Image features raw ingredients, preparations for Babs Bodycare
Since pretty much the whole team at Finders Keepers have been (mostly unsuccessfully) testing a range of different “natural” deodorants of late, we were pretty chuffed when we first heard Babs Bodycare‘s story during Melbourne market applications. Read on to discover why things in the FK office are about to get a whole lot sweeter after a visit to Babs’ debut stall at our Melbourne market, on this weekend!
Tell us a little about yourself and how you came to begin your label.
Babs Bodycare started with my own search for an effective natural deodorant. After trying many different deodorants and antiperspirants, from conventional sprays to herbal roll ons, I found they just didn’t work for me. I couldn’t find one that could help combat my B.O. which didn’t leave a thick film or residue on my skin. As I looked more closely at the ingredient lists of these products I was really shocked at how many claimed to be natural and organic yet contained “safe chemicals”. I started to make my own – which worked a treat!
As for the name, ‘Babs’ (my nickname) came about due to my being a little on the stinky side when it came to perspiring due to my love of garlic and spices.
My friends thought the aroma surrounding that general area reminded them of the late night Middle Eastern street food, the kebab. 😉 My wonderful family and friends tested and loved the deodorant and so began Babs Bodycare.
Image features Body Balm – created and mixed by Babs Bodycare
Who inspires you and your creative process?
Inspiration at first came mainly from problem solving for me. After that I wanted to create effective products using sustainable, pure ingredients for those who were mindful of what they were using on their skin and concern for the environment. We use glass bottles and jars, food grade, raw, natural ingredients that heal and nourish the skin without any toxic ingredients, with a focus on reducing our impact on the environment.
Our amazing customers motivate and inspire me daily. I love hearing the wonderful feedback from them. It’s fantastic to hear they love Babs as much as I do. I have also been incredibly blessed to find a group of amazing, talented makers who are very passionate about what they do.
I am inspired everyday by their support, willingness to help, experience and encouragement.
Tell us something exciting that you have planned for Babs Bodycare this year.
We are launching a new product at Melbourne Finders Keepers – this one is for the guys! The products we create are products that we use daily, my husband is my main ‘guinea pig’ so while our products are formulated for women we find men are loving them too, (Matt, my husband uses almost everything daily!) but this will be something just for the men!
I’m also looking into a collaboration – I love the idea of working with someone to share ideas and passion to create a new product or design. That will be exciting.
Image features Body Oil – created and handmade in Melbourne by Babs Bodycare
Image features Body Oil – created and handmade in Melbourne by Babs Bodycare
Name one resource that your label could not live without.
Botanical oils. These come from seeds, nuts, fruits, vegetables and leaves and flowers. Plant oils are so vital for healthy, glowing skin and I’m always amazed at their unique properties.
Tell us about your favourite product from your collection.
I have to say I couldn’t live without our original and first product, the Tea Tree Deodorant. It sounds a little cliché but it has totally changed my life.
My favourite product would have to be the Body Oil. It is such a beautiful nourishing blend of oils! It seems to be everyone else’s favourite too.
babsbodycare.com.au
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Image features Deodorant Tea Tree – created and handmade in Melbourne by Babs Bodycare