South African beauty entrepreneur, Katlego Tshabalala created Kash Cosmetics in 2018 with a mission to create luxury products for people and skin types of all variations. In the last two years, she’s built a proudly sustainable business that offers a cruelty-free product line, learnt some tough business lessons and inspired others to pursue their dreams. In this exclusive SCHICK interview, we dive deeper into Katlego’s journey as a businesswoman and more:
What are some of the challenges of working in the beauty industry that people tend not to be aware of?
It takes more than a good product to thrive in the beauty industry. Work ethics and customer service also play a huge role, and one of the biggest challenges is having to constantly put yourself out there no matter how good your product. The truth is that people need to hear about you or see your brand almost every day in order for them to want to try out the products.
What key business lessons did you learn relatively quickly?
That you get as much as you put in. It’s not how you start but how badly you want it!
Why was it important for you to develop a product line that’s cruelty-free?
We live in a day and age where consumers are very particular with the ingredients of the products they use in their everyday lives and I wanted to develop products that do as they say. I’m also very particular with what I put on my skin and don’t easily switch brands, so I wanted to create a line that gives people the comfort of knowing that they are using “clean beauty.”
How do you want your consumers to feel when using Kash Cosmetics products?
It’s the million-dollar question! I want them to boldly hold the product, look at it and ask it: Where have you been all my life, you beaut?! I want them to feel included and that they have finally found a luxury product that doesn’t require them to break the bank.
Can you talk us through your typical everyday beauty routine?
I wash, tone and moisturise, then my favourite part, makeup! I always go for a natural look; I love nudes, a soft brow and I prefer a nude matte lipstick over gloss. This is the look I go for 90% of the time.
What Kash Cosmetics product are you most passionate or excited about and why?
The Pro Bake Setting powders. I love how they set makeup for hours and that they are buildable and actually blend perfectly with the skin.
Solve a problem, know your why, don’t just do it for the cheque because the cheque isn’t always there
What are some of the achievements you’re most proud of, as a Black female business owner?
More than anything, hearing how I inspire other young women who would like to be in the beauty industry or other fields. I get so many messages and emails from women telling me just how much I inspire and push them to start their businesses.
In what ways do you hope to expand the business in the next few years?
I would love to add a skin care range; that’s definitely in our books.
What advice would you give to someone looking to start a skincare business in 2020?
Solve a problem, know your why, don’t just do it for the cheque because the cheque isn’t always there, but your passion will definitely take you far.
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