chances of success are more.
Some Herbal Recipes to Begin Your Small Beauty Business
Soaps: home- made soaps is the best bet for people who are starting their small business, as they are easy to make and are less expensive. Most people tend to buy new products if they are not very expensive.
Honey and almond soap- for 1 soap you will need two tsp honey, paste of five almonds (soaked overnight) and vegetable fats. Coconut oil is the best bet as it has excellent moisturizing properties. You can find it easily in most drug stores or department stores. Alternatively you can also use glycerin, which is a by-product of coconut oil or even extra virgin olive oil. Again, you can buy it from any store. Heat the fat on a low flame and add honey and almond paste. Stir well and put in moulds of desired shape. When set, wrap in a thin plastic sheet and put in an attractive cardboard box.
Deep cleansing soap - for one soap you will need ten table spoons fuller's earth, one-teaspoon glycerin, some crushed rose petals and rose water. Mix all ingredients and set.
Hair oils - coconut oil and Aloe Vera make a good oil to give shine and luster to hair.(for all hair types). Cut the aloe leaves and take out its pulp. Heat the oil and add the paste. Once the oil turns black, remove from heat. When cool, put and seal in bottles.
Similarly, olive oil and fenugreek seeds make an excellent oil to promote hair growth.
Once you have acquired the necessary training, you will be able to make your own unique products. If you do the right marketing, you will be running your own successful small business.
