Divya Malpani
The Inspiring Journey of Divya Malpani: Founder & CEO of Skinvest
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During my undergraduate years, my friends and I took a trip together. We all hailed from different ethnicities and had varying skin types. But all of us happened to use the same sunscreen for the beach, and it was interesting how it affected all of our skin types differently. That got me thinking – skincare that’s formulated for young, brown people is rare. Hence began my 2 year-long research, surveys, working and re-working on the formulations with dermatologists, and clinical trials to lay the foundation for Skinvest.
In February 2022, Skinvest came to life with a small, young team of skincare nerds and experts who’ve faced the problems we now create solutions for.
Growing up, I faced terrible acne for which I had to apply ointments that looked and smelled so sad, it made me feel like something was wrong with me. But medical-grade skincare doesn’t have to feel that way. It doesn’t have to be boring or arduous.
And so, I founded Skinvest with a conviction to build a skincare brand that caters to the unique problems of young Indian skin, with an emphasis on innovation, transparency, inclusivity, and all the good vibes that make you look forward to your skincare regime.
Here’s to investing in your skin.
1. Delays in importing raw materials and packaging:
Import delays are often beyond our control, but we’ve learned that planning far in advance can help us navigate such challenges. Anticipating potential setbacks and building a buffer period into our timelines has significantly eased the process.
2. Managing a remote team:
Operating with a remote team isn’t always easy, especially for a small business like Skinvest. Communication gaps and a lack of connection can arise. To tackle this, we use a virtual office platform called Gather, which creates a collaborative workspace that feels like a physical office. Additionally, we host biannual team retreats to bond, have fun, and strengthen team relationships.
3. Learning to delegate:
As a perfectionist and control-oriented entrepreneur, delegating tasks was a significant challenge for me. Trusting others to execute work to my standards wasn’t easy. However, I soon realized that delegation is crucial for growth. By taking the time to train and trust my team, I’ve managed to shift my focus from operational tasks to business expansion. While mistakes still happen, they are part of learning and growth.
Today, I’m proud to have built a team of 12 talented individuals who are just as invested in Skinvest’s success. Delegation has allowed me to focus on the bigger picture, which is key to scaling the business.
Launching Skinvest has been a journey of immense learning, challenges, and rewarding milestones. Within just six months of our launch in 2022, we won the prestigious Beauty & You award by Estée Lauder and Nykaa for Growth, securing a funding award of ₹1.3 crore.
Our efforts to innovate and think out of the box have been recognized and celebrated. One such moment was when Mad Over Marketing featured our AR box campaign, a creative and interactive way to introduce consumers to the virtual world of Skinvest.
Skinvest stands out by being exclusively tailored for Indian skin, addressing specific concerns that are often overlooked by global brands. We bridge the gap between clinical efficacy and a cool, modern vibe, making skincare not just effective but also relatable and enjoyable.
Innovation is at the heart of everything we do—whether it’s creating cutting-edge formulations, launching unique product concepts, or designing sustainable and interactive packaging like our AR boxes. Skinvest constantly strives to push boundaries and offer solutions that are not only effective but also memorable.
Our focus lies in solving niche, unique, and real concerns faced by Indian skin, offering highly effective solutions that are deeply researched and scientifically backed. And while our products deliver premium quality, we ensure they remain accessible with affordable pricing, making luxury skincare more inclusive.
At Skinvest, we don’t just create products—we create experiences that redefine skincare for the Indian audience.
At Skinvest, the vision for the future is centered around innovation, inclusivity, and impact. We aim to position Skinvest as a trailblazer in the skincare industry, known for being a tech-driven, science-backed brand that delivers real, measurable results.
Over the next few years, we plan to:
Our ultimate goal is to not just create skincare products but also foster a culture of self-care and confidence, helping individuals feel empowered in their skin while leaving a positive and lasting impact on the industry.
Dream big, believe in yourself, and don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t achieve something. Failure is inevitable but invaluable—view it as a stepping stone, learn from it, adapt, and come back stronger with a more calculated approach.
Stay curious and passionate, and always embrace innovation. Knowledge is your greatest ally, so never stop learning and growing. While pursuing your dreams, remember that ethics and sustainability must remain at the forefront of your journey—because true success is about creating a positive impact, not just personal gain.
Above all, find your purpose. Success is not just about individual milestones; it’s about creating meaningful solutions, addressing real-world problems, and leaving a legacy of positive change that inspires others.
The world needs your ideas, your energy, and your dedication to make a difference. Go all in, and don’t just strive to succeed—strive to matter.
Build a personal brand. In today’s digital world, your personal brand is one of the most powerful assets you can have. It represents your identity, your values, and your expertise. Use technology to amplify it—social media, content creation, and digital tools can help you build and strengthen your presence. With the right strategy and consistency, your personal brand can open doors, attract opportunities, and create connections that will last a lifetime.
Technology has made it easier than ever to showcase your skills, share your journey, and engage with like-minded people. So, don’t just wait for opportunities—create them by actively shaping your personal brand.