Today we’d like to introduce you to Alexus Edmonds

Alexus, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?

I’m the oldest child, with one sister, and we grew up in the Chicago suburbs. Our parents instilled values of faith in God, education, hard work, generosity, and entrepreneurship in us. We were fortunate to explore our interests in science, the arts, travel, and culture, which helped shape the path I’ve taken.

I pursued a Bachelor’s in Neuroscience and later earned a Master’s in Medical Science, but my love for hair care, which started in childhood, never faded. During the pandemic, I began experimenting with hair care formulations in my kitchen, using my science background to create products that are gentle for all. My sister Phallon gave me the push I needed to take it to the next level, and that’s how Made Gentle was born.

Outside of work, I’m a mom to a wonderful 2-year-old, and I love spending time with her. In my free time, I enjoy traveling, shopping, coffee, and quality time with my family. These personal experiences keep me grounded and inspire my work with Made Gentle.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?

My journey has definitely had its twists and turns, but I’ve always embraced those experiences as opportunities. Coming from a background in Neuroscience and Medical Science has really shaped how I approach the hair care industry. My education has given me a unique perspective, allowing me to create my own formulations with a strong scientific foundation.

Life events, like going through a divorce and becoming a single mother, have certainly added some complexity to my journey, but they’ve also fueled my drive. My 2-year-old daughter inspires me every day to push forward and pursue my dreams. Balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship has been a wild ride, but it’s taught me to be adaptable and innovative. Through it all, I’ve grown more resilient and have learned to appreciate the journey, finding joy in both the challenges and the victories.

We’ve been impressed with Made Gentle, LLC, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?

Made Gentle was born during the global pandemic. While in quarantine, I had time to reflect on my lifelong passion for hair care and how I could merge that with my science background. I began formulating products in my kitchen that were gentle on all hair types, but my real inspiration came from a personal place. My maternal grandmother battled Her2 Positive Breast Cancer twice, in 2010 and 2015, and losing her hair both times took a toll on her confidence. Watching her go through that gave me a strong desire to create products that could help people in similar situations feel empowered and confident in their crowns.

That’s why I pursued a Cosmetic Formulator Certification—to ensure my products are scientifically researched and safe for sensitive scalps. Made Gentle officially launched in March 2023, and now, we’re available at madegentle.com, walmart.com, and amazon.com. We’ve also had the honor of participating in events like Beautycon LA and the Essence Festival in NOLA, and our products are featured in hair salons and small boutiques within the Chicago Greater Area.

Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?

Made Gentle was born during the global pandemic. While in quarantine, I had time to reflect on my lifelong passion for hair care and how I could merge that with my science background. I began formulating products in my kitchen that were gentle on all hair types, but my real inspiration came from a personal place. My maternal grandmother battled Her2 Positive Breast Cancer twice, in 2010 and 2015, and losing her hair both times took a toll on her confidence. Watching her go through that gave me a strong desire to create products that could help people in similar situations feel empowered and confident in their crowns.

That’s why I pursued a Cosmetic Formulator Certification—to ensure my products are scientifically researched and safe for sensitive scalps. Made Gentle officially launched in March 2023, and now, we’re available at madegentle.com, walmart.com, and amazon.com. We’ve also had the honor of participating in events like Beautycon LA and the Essence Festival in NOLA, and our products are featured in hair salons and small boutiques within the Chicago Greater Area.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://madegentle.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/madegentlebeauty/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/madegentle

Image Credits

J Lauryn Photography www.jlaurynphotography.com