Why I Create Skincare from Scratch: The Art of Originality
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Launching Vance Cosmetics was an act of creativity. A way to merge my passions for beauty, herbalism, and professional compounding into one purpose-driven outlet. Every product I create is an expression of originality, inspired by a commitment to crafting skincare that is as unique as the individuals who use it.
I want to share my thoughts on creating products from scratch and why I steer clear of pre-made skincare bases.
The Heart of Handmade
As someone who values creativity and authenticity, I approach skincare formulation the same way an artist approaches a blank canvas. If I’m making a lotion, I don’t reach for a pre-made base. Instead, I begin with the essentials: oil, water, an emulsifier, and purposeful additives. This hands-on process allows me full creative control over every ingredient, ensuring the final product meets my standards for quality, performance, and safety.
Pre-made bases, like lotion or soap bases, serve their purpose in the DIY world. For instance, melt-and-pour soap is a fantastic way for hobbyists to create custom designs without starting from scratch. However, as a business owner, I believe selling pre-made formulations doesn’t align with my philosophy of originality.
Why Pre-Made Bases Fall Short
1. Reduced Creative Control: When you start with a pre-made base, you limit the ability to innovate or customize at a fundamental level. It’s like coloring inside the lines instead of creating your own picture.
2. Ingredient Selection Matters: I carefully select every ingredient that goes into my products to align with my values of safety, efficacy, and sustainability. Pre-made bases remove that layer of intentionality.
3. Artistry is Key: For me, every skincare product is a work of art. Using a base feels like cutting corners, and it doesn’t reflect the level of care and craftsmanship I aim to provide.
Recognizing the Role of Pre-Made Bases
That said, I do believe pre-made bases have their place. They’re fantastic for beginners experimenting with skincare or for quick DIY projects. In fact, I’m happy to share ideas for using melt-and-pour soap in creative ways! But for my brand, every product needs to tell its own story—and that means starting from scratch every time.
What Do You Think?
This is my personal philosophy, and I know not everyone feels the same. I’d love to hear your thoughts. Do you value products made from scratch, or do you think pre-made bases serve a greater role in the skincare industry?
