Fragrant treats

One generally takes great care to see what they wear, eat or drink but they tend to not pay much attention to their skincare regimen and body cleansing routine. The ingredients that go into the products used can go a long way towards making a difference. With this very thought in mind, Archanna Gaarg conceptualised her start-up ‘I Am Home Made’, which she says, is a way of life that allows one to say no to chemical-based cosmetics and products.

“It is an entire range comprising natural and vegetarian skin and body treats launched in Bengaluru in August this year. A concoction of essential oils, milk, unrefined butters, fruit, flower and vegetable extracts are the core ingredients used in the items, keeping in mind the environment friendly factor as well. These are SLS & SLES free, chemicals that lather easily and leave the skin dry. So one can make these a part of their daily cleansing routine,” says Archanna.

‘I Am Home Made’ has two product ranges— ‘Cleopatra’ and ‘Senorita’. The former has fragrant head to toe skin care products for women including hair spa, hair souffle, one-minute facial packs like ‘red velvet’ and ‘green chai’, facial creams, face serum, lip scrubs, lip balms, underarm whitewash, heel scrubs, body polishes and a variety of soaps.

“For instance, the hair spa is an amalgamation of 18 Indian herbs, gently cooked and simmered over 21 days. Mixed with two tbsp milk and applied on the scalp and hair shaft leaves the hair feeling much smoother. The hair souffle keeps the hair hydrated and nourished from cuticle to end. The red velvet (comprising beetroot, hibiscus, pomegranate) is a quick facial for working women who want to transform their look and get that radiance on their skin before an unexpected event,” explains Archanna.

Meanwhile, the ‘Senorita’ range has black and white anti-tanning face masks, bath bombs and bath salts for men as well as nappy rash soothers and milk soaps for kids that have also been received well by people. Archanna highlights that all their products are diligently designed by the R&D team and are also not tested on animals. “To cater to vegans, we prepare a range of products that are vegan and address various skin concerns.” She adds that their merchandise is quite affordable and has been liked by working women. They even customise gifts for the festive season and deliver products globally.

“The response has been good and we plan to open our stores in various cities including Bengaluru. An online store is also something being planned,” says Archanna. At present, one can visit their Facebook page ‘I am handcrafted’ and place orders.