Reshaping beauty landscape, making beauty more accessible, personalised & immersive: Shahnaz Husain

Her style of creating a brand without publicity had become a part of the Harvard Business School Education programme some time ago and now she herself has become a part of the curriculum at the prestigious Harvard University, USA, in their "Creating Emerging Market" project.

- RITWIK MUKHERJEE

She has been a pioneer in the herbal beauty and wellness industry in India since nearly five decades now.

Shahnaz Husain, Chairperson & Managing Director of the Shahnaz Husain Group of companies, has seen the beauty and wellness business evolve and grow in India virtually from the scratch.

Speaking to The Statesman, Husain delved at length on wide-ranging issues - from the evolution of the wellness business, rise and growth of her brand, the challenges faced - to adoption of technology and the way forward, among others.

Excerpts:

Q: How have you seen the ayurvedic beauty care business evolve over the years (generally and about your organisation)?

A: Ayurvedic skincare in modern-day application and deployment of its principles within the formulation is all about harnessing natural ingredients, making it relevant to personalised demands that resonate with the consumers on individual level.

Today we are looking at formulations that are blended with modern science, a fusion of potent solutions addressing diverse skin concerns that promote long-term skin health.

I have always been persistent on emphasising the need of Ayurveda that is relevant in providing treatment and solutions, not just the surface coverup; at the same time I have always highlighted the fact that using chemical-based products are harmful to the system with adverse effects.

It is all about formulations comprising herbs, flowers, essential oils and botanical extracts to nourish and rejuvenate the skin.

The allure of Ayurvedic skincare lies in its gentle and holistic alternative to the harsh chemicals and synthetic ingredients commonly found in mainstream beauty products.

Now when we look at the global market in relation to Ayurvedic skincare then we see a significant growth showcasing compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16.14% from 2021 to 2026.