Graduate Spotlight: Cindy Suárez, Founder of Crisocolla
Brand: Crisocolla
Training: Pro Natural Hair Care Formulation Course, year 2023
Location: Puerto Rico
Hero Product: BotaniCustom Hair Cream
“Custom Handmade Hair Care”
About Crisocolla
Crisocolla specializes in personalized hair care solutions through our BotaniCustom collection. Our mission is to empower individuals by offering customized products formulated with botanical ingredients for optimal hair health and vitality. Each product is tailored to your specific hair type and goals, ensuring a unique and effective hair care experience.
What inspired you to make your own products?
My journey to founding Crisocolla’s line of hair care products was ignited by both personal challenges and moments of triumph. Growing up in Puerto Rico, I confronted obstacles that extended far beyond typical teenage struggles. As a deaf individual, I encountered discrimination and bullying, impacting not only my confidence but also my overall well-being. This stress manifested in my hair, leaving it dry and damaged.
However, discovering the transformative potential of natural ingredients marked a turning point. I began experimenting as a DIY enthusiast, blending botanicals renowned for their nourishing properties. Witnessing the remarkable improvement in both my hair and self-assurance, I felt compelled to extend these solutions to others facing similar battles. Thus, Crisocolla was born.
My education at Joan Morais Cosmetics School proved instrumental in this journey. Equipping me with the necessary skills to refine formulations, it also instilled a profound sense of purpose and empowerment. For Crisocolla, it’s not merely about hair care; it’s a platform for promoting self-love and acceptance.
What was the hardest part of starting your business?
Rebranding my entire company was no small feat. It took countless late nights, redesigning logos, building a new website, reformulating products, sourcing ingredients, and creating new labels—all to enhance the customer experience.
What equipment or ingredients did you first start out with?
In the beginning, I relied on basic equipment like hand-held mixers and experimented with ingredients like unrefined shea butter. Looking back, my journey would’ve been smoother with the right training and fewer unnecessary purchases!
How did your training at Joan Morais Cosmetics School help your business?
My training at Joan Morais Cosmetics School gave me a solid foundation in natural product formulation and regulatory compliance. But beyond that, it embraced inclusion, making my learning experience as a deaf student easier and more enjoyable. Their support spoke volumes, and I’m forever grateful.
What are you most proud of?
The most rewarding aspect of Crisocolla is the positive impact it has on our customers. Hearing their stories and seeing the transformative results of our products reaffirms our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
What advice would you give to other hair entrepreneurs?
My advice? Dive in headfirst and follow your passion! Invest in quality training, like what I received at Joan Morais Cosmetics School. And remember, it’s not just about the products—it’s about the passion and purpose behind them.
Anything else you would like to add?
A huge shoutout to Joan Morais Cosmetics School for being my launchpad into the beauty industry. And to all the dreamers out there, including my fellow deaf friends, believe in yourself and your vision. You have the power to change the world, one hair strand at a time. Let’s make it happen!
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