Aishwarya Nir Swarna, Women Entrepreneur & Founder of Global Beauty Secrets

Interview with Aishwarya Nir Swarna, Women Entrepreneur & Founder of Global Beauty Secrets

You renew yourself every day. Sometimes you’re successful, sometimes you’re not, but it’s the average that counts – Satya Nadella

With this quote embedded as the genesis of her thought process, Aishwarya is of the belief that by being consistent one can achieve results that will deliver in your favour.

Aishwarya graduated from Jai Hind College, Mumbai university in History and Political Science, and completed her Post-Graduation in Journalism from St Xavier’s College, Mumbai.

She did a further specialization with a course in Business Management from Xavier School of Management, Jamshedpur. 

Over the years she worked with the best in the business and learned thoroughly during her tenure. Her career trajectory began by interning with the Times of India post which she completed her MBA and got placement at CNBC Network 18.

Her dedication and sincerity helped elevate her to the position of a junior news producer in a short span of time.

She was instrumental in streamlining the lifestyle segment and the morning segment of the channel. After her stint at CNBC Network 18, she joined Aishwarya Pharmaceutical Group, a family-led business where she was encouraged to learn and manage the Human Resource of the company to their optimum. 

An entrepreneur in the making, Aishwarya was always preview to her grandmother’s beauty rituals at a relatively young age.

She developed an inclination towards beauty and self-care, which led her the idea of reviving these time-tested rituals in a bottle, with the intent of going back to the basics.

Her exposure was multi-fold when she began interacting with people from different cultures around the world.

This exposure germinated the seed to launch a brand that brings forth the best of beauty rituals from different cultures and regions.

Her vision came to fruition in 2018 with the launch of- Global Beauty Secrets, a wellness brand inspired by collective wisdom that seeks to revive beauty rituals with products enriched with high performance and natural ingredients.

In addition this, Aishwarya has also published a poetry book inspired by her childhood memories called Safran.

When she is not working, Aishwarya likes to read. She admires the works of Turkish author – Elif Shafak and is fascinated by how the writer merges the cultures with spirituality and religion; and empowers the voiceless to stand for themselves. 10 Minutes 38 Seconds in This strange world, is her favorite book from the author.

Besides reading, Aishwarya loves exploring various cultures and watch historical documentaries and dramas available on many OTT platforms today.

Can you tell us a little about your background and what inspired you to start Global Beauty Secrets?

Aishwarya Nir Swarna: I am delighted to share a brief glimpse into my journey and the inspiration behind my luxury clean beauty brand, Global Beauty Secrets.

My background is a unique blend of experiences in the media industry and exposure to the pharmaceutical world, which ultimately shaped my path towards creating a brand that celebrates beauty in its purest form.

From an early age, I was immersed in the world of media, witnessing firsthand the power of storytelling and its impact on people’s lives.

This exposure ignited my passion for communicating ideas and fostering connections with others. However, it was my family’s involvement in the pharmaceutical business that truly opened my eyes to the fascinating realm of skincare actives.

Growing up, I was fortunate to be surrounded by individuals who were deeply knowledgeable about various skincare ingredients and their potential benefits.

Through discussions and observations within my family, I developed a keen interest in understanding the science behind beauty and the transformative effects of high-quality, natural ingredients.

But it was my beloved grandmother who played a pivotal role in inspiring me to embark on this journey.

She instilled in me a profound appreciation for self-care rituals and the importance of nurturing oneself. Witnessing her dedication to her skincare routine and the joy she derived from it left an indelible mark on my heart.

My passion for beauty and self-care rituals was further enriched through my travels. Exploring different cultures and immersing myself in diverse wellness traditions allowed me to recognize the beauty practices that had been preserved and passed down through generations of women.

These encounters made me realize the wealth of knowledge and wisdom that existed beyond borders.

Combining my professional experiences, personal inclinations, and the lessons gathered from my travels, I felt compelled to create Global Beauty Secrets.

It became my mission to curate a brand that would celebrate the rich tapestry of global beauty traditions and offer clean, luxurious products inspired by these treasured practices.

Global Beauty Secrets is not merely a skincare brand; it is a tribute to the cultures and women who have diligently preserved and shared their self-care secrets.

With each meticulously crafted product, we aim to honour their heritage and empower individuals to embrace their unique beauty rituals.

Through Global Beauty Secrets, I aspire to unite individuals from all walks of life, inviting them to embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery, and to experience the enchanting beauty traditions that have stood the test of time.

What sets Global Beauty Secrets apart from other beauty brands in the market?

What truly sets Global Beauty Secrets apart from any other brand is our unwavering commitment to our four pillars, which form the foundation of everything we create.

These pillars not only differentiate us but also make our products exceptional and unparalleled in the beauty industry.

Unique and Potent Natural Ingredients: At Global Beauty Secrets, we believe in harnessing the power of nature to create effective and transformative skincare solutions.

Each and every one of our products is carefully formulated with interesting and potent natural or botanical ingredients.

We meticulously select ingredients that have been celebrated for their beneficial properties and blend them harmoniously to create clean formulations that deliver remarkable results.

Inspired by Global Cultures and Rituals: Our brand draws inspiration from the rich tapestry of global cultures and their time-honored beauty rituals.

We understand that beauty is diverse and transcends borders. By incorporating elements from various cultural traditions, we aim to create a universal beauty experience that celebrates and honors the wisdom of women worldwide.

Through our products, we invite you to embark on a journey of discovery and explore the beauty rituals that have been cherished for generations.

Legacy and History: Every Global Beauty Secrets product has a captivating legacy and history behind it. We delve deep into the cultural heritage of beauty practices, unearthing the secrets and stories that have been passed down through generations.

By infusing these narratives into our products, we not only offer you a luxurious skincare experience but also connect you to the fascinating stories and traditions that have shaped them. Our products are a testament to the enduring legacy of beauty and the power of heritage.

Mindfully Curated and Tested for Quality: We take great pride in the meticulous curation of our formulations.

Each product is carefully crafted with an unwavering commitment to quality, safety, and efficacy. We conduct rigorous testing to ensure that our products meet the highest standards, providing you with a truly exceptional skincare experience.

Our focus on clean beauty means that our formulations are free from harmful ingredients, allowing you to indulge in luxury without compromising on your well-being.

Global Beauty Secrets is a luxury beauty brand that seamlessly blends stories, secrets, and science. We celebrate the rich cultural tapestry of beauty traditions, infusing them with the latest scientific advancements to create products that are both indulgent and effective.

Our unique combination of heritage, natural ingredients, mindful curation, and clean formulations sets us apart, making Global Beauty Secrets a brand that empowers you to embrace your beauty rituals while experiencing the transformative power of luxury skincare.

Can you walk us through your product development process? How do you come up with new formulations and ingredients?

Aishwarya Nir Swarna: At Global Beauty Secrets, we take immense pride in the meticulous journey our products undertake, from conceptualization to the shelf.

Our rigorous standard operating procedures ensure that we create a truly unique and luxurious experience for our end users.

It all begins with a deep analysis of end user demand through surveys and research. Understanding our customers’ needs and desires is crucial in crafting products that resonate

with them. We then conduct comprehensive checks to verify the efficacy of our ingredients. We source certified and pure botanical extracts, powerful ingredients, and specialty actives to ensure that our formulations deliver exceptional results.

In-house trials and sample feedback surveys play a vital role in fine-tuning our products. We value the opinions and experiences of our customers, allowing us to make necessary modifications and improvements.

Furthermore, stability checks and adherence to FDA regulations guarantee the quality, longevity, and safety of our products.

Even after commercial production, our commitment to user safety remains unwavering. We diligently monitor the pH levels and stability of our control samples, following a comprehensive safety protocol. This ensures that our products maintain their effectiveness and provide a reliable experience.

We understand that packaging plays a significant role in enhancing the end user’s luxury experience. Our product packaging is thoughtfully designed to evoke a sense of indulgence and elevate the overall aesthetic.

Every single product undergoes meticulous checks, thorough testing, and stringent quality control measures.

We seal and pack each item with great care to ensure maximum efficacy and safety, right until it reaches the hands of our customers.

As part of our commitment to clean beauty, all our products are free from sulfates, parabens, phthalates, and mineral oil.

We prioritize the well-being of our customers and the environment, which is why we are proud to be cruelty-free.

At Global Beauty Secrets, our journey is driven by a dedication to user satisfaction, exceptional product quality, longevity, and safety.

We strive to create a beauty experience that goes beyond expectations, delivering the epitome of luxury and care to each and every individual who chooses our brand.

How do you ensure that your products are ethically sourced and sustainable?

Aishwarya Nir Swarna: At Global Beauty Secrets, we are deeply committed to ethical sourcing and sustainability throughout our product range.

We believe in transparency and making responsible choices to minimise our environmental impact. Here are some key aspects that highlight our commitment:

1. Ethical Ingredient Sourcing: We carefully select and source our ingredients from reputable vendors who adhere to ethical practices.

For instance, Shea butter, one of our key ingredients, is procured from vendors who prioritise fair-trade standards and ensure ethical sourcing.

While we are unable to disclose specific vendor information, we maintain certificates of analysis (COAs) to establish the purity of the Shea butter used.

2. Thoughtful Packaging: We prioritise sustainability in our packaging choices. We predominantly use glass packaging, as it is easily recyclable and reduces environmental waste.

Additionally, we have introduced aluminium refill packs for our best-selling products, providing eco-friendly alternatives to single-use packaging.

While a few of our SKUs use HDPE plastic bottles, we have opted for this type of plastic as it is widely recyclable.

3. Global Green Initiative: As part of our commitment to environmental stewardship, we have initiated the Global Green initiative.

This includes engaging in tree plantation drives to contribute to reforestation efforts. We also encourage customers to participate in recycling programs for our product empties, promoting responsible waste management.

4. Natural Ingredients and High Performance: We take pride in incorporating botanical extracts and sourcing ingredients directly from their countries of origin.

When selecting ingredients for our products, we prioritise both safety and performance, ensuring an elevated Global Beauty Secrets experience.

Our formulations are free from parabens, sulphates, mineral oil, and phthalates, and our preservation systems are either ECOCERT/COSMOS certified or use food-grade preservatives. All our products are FDA approved.

5. Quality Assurance: We have strict quality control measures in place to ensure the highest standards in our products. Prior to production, a Certificate of Analysis is created for each batch of raw materials.

We collect controlled samples from every batch, which are stored and monitored by a dedicated Quality Control (QC) team. Microbial growth testing and stability checks are performed to ensure longevity, quality, effectiveness, and safety of our products.

6. Synthetic Alternatives and Certifications: We strive to use synthetic alternatives to certain ingredients to ensure ethical practices and avoid sourcing from unethical supply chains.

For example, our Mica is synthetic, as natural mica sourcing practices can sometimes be unethical. Fragrances and colours used in our products are naturally derived whenever possible.

When natural options are not feasible, we opt for synthetic fragrances and perfumes that are FDA approved and used in minimal quantities.

We ensure that essential oils and fragrances procured from vendors are of the highest quality and request Certificates of Analysis from them.

By incorporating these practices into our brand ethos, we aim to provide luxurious and effective products while minimising our environmental footprint.

We are continuously exploring new ways to enhance sustainability and uphold our commitment to ethical sourcing and responsible beauty.

What has been your biggest challenge as a founder of a beauty brand, and how did you overcome it?

Aishwarya Nir Swarna: As a beauty brand founder, I have faced several challenges throughout my journey, but one of the biggest hurdles was establishing myself in a highly competitive industry.

Overcoming this challenge required determination, resilience, and strategic approaches. Here are some key strategies I employed to overcome these obstacles:

1. Creating a Feedback Loop: I recognized the importance of seeking feedback from trusted sources, including family and friends.

I actively engaged with them to gather insights on my decisions, actions, and overall brand direction. Their honest feedback allowed me to refine my strategies, address blind spots, and make more informed decisions.

2. Ensuring Quality and Great Customer Experience: From the very beginning, I prioritized the quality of my products and the overall customer experience. I implemented stringent

quality control measures, including testing and certifications, to deliver products that meet the highest standards.

Additionally, I established robust customer support systems and channels to address any concerns promptly and provide exceptional service.

3. Education and Product Development: To create great products, I understood the importance of continuous education in the beauty industry.

I invested time in staying updated with the latest trends, scientific advancements, and ingredient research.

This allowed me to develop innovative formulations that effectively addressed customer needs. Additionally, I focused on creating thoughtful packaging that not only conveyed the brand’s values but also provided a delightful unboxing experience.

4. Team Management and Motivation: Building and maintaining a motivated team was crucial to overcoming challenges.

I fostered a positive work environment that encouraged collaboration, creativity, and open communication.

Regular team meetings, training sessions, and recognition programs helped boost morale and ensure that everyone felt valued and motivated.

By fostering a sense of shared purpose and aligning individual goals with the brand’s vision, we were able to overcome obstacles together.

5. Staying Positive: Lastly, maintaining a positive mindset was key in navigating the ups and downs of entrepreneurship.

I cultivated resilience and embraced a growth mindset, viewing challenges as opportunities for learning and growth. Celebrating even small victories along

the way kept the team and myself motivated, fostering a sense of enthusiasm and determination to overcome any obstacles that came our way.

By combining these strategies, I was able to navigate the challenges of the beauty industry and establish a successful brand.

Each hurdle presented an opportunity for growth and improvement, and through perseverance, dedication, and a focus on delivering quality products and exceptional customer experiences, I overcame challenges and steered my brand towards success.

How important is diversity and inclusivity in the beauty industry, and how does Global Beauty Secrets strive to promote it?

Aishwarya Nir Swarna: Diversity and inclusivity are crucial in the skincare industry as they reflect the diverse range of individuals who use skincare products and their unique needs.

Global Beauty Secrets (GBS) recognizes the importance of embracing diversity and has been at the forefront of this theme, taking inspiration from and representing cultures and mindful wellness/beauty practices from around the world. Here are some ways in which GBS promotes diversity and inclusivity:

1. Authentic Cultural Collaborations: GBS believes in representing cultures authentically and soulfully. To achieve this, we collaborate with cultural experts from various communities.

For example, we have partnered with experts like Junko Sophie Kakizaki from Japan and Princess Mrinalika Bhanjdeo of Orissa to develop products and rituals that pay homage to their respective cultures.

By involving experts from these communities, we ensure that our products and practices are respectful, accurate, and representative.

2. Secret Sorceress Campaign: GBS recognizes the importance of inclusivity in representation, and to showcase this, we initiated the Secret Sorceress campaign. Through

a crowd-sourced campaign, we invited young and budding content creators from diverse backgrounds to participate in the selection of faces for our new Turkish Hammam range.

This initiative allowed us to involve individuals from different ethnicities, backgrounds, and experiences, ensuring a broader representation and promoting inclusivity in our brand.

3. Representation of Different Age Groups, Skin Types, Colors, and Concerns: GBS values the beauty and uniqueness of every individual, irrespective of age, skin type, color, or concern.

We are committed to representing and addressing the needs of a diverse range of individuals through our products.

Whether it’s developing skincare solutions for specific skin concerns or offering a wide range of shades in our makeup products, we aim to ensure that everyone feels seen, heard, and catered to.

By embracing diversity and inclusivity, GBS recognizes that beauty is not limited to one particular standard but rather a celebration of the rich tapestry of human experiences and identities.

We strive to create a skincare brand that is welcoming, representative, and inclusive, empowering individuals from all backgrounds to embrace their unique beauty and find products that resonate with their needs.

What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs who want to start their own beauty brand?

Aishwarya Nir Swarna: Starting a beauty brand can be an exciting and fulfilling journey for budding entrepreneurs. Here are a few pieces of advice to consider as you embark on this path:

First and foremost, consistency, sincerity, and positive intent should be the foundation of your brand. Strive for excellence and maintain a high level of quality in your product development. Authenticity and transparency in your brand’s values will resonate with customers and build trust.

Understanding and staying close to the needs of your community is crucial. Take the time to listen to your potential customers, engage with them, and conduct market research to identify gaps and opportunities. By addressing their specific concerns and desires, you can create products that truly meet their needs.

Passion plays a significant role in the success of any entrepreneurial endeavor. Love what you do and let your enthusiasm shine through your brand.

Your genuine passion will fuel your creativity, drive you through challenges, and inspire others to connect with your vision.

Building a strong network and seeking mentorship can be invaluable. Surround yourself with individuals who share your passion for the beauty industry and can offer guidance based on their own experiences. Learning from their successes and failures can help you navigate obstacles more effectively.

Flexibility and adaptability are essential traits for entrepreneurs. The beauty industry is dynamic and constantly evolving. Stay informed about the latest trends, technologies, and consumer preferences.

Be open to adjusting your strategies and product offerings to stay relevant and meet the changing demands of the market.

Lastly, perseverance is key. Entrepreneurship is a journey filled with ups and downs. Stay focused on your goals, maintain a positive mindset, and be prepared to put in the hard work.

Embrace challenges as learning opportunities and never lose sight of the impact you aim to make in the beauty industry.

Remember, starting a beauty brand is an exciting adventure. Embrace the process, stay true to your values, and let your passion guide you.

With consistency, sincere intent, a deep understanding of your community’s needs, and a genuine love for what you do, you can build a successful and impactful beauty brand.

How do you see Global Beauty Secrets evolving in the next five years?

Aishwarya Nir Swarna: In the next five years, I envision Global Beauty Secrets (GBS) to flourish as a highly respected and sought-after beauty brand.

With a deep-rooted love for the brand, my vision is to see GBS become a symbol of authenticity, innovation, and excellence in the beauty industry.

GBS will continue to be a pioneer in the clean beauty movement, setting new standards for quality and safety.

Our commitment to creating top-notch products will remain unwavering, as we continue to source the finest ingredients and employ rigorous testing processes to ensure efficacy and integrity.

Authenticity will be the cornerstone of GBS. We will continue to honor and celebrate diverse cultures, weaving their beauty rituals and practices into our products in a soulful and respectful manner.

By collaborating with cultural experts and communities, we will ensure that our brand remains a true representation of the beauty secrets and traditions from around the world.

I envision GBS as a brand that is loved and trusted by all, transcending geographical boundaries. Our products will be adored by beauty enthusiasts and experts alike for their exceptional quality, innovative formulations, and transformative results.

We will strive to create a global community of individuals who embrace and cherish their unique beauty, supported by GBS’s holistic approach to self-care.

As we continue to grow, GBS will expand its product range, offering a comprehensive selection of skincare, haircare, and wellness products that cater to a diverse range of needs and concerns.

Each product will be meticulously crafted, delivering both visible and long-lasting results while maintaining our commitment to clean beauty principles.

Beyond our product offerings, GBS will actively contribute to the beauty industry through education and advocacy.

We will share our knowledge and insights, empowering individuals to make informed choices about their skincare routines and overall well-being.

Ultimately, I see GBS as a beacon of inspiration, encouraging individuals to embrace their natural beauty and indulge in self-care rituals that go beyond the surface.

By staying true to our values, remaining authentic, and consistently delivering exceptional products, GBS will become a beloved global beauty brand that brings joy, confidence, and a touch of luxury to the lives of our customers.

Can you share with us any exciting new products or initiatives that Global Beauty Secrets has in the works?

Aishwarya Nir Swarna: Global Beauty Secrets (GBS) has embarked on several exciting initiatives and introduced new products to enhance our brand experience and make a positive impact.

One of our notable initiatives is Global Green, which reflects our commitment to environmental sustainability.

Under this initiative, we have implemented recycling programs and encouraged our customers to actively participate.

We promote the use of refillable packaging options to reduce waste and minimize our carbon footprint. By joining us in these efforts, our customers play a vital role in creating a more sustainable future.

Another initiative, Global Care, demonstrates our dedication to supporting communities in need. During the challenging times of the pandemic, we initiated various support measures to help those affected.

We extended our support to women-led businesses through collaborations and partnerships, offering them a platform to showcase their products and amplify their voices.

By uplifting and empowering these businesses, we contribute to the growth and success of women entrepreneurs.

Our Unitive Personal Care project is another noteworthy endeavor that focuses on holistic wellness practices.

Collaborating with women-based wellness leaders, we aim to create a community that fosters well-being and self-care. Through this project, we provide valuable insights and resources to inspire individuals to prioritize their physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

In terms of product launches, our Turkish Hammam Ritual has been a highlight. Inspired by the luxurious traditions of the Turkish bath, this range offers an indulgent and transformative experience.

Products such as the Turkish Rhassoul Mineral Mud and Turkish Watermelon and Argan Oil Day Cream with SPF 40++ have been introduced or reformulated to deliver exceptional results while incorporating natural and high-performance ingredients. These products embody the essence of GBS, merging cultural traditions with cutting-edge formulations.

With every new product and initiative, GBS remains dedicated to offering unique, effective, and authentic beauty solutions.

We continually strive to exceed our customers’ expectations and contribute positively to society and the environment.

By embracing innovation, sustainability, and collaboration, GBS aims to inspire individuals to embrace their beauty, practice self-care, and experience the transformative power of our products.

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