Ayurveda is the ancient practice of alternative medicine based in India.  We receive many questions about alternative medicine, organic skincare, and new products.  Saharan is a really unique skincare line that combines all 3 – plus they follow a clinical, evidence based approach when formulating their products, as the company founder has a background in the pharmaceutical industry!  Lisa Mattam, founder of Ayurvedic industry leader Sahajan Skincare sat down with us to answer a few questions.  Watch for a product review in upcoming weeks!

1. It is so interesting that you transitioned from a career in pharmaceutical industry to natural skincare. What was that transition like for you?

It’s been a fascinating transition. The foundations of pharma force a rigour or discipline that ensures we take a clinically valid approach to formulation and manufacturing. The biggest part of the transition is moving from a big company environment to our small but mighty team! I laugh that when I started, I was everyone from the CEO to the custodian. That transition from corporate to start-up can be tricky but it’s an important one to recognize. The corporate world teaches you so much abut you can’t apply the learning in the same way because you need to scale differently.

 
2. Tell us a little more about the principles of ayurveda and how they are translated into your skincare line?

Our launch collection was in some ways a bit of reverse engineering. For example, I wanted a serum that would be great for skin radiance, glow, minimization of fine lines and long term protection and the Ayurvedic doctors we worked with, recommended the key part of the blend. They would tell us which ingredients and what levels and we formulated around this blend. Ultimately, Ayurveda is about understanding that the body and the skin need to be in balance for optimal health- Sahajan is much the same. Depending on your need, you can chose whatever product is right for you and your needs.

 
3. We haven’t used gotu kola or neem oil before, could you tell us a little more about them and the benefits to skin/hair/nails?

I LOVE these ingredients. Gotu Kola is the Indian parsley- known for its triterpenoid action is has been shown in studies to stimulate the production of collagen. Interestingly, it is used in some topical skin formulations for scar healing. It’s a beautiful, natural ingredient that can help to stimulate the production of collagen, minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and support the structure of the skin.

Neem- means The Healing Tree is sanskrit. You will see it in a wide variety of preparations because it has an anti-inflammatory effect so for the area under the eyes, it helps to minimize the look of dark circles and puffiness under the eye. Neem oil is loaded with antioxidants and fatty acids that make it amazing for slowing down the aging process. We use it in our eye cream for that person.

4. Who is your target audience? Are the products appropriate for use on any skin type/age/etc?

Would it be crazy if I said anyone? Really, my mission is to create a collection of products based on Ayurveda with clinically valid claims to allow our customers to chose clean beauty. I want them to be able to chose clean and results at the same time. We currently have customers as young as 18 up to 70 years old. As we grow the collection, we will be able to include a wider variety of needs and wants. For example, I envision a series of acne or spot treatment products.

5. Natural/organic beauty is definitely having a crescendo! What’s next for Sahajan?Where do you see opportunities for growth?

We are growing too which is exciting. In the last year, we launched at Credo Beauty and HSN. We currently working on two new products for early next year and will continue to expand our offering.