We recently connected with Gabriel De Santino and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Gabriel , thanks for joining us today. Any thoughts around creating more inclusive workplaces?

My personal experience as a gay Latino in the beauty industry ignited a passion for creating a workplace where everyone feels valued and respected. Facing discrimination firsthand, I witnessed the negative impact of exclusion on both individuals and businesses. I believe diversity is essential for fostering innovation, creativity, and overall company success. It’s about more than just hiring people from different backgrounds; it’s about cultivating an inclusive environment where everyone can contribute their unique perspectives. Gabriel Cosmetics Inc. is proud to be a member of the NGLCC, demonstrating our commitment to the LGBTQ+ community and enabling us to support a broader network of diverse businesses.

Gabriel , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

As a child, I grew up observing my grandmother making homeopathic cosmetics from seaweed, kelp, and herbs that I helped her gather at her home on the coast of Mexico. As a naturopath and herbalist, my grandmother was knowledgeable of the many healing and revitalizing properties of ocean plant life. As I became an entrepreneur and began developing products, I based my grandmother’s wisdom for healthy alternatives as the foundation and inspiration for my brand.
My brand is a cohesive lifestyle brand, combining GABRIELCosmetics and skincare under its umbrella. These two categories represent the ethos of the brand, offering consumers natural, vegan, gluten-free, and cruelty free cosmetics and skincare designed to fit their lifestyle. With a strong connection to the ocean’s botanicals, GABRIEL draws inspiration from nature and by utilizing elements from both land and sea provides an unparalleled formula to Mistake Proof Beauty.
As a national leader in the natural, vegan, gluten-free and cruelty free cosmetics industry, Gabriel Cosmetics, Inc. has a prestige and diverse portfolio. All products are made from 100% natural ingredients with no synthetic chemicals or animal by-product. Their makeup lines, Gabriel Cosmetics and Zuzu Luxe offer both bold and classic color palettes, smooth application, and a variety of essentials including brushes, cosmetic wipes, and nail polish. Gabriel Skincare provides a wide range of skin health products custom to the individual’s needs. Clean Kids Naturally is a complete line of children’s natural personal care products including shampoo, conditioner, soap, and bubble bath. 

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

As a beauty brand, the COVID-19 pandemic presented unprecedented challenges. The closure of brick-and-mortar stores coincided with a dramatic decline in makeup usage as people retreated indoors. To navigate this turbulent landscape, we pivoted our strategy. By offering personalized Zoom consultations with our expert artists, we maintained a direct connection with our customers, assisting with color selection and inspiring creativity. We encouraged experimentation and self-expression, transforming makeup routines into enjoyable at-home experiences. Simultaneously, we amplified our skincare offerings, emphasizing the importance of holistic beauty during these stressful times. This multifaceted approach not only preserved our customer base but also deepened our brand loyalty.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

Our brand’s foundation rests upon a legacy of consistency and authenticity, rooted in my grandmother’s holistic approach to skincare. Her time-honored practices serve as the cornerstone of our formulations, which we continually refine as scientific understanding evolves. By prioritizing clean, efficacious ingredients and maintaining unwavering transparency in our sourcing and production processes, backed by robust certifications, we’ve cultivated a loyal following. Our commitment to personal connection is evident in my direct engagement with customers through email calls and store visits, ensuring that every voice is heard and valued. This human touch, combined with our steadfast dedication to purity, has positioned us as a trusted and beloved brand in the beauty industry.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://gabrielcosmeticsinc.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gabrielcosmetic/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gabrielcosmetic