Grew up in the Eastern Cape, and later on went to Cape Town for her tertiary education, Lihle Magwambe was born and still residing in Johannesburg. In 2019 she registered her own company named Glowa Aesthetics, and started creating the product based on the ingredients that worked on her skin.
What made you choose to go for this product? And what makes your skin care product stand out? “What made me choose this product is that I’ve always struggled with acne growing up which really affected my confidence, then I became obsessed with my skin and tried different things on my skin, then I decided to create my own product with organic natural ingredients that helped me clear up my skin. “I also have sensitive skin, so over the years I did my research to ensure that the products work for all skin types. With this product my intention is to assist people who have the same problem as me because I know exactly how it feels.
“What makes my product stand out is that it’s handmade and are enriched with Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide) and Liquorice Extract. The other thing is that I’m not only focused on facial skin care, I cater for all people’s needs, from face to lips to body (Uneven skin tone; dark inner thighs, dark knees, armpits, neck and elbows) to feminine hygiene”.
In starting, what were your challenges and how did you overcome them? “Challenges I faced was mainly procrastination and doubt that people will buy my product. The other thing is that, I have experience in only being supported by strangers other than some of my “friends”. At first, I wanted to introduce it as though it’s “some” brand I work with but I realized that I need to own it. I need to start now!! There’s no perfect time other than now. Nwabisa and Amanda said to me; “As much as there’s a lot of competition there’ll always be a target market for your product.” They are my close friends, they really supported the idea and gave me the confidence that I’ll make it. That’s how I overcame those challenges”.
In your own experience, why do you think it is important for one to take care of their skin? Also, are your products unisex? “And does your products accommodates males. My products are unisex, because males can also have acne, stretch marks and uneven skin. In my own experience I believe it’s very important to have a skin care routine whether or not you have skin concerns, otherwise you won’t have healthy skin”.
Where do you see your skin care product in 5years time? “In 5 years’ time I see myself opening a Glowa Aesthetics shop, where we also do facials and hair treatments. I’d also love to expand and allow people to order in bulk from me and resell, same thing that Avon does”.