Why did you apply for the mentoring programme?
The programme offered a valuable opportunity to grow, learn, and discover new perspectives, practices, and trends. In the end, I feel these expectations were fully met and became realities throughout the programme.
Why did you commit to developing and producing natural cosmetics?
As a pharmacist with research experience, I am not opposed to synthetic chemicals, and I am familiar with the principles used to assess their benefits and risks when evaluating a substance. However, when it comes to what we apply to our skin on a long-term, regular basis, I strongly believe it is important to seek natural, skin-friendly, and skin-identical alternatives that can address specific skincare needs. Natural oils, plant extracts, and essential oils are stable mixtures of several compounds, often delivering better results than certain synthetic ingredients. And the natural, plant-based materials are not only good for the skin. These are renewable resources, making them an environmentally conscious choice.
What is the process of product development?
Product development is an exciting, engaging, and lengthy process. With my research background, I am experienced in extracting relevant information from the scientific literature, though it still takes considerable time to determine combinations of active ingredients that are demonstrably effective for a given problem. In addition to the type of active ingredients, their concentration is also crucial, as is selecting the appropriate formulation — whether aqueous or oil-based, cream, balm or emulsion — to ensure proper bioavailability. This theoretical planning is then followed by practical development. At this stage, further aspects must also be considered: the desired characteristics of the product (such as colour, fragrance, and texture), its packaging, and the specific needs of the target user. Regulatory requirements must also be met, ensuring stability and an appropriate shelf life. Cosmetic product development is therefore a complex process, but also a highly rewarding one, ultimately crowned by customer satisfaction and positive feedback.
How does sustainability appear in your manufacturing activities?
For me, sustainability begins with the selection of raw materials. Plant-based ingredients are renewable resources, and I ensure they are sourced through fair trade. I use recyclable packaging, primarily glass containers, and avoid secondary packaging such as boxes. I also reuse incoming packaging materials, and my production laboratory operates exclusively on renewable energy. I develop minimalist formulations, using only a minimal number of auxiliary substances (such as preservatives). Products are made in small batches and, in approximately 90% of cases, are delivered directly from the laboratory to customers, meaning they don’t travel across the world or spend long periods sitting on retail shelves. Sustainability is also reflected in the products themselves, particularly in skincare. It matters greatly what we apply to our skin over the long term. Skin-friendly, skin-identical, natural yet safe ingredients are essential for effective long-term skincare, and CREMEDIQ products are made exclusively with such materials.
How do you compete with other players in the sector, and how do you stay up to date?
The cosmetics market is highly competitive, with a large number of players, and exaggerated or unrealistic claims are common in advertising. We aim to differentiate CREMEDIQ by building it on customer trust. This is grounded in a scientifically sound approach, professional expertise, realistic promises, and high-quality products rich in genuinely effective active ingredients. This may result in slower growth initially, but in the long term it fosters satisfied, loyal customers — and that is what matters most to me. Our focus is on developing products that are effective, safe, and fully compliant with all relevant legal and regulatory requirements, from development through to manufacturing and communication.
What do you think the mentoring programme helped you with the most?
It was extremely valuable in every respect. The presentation topics were relevant and up-to-date, and the speakers and mentors were all leading experts in their respective fields, sharing their experience. The organisation was also flawless. If I had to highlight the most important benefit, it would be the knowledge and advice that can be directly applied in business practice, which has been particularly helpful to me at this stage. These included areas such as artificial intelligence, marketing, brand building, as well as online presence and e-commerce.
Have you established any new partnerships through the mentoring programme with other manufacturers, mentors, or perhaps designers?
We formed valuable connections and took part in several interesting, forward-looking discussions. It was beneficial to exchange experiences regarding entrepreneurial situations, problems and challenges, and to see potentially workable or already tested solutions. However, no formal partnerships have been established yet. I hope these relationships will continue and may develop into future collaborations.
What are your future plans?
In the near future, our plans include launching new cosmetic products, redesigning and elevating our online presence, and further refining the brand’s positioning with a more distinctive identity. In the longer term, our goal is to establish the foundations for an international presence.
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