Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Ovsanna Mkrtumyan. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Ovsanna, appreciate you joining us today. Alright, so you had your idea and then what happened? Can you walk us through the story of how you went from just an idea to executing on the idea
Zatik Naturals started as a simple idea—one rooted in a passion for health, nature, and the belief that personal care products should be as pure as the food we eat. My husband, Garik, had spent years working in the pharmaceutical industry, and during that time, he became deeply aware of how synthetic ingredients could have both powerful and harmful effects. We often talked about how there had to be a better way—a way to create effective products using the incredible power of plants without the unnecessary chemicals.
From an Idea to Our First Batch
Like many businesses, Zatik started in our garage. I remember those early days when Garik would read herbal books, scientific articles, and Ayurveda to understand how to only use nature to come up with shelf stable skin products that are not only safe but effective. Garik, with his background in chemistry, experimented with formulations, while I focused on understanding what people actually wanted from their personal care routines. We spent hours blending ingredients, testing them on ourselves, and adjusting the formulas.
In 2005, after months of trial and error, we had our first set of products. The big question was—would people love them as much as we did?
Taking Zatik to Farmers’ Markets
The best way to find out? Farmers’ markets.
Setting up a booth at our local farmers’ market was both exciting and terrifying. We weren’t just selling a product; we were sharing a vision—clean, organic, and sustainable self-care.
At first, sales were slow. People would stop by, ask questions, and walk away. But over time, something magical happened—they started coming back. Customers who had tried our products returned to tell us how much they loved them. Some brought their friends; others wanted to know when we’d have more products.
These conversations were invaluable. Farmers’ markets weren’t just about selling; they were about learning. We listened to customers’ feedback and tweaked our formulas based on what people wanted—lighter textures, new scents, better absorption. Every weekend at the market was like a mini-focus group, helping us refine our products before moving into retail.
From the Market to Store Shelves
After about a year of selling at farmers’ markets, we realized something—people were asking where they could buy Zatik outside of the market. That was when we knew we were ready for the next step: retail.
The transition wasn’t easy. We had to learn everything—how to pitch to stores, how to design professional packaging, how to navigate regulations. I handled the business side—marketing, customer service, branding, and accounting, while Garik continued developing and perfecting the formulas.
We started small, approaching local health stores, bringing samples, and sharing our farmers’ market success stories. It took persistence, but one by one, stores began carrying our products.
Then came the big break—larger retailers like Whole Foods and Sprouts saw the growing demand for clean, organic beauty products and took a chance on us. That moment—seeing our products on store shelves—was a mix of pride, excitement, and disbelief.
Staying True to Our Roots
Even though Zatik has grown beyond the farmers’ market, we never lost sight of what made us different. Our products are still handcrafted in Glendale, California, using fresh, raw botanicals from USDA-certified organic farms. We are committed to sustainable packaging and keeping our formulas clean, effective, and eco-friendly.
Looking back, it’s amazing to think that what started as an experiment in our garage turned into a brand that people trust and love. If there’s one thing I’ve learned through this journey, it’s that listening to your customers, staying true to your mission, and taking things one step at a time can turn an idea into something real.
Zatik Naturals is more than just a business to us—it’s a reflection of our values, our journey, and the belief that nature has everything we need to thrive.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
Meet Ovsanna Mktumyan: The Heart Behind Zatik Naturals
I’m Ovsanna Mktumyan, co-founder of Zatik Naturals, and my journey into the natural beauty and wellness industry is deeply personal. It wasn’t something I planned from the start—it evolved from a passion for holistic health, sustainability, and clean living, and a deep desire to get away from the corporate world. I wanted to build something meaningful, something that aligned with my values and allowed me to help people live healthier lives while also making a positive impact on the planet.
I come from a background where natural remedies were a way of life. Growing up, I was surrounded by generations of women who relied on herbs, oils, and plant-based remedies for self-care. This deep respect for nature’s healing properties stayed with me as I pursued my own path.
However, the turning point came when my husband, Garik, who worked in the pharmaceutical industry, started questioning the effects of synthetic chemicals found in everyday products. We realized that so many personal care products on the market—even those labeled as ‘natural’—contained harsh chemicals, synthetic fragrances, and preservatives. We knew there had to be a better way to create products that were not only safe but also effective and truly clean. That’s when Zatik Naturals was born.
What We Do at Zatik Naturals
At Zatik, we create organic, sustainable, and science-backed skincare, haircare, and wellness products that harness the power of botanicals, co2 extracts, and superfoods. Every product is formulated with the philosophy that nature provides everything we need for healthy, radiant skin and hair—we just have to use it wisely.
Our products are:
-Handcrafted in small batches
-Made with USDA-certified organic ingredients
-Free from synthetic chemicals, parabens, sulfates, and artificial fragrances
-Packaged using eco-friendly and sustainable materials
-Powered by fresh, raw botanicals sourced from organic farms
What Problems We Solve
We understand that what you put on your skin matters as much as what you eat. Many people struggle with sensitive skin, allergies, dryness, acne, or premature aging, and they don’t realize that the chemicals in their skincare could be making things worse. Our mission is to create products that work harmoniously with your body, not against it.
Our formulations are carefully designed to be gentle yet effective, catering to individuals looking for safe, plant-based alternatives that support both their skin health and overall well-being.
What Sets Zatik Apart
What makes Zatik different is that we are not just another “natural” beauty brand—we are deeply rooted in science, sustainability, and transparency. Here’s what truly sets us apart:
– Fresh, Raw Ingredients: We don’t just use any plant extracts; we use the freshest, cold-pressed and CO2 extracts and botanicals that retain their full potency.
-Science Meets Nature – We go beyond traditional herbal formulas by integrating adaptogens and superfoods to enhance skin and hair health.
-Sustainability at Our Core – Our commitment to the planet is unwavering. We use biodegradable packaging, recyclable glass, and minimal waste production practices to ensure our products are as eco-friendly as possible.
-A Personal Touch – Zatik was built on the trust and feedback of our customers. From our early days at farmers’ markets to now being on store shelves, we have always been hands-on, listening, and evolving.
What I’m Most Proud Of
One of my greatest joys is seeing how Zatik has changed people’s lives. Whether it’s someone who finally found a gentle skincare solution for their sensitive skin, a customer who loves that we offer vegan and cruelty-free beauty, or a new mom who trusts our organic baby-friendly formulations, every story reminds me why we started this journey. Also, during this growing process we learned the lack of organic cosmetic raw materials, which pushed us to develop our own to deliver USDA certified organic water-based skin care to the world that is also shelf-stable.
I’m also incredibly proud of how we have stayed true to our values. Even as we grow, we have never compromised on quality, integrity, or sustainability. Every product is made with the same level of care and dedication as when we first started.
What I Want People to Know About Zatik Naturals
Zatik is more than just a brand—it’s a movement toward clean, conscious beauty. When you choose our products, you’re not just choosing safe, effective skincare; you’re supporting a brand that cares about your health, the environment, and ethical business practices.
To those who are new to Zatik, I invite you to experience the power of nature-driven beauty. And to those who have been with us since the beginning—thank you for believing in us.
This journey has been incredible, and I can’t wait to continue growing, innovating, and bringing you the best of nature and science—always with love, transparency, and sustainability in mind.
Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?
When We Had to Pivot: A Breakthrough in Organic Skincare
In any business, especially in the beauty and wellness industry, challenges arise that force you to adapt, innovate, or walk away. One of our biggest pivots at Zatik Naturals happened in 2015, when we faced a fundamental problem with our skincare formulations.
The Organic Dilemma: When Nature Doesn’t Always Look or Smell “Perfect”
From the very beginning, we committed to using 100% organic, plant-based ingredients. However, one of the biggest challenges of truly organic skincare is that it changes over time—natural ingredients oxidize, shift in color, and even take on different scents depending on environmental factors like temperature and humidity.
By 2015, we started receiving customer feedback that our skincare products, while effective, didn’t have the same stability and consistency as conventional brands. Some formulas changed color, others had variations in scent, and a few were even separating in the bottle.
We were at a crossroads.
Do we discontinue our organic skincare line and conform to industry standards by adding synthetic stabilizers?
Or do we find a way to make truly organic skincare as stable and effective as conventional products—without compromising on ingredients?
We weren’t ready to give up, and thanks to my brilliant husband, Garik, we didn’t have to.
The Breakthrough: A USDA-Certified Organic Emulsifier and Preservative
Garik, being the scientist and innovator that he is, started experimenting with natural alternatives to synthetic emulsifiers and preservatives. Emulsifiers are what keep oil and water mixed together, while preservatives prevent microbial growth and oxidation.
After countless trials and failures, he discovered that MCT oil derived from organic coconut had potential as an emulsifier. He worked tirelessly, breaking down its molecular structure and trying to stabilize it into an ingredient that could work in organic formulations.
The first experiment failed. The formula didn’t emulsify as expected. But in that failure, Garik made another discovery—the failed product acted as a natural preservative instead!
This led him to two groundbreaking innovations:
Xylityl Cocoate (GiO™ -105-EMULS) – A USDA-certified organic emulsifier that allows cosmetic companies to create stable, water-based organic skincare without synthetic chemicals.
Xylityl Caprate/Caprylate (GiO™ -103) – An organic preservative that keeps formulas fresh, eliminating the need for synthetic or potentially harmful preservatives.
The Bigger Picture: A Win for the Organic Beauty Industry
Garik’s discoveries didn’t just save Zatik Naturals—they pushed the entire industry forward. He went on to patent both ingredients, and today, they are available for other cosmetic companies that want to make USDA-certified organic, water-based skin and body care products.
This pivot was more than just about solving a problem—it was about leading the way for cleaner, safer, and more sustainable beauty solutions. We stayed true to our mission, and in doing so, we contributed to a shift in the organic cosmetics industry as a whole.
Now, every time I see a customer using our organic skincare, knowing that the science behind it is revolutionary, I am reminded that challenges are just opportunities in disguise. And when you have someone as brilliant as Garik on your team, anything is possible. 😊
Can you open up about how you funded your business?
Funding Our Dream: Building Zatik While Raising a Family
Starting a business is one thing, but starting a business while raising three kids is an entirely different challenge. When Garik and I founded Zatik Naturals, we weren’t just entrepreneurs—we were also full-time parents, balancing the responsibilities of our growing family while working corporate jobs to fund our dream.
Balancing Full-Time Corporate Jobs, Parenthood, and Zatik
Unlike many startups that begin with outside investors or loans, we decided to fund Zatik entirely on our own. Both Garik and I worked full-time corporate jobs while slowly building our business from the ground up.
Garik, with his background in chemistry and pharmaceuticals, continued working his corporate job during the day while spending nights experimenting with formulas.
I handled everything from branding to logistics while also working a full-time corporate job—and, of course, managing life at home with our three children.
Our days were structured around survival and efficiency.
Mornings and afternoons were dedicated to work and taking care of the kids—getting them ready, school drop-offs, homework, meals, bedtime routines.
Evenings were spent working on Zatik—perfecting formulations, designing labels, and fulfilling orders while making sure the kids had everything they needed.
Weekends were for selling at farmers’ markets, often with our kids in tow, watching their parents hustle and build something meaningful.
At times, it was overwhelming. There were nights where I would be answering emails with a baby in one arm and stirring dinner on the stove with the other. Garik would often put the kids to bed, then head straight to his mini-lab to continue his research.
Despite the chaos, we were determined to create something lasting—for ourselves and for our children.
The Turning Point: When We Could Finally Go Full-Time
By 2013, after years of relentless effort, we finally got our big break—TJ Maxx decided to place recurring monthly orders of our products.
This was the life-changing moment that allowed us to:
Leave our corporate jobs and dedicate ourselves to Zatik full-time
Scale production and meet growing demand
Expand into USA and European markets
Spend more time with our children while also growing the business
That consistent monthly revenue from TJ Maxx gave us the financial security we needed to take that leap of faith. It allowed us to focus on innovation, research, and sustainability while still being present for our family.
The Lessons We Learned
You don’t have to choose between family and dreams – It won’t be easy, but if you are truly passionate, you will find the time, energy, and strength to do both.
Patience is key – Building a business while raising kids and working full-time corporate jobs took time, but every step forward was worth it.
Support is everything – Garik and I leaned on each other, but we also taught our children the value of hard work, resilience, and believing in something bigger.
Looking Back
When I see Zatik Naturals on store shelves across the U.S. and Europe, I think about those early days—working late nights, attending farmers’ markets with our kids, making sacrifices to fund our dream.
We didn’t have millions in startup capital. What we had was determination, a vision, and a deep belief in creating something truly organic, safe, and effective—not just for our customers but for our own children and future generations.
Our story is proof that you don’t have to choose between being a parent and being an entrepreneur—you can do both. It takes sacrifice, late nights, and a lot of love, but if you stay committed, you can turn even the smallest dream into something incredible.
And for that, I wouldn’t change a thing. ❤️
Contact Info:
- Website: https://zatiknaturals.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/zatiknaturals
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/zatiknaturals
- Linkedin: https://linkedin.com/zatiknaturals
- Twitter: https://x.com/zatiknaturals
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@zatiknaturals1500
