We were lucky to catch up with Olajumoke Otunubi’ recently and have shared our conversation below.

Olajumoke , thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. How did you come up with the idea for your business?

As I reflect on my journey, I recall how my mother instilled in me the importance of being intentional about the products we use on our skin. Coconut oil and shea butter were our trusted allies for moisturizing. However, when I entered college and puberty hit me hard, acne became an unwelcome guest. It was during that time that my teacher, Mr. Omoihke, recommended a skincare product specifically designed to treat acne. Being in a boarding school, I couldn’t obtain it myself, so I entrusted him with the money to purchase it on my behalf. The next day, he handed me the product, and as soon as I reached my hostel, I began using it diligently. The results were remarkable, and my skin started to improve.

Subsequently, I experimented with various products, only to find that some caused burning sensations or rashes. My mother’s words echoed in my mind, reminding me to be cautious about the products I used, as I cherished my melanin and didn’t want it bleached away. Embracing my skin tone, I made a conscious decision never to succumb to societal pressures or conform to their narrow standards of beauty. Instead, I aimed to enhance my skin’s health and empower others to do the same, using natural products that would improve their skin without compromising their self-confidence.

At the tender age of fifteen, I encountered a boyfriend who suggested I lighten my skin, leaving me offended and steadfast in my conviction to embrace my natural beauty. Even in university, a friend relayed the comments of a potential suitor who believed I would be more attractive if I lightened my skin. My unwavering love for my skin tone and disregard for society’s opinions remained unshaken. I desired not only to look my best but also to assist others in doing so.

Throughout my personal journey, I faced numerous challenges, including eczema, acne, whiteheads, and blackheads. Overcoming these hurdles required dedication, consistency, and, above all, using the right products. I realized that helping others with similar skin issues would begin with my own transformation. Incorporating essential oils and carrier oils into my skincare routine before the Covid-19 lockdown proved immensely beneficial for my skin health. However, during the lockdown, I resorted to using a facial cleanser that caused burning sensations and a cream (a tropical steroid or antifungal cream readily available in the Nigerian market). It is essential to note that I educate my customers and audience about the dangers of using such products without a doctor’s prescription or incorporating them into their skincare routine.

Displeased with the ineffective products I had tried, I conducted extensive research and discovered that African shea butter was highly effective in reducing stretch marks. Though breakouts on my face and body persisted, I remained resilient. When the lockdown finally lifted, I resolved to establish my own business, fueled by the desire to help myself and others. Deepening my knowledge about essential oils and carrier oils, I recognized their profound benefits for skin and overall wellness. Additionally, I wanted people to experience the therapeutic effects of essential oils, inspired by my father’s use of castor oil, which had proven incredibly effective. Sharing this insight with a friend, we brainstormed together, determined to create products of exceptional quality and efficacy.

Navigating the logistics, I decided to start with a select range of ten products: tea tree oil, lavender oil, licorice oil, castor oil, rose water, a natural facial cleanser (rose water), clay mask (essential for exfoliation), coconut oil, jojoba seed oil, castor oil, and carrot seed oil. To establish a strong brand identity, I enlisted the help of a graphic designer friend, engaging in numerous meetings to articulate the business’s vision clearly. We had multiple meetings to ensure a clear vision for the business, culminating in the birth of Love&lightskincareandaromatherapy—a name that had been divinely inspired. To gather the necessary funds, I saved diligently and received financial support from my brother and sister.

Once I received the products, I tested them on myself and shared them with some friends, all of whom provided positive feedback. Witnessing the remarkable improvement in my own skin made it easy for me to confidently recommend my products to others

Olajumoke , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

Greetings, I’m Otunubi Olajumoke Aminat, also known as bellajhomzh. Recently, I completed my studies in crop management at the Federal University of Technology, Akure. As a Nigerian, I hold a deep love for God, and my passions lie in skincare, health and wellness, and fashion.

My journey into the skincare and aromatherapy industry was driven by personal experiences of struggling with skin problems in a society that often shames individuals for having healthy skin. The media relentlessly promotes a Westernized standard of beauty, equating it with a whitewashed complexion. Determined to challenge this narrative, I founded Love&light Skincare and Aromatherapy. Our mission is to provide products that empower you to embrace your natural beauty.

At Love&light, we offer pure and natural essential and carrier oils, including tea tree oil, jojoba seed oil, carrot seed oil, castor oil, lavender essential oil, coconut oil, licorice oil, almond oil, luminous body oil, luminous face oil, rosewater, and face masks. Our product range addresses various skincare concerns such as acne, eczema, sunburn, hyperpigmentation, skin brightening, and dark spot removal.

What sets Love&light apart is its simplicity, elegance, therapeutic properties, educational approach, and people-centered philosophy. We take pride in how far our brand has come, recognizing that there is still room for growth. Witnessing the happiness and satisfaction of our customers with their skin fills me with gratitude towards God.

I want my audience to understand that Love&light is not just a skincare and aromatherapy brand; it is a platform dedicated to helping individuals discover the beauty within themselves. We firmly believe that true beauty radiates from the inside out, and we are here to guide and support everyone on their unique journey to embracing their inherent beauty.

What’s been the best source of new clients for you?

Facebook, Facebook marketplace and Facebook groups and jiji marketplace. I am able to use my business Facebook page to reach potential customers and it converts well, the secret lies in creating good content and also joining Facebook groups depending on your location where you can reach potential customers. I sometimes get customers from instagram too. I get a lot of customers from WhatsApp too and my clients refer me too.

Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?

Yes, I attended a lot of classes and I read books on finances too. I have had firsthand experience with my parent’s business too

Contact Info:

• Instagram: Loveandlightskincare
• Facebook: Loveandlightskincare
• Twitter: Lovelightskinc1

Image Credits
Myself