Meet Barbara From Jacq’s Skin Care : Following Nature’s Lead And Slay Naturally
When we face with adversity, we have to seek for alternatives. Jacq’s Skin Care company was born out of adversity but aims to assist everyone with skin care issues by providing the most nature-based products.
Why can’t we slay naturally? Yes, we can! Despite all the skin care problems we might face. I recently contacted Barbara Jacques, the CEO and Co-Founder of Jacq’s Skin Care, to learn more about their unique products and objectives.
Widline: What is your professional background?
Barbara: Bachelor’s Degree in Communications. Background in not-for-profit, marketing and sales.
How did you start with Jacq’s?
Jacq’s was born when my husband and I learned we were expecting our daughter Dominique in 2010. Immediately after learning we were expecting, I also discovered I had an ovarian tumor. I became obsessed with learning about my body and my tumor. After stumbling across a medical journal discussing the systematic effect ingredients have on one health, the light bulbs came on. I knew how to read labels when it came to hair products but didn’t make the connection when it came to skincare and makeup.
My obsession turned into me learning about ingredients, formulations, sourcing, manufacturing, and eventually, I began making my own products. Once I delivered my daughter and recovered, Jacq’s was born. At the time, I realized that many of the products on the market contained toxic ingredients that were harmful, hormone disruptors and cancerous. I wanted to create a product that was safe and result-driven.
Why the name Jacq’s?
Jacques is our family name. We wanted to bring a product to the market that was from our family.
What makes your brand stand out amongst other skin care products?
Our ingredients – We use tropical ingredients sourced locally including yucca, plantains, hibiscus, and jackfruit. We also create products for all skin types and tones.
How did you build your brand? what is your strategy?
Lots of research. I asked myself: what’s missing in the market right now? What are people not doing? Followed by brainstorming —partnered with dynamic individuals that helped me bring my vision to life. A lot of trial and error as well.
What is the biggest challenge in your business sector?
As a woman of color in the beauty industry, people try to place me in a box. But Jacq’s is a collection of skin care for all skin types and all skin tones. I am constantly showing that we are much more than a black brand.
What are some of the products currently offered? Any new products on the horizon?
Stay tuned in the fall for the collection! We have a total of 11 products, but our best sellers including Hibiscus & Wild Carrot Cleansing Bar, Healing Face Cleanser with Papaya and Moringa, Nourishing Face Moisturizer with Yucca & Coconut and lastly the Revitalizing Face Toner with CoQ10 & Hibiscus.
What’s your ideal customer?
- Age 25-35
- Women
- Conscious consumer
- Beauty product junkie
- Sensitive skin type
- Cruelty-free lovers
- Safe enough for pregnant women
- Individuals with problematic skin.
Any new ventures besides Jacq’s?
Creating community events that educate women on the importance of self-care through discussions and yoga classes.
How does your family support you and your business? Do they play any particular role in your business?
Besides being an awesome soap wrapper, James, my husband, works in operations. That means he manages all things operations related. My daughter, CFO, Chief Fun Officer keeps us balanced and makes sure we remember to have fun.
What tips can you offer to young entrepreneurs going into business?
Start where you are, find a mentor, don’t quit your day job, work hard, be money smart and read as much as possible.
Any advice and tips on how to take the first step to make your dreams a reality?
Find mentors in your industry, including finance and just go for it. Never underestimate your own power.
The best three words that best describe your products/business?
Clean, fresh, and modern.
