Interview with Divya Malpani: Revolutionizing Skincare with Skinvest

Divya Malpani is a young Indian entrepreneur on a mission to disrupt the skincare industry. Born and raised in a quaint town in Maharashtra, Divya completed her high school education at the prestigious Indus International School in Bangalore before pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration at Northeastern University in Boston.

It was during her time in Boston, surrounded by a diverse group of people with various skin tones, that the idea for Skinvest was conceived. Divya recognized that while every skin type requires special care, the beauty industry has long overlooked the needs of brown skin. Fueled by her passion for innovation, she seized the opportunity to address this unmet need.

In 2020, while still in college, Divya laid the foundation for Skinvest—a skincare brand committed to inclusivity, research, transparency, and innovation. Over the next two years, she engaged in extensive research, conducting surveys, focus groups, and clinical trials, all aimed at developing effective products tailored to the diverse needs of modern consumers.

In February 2022, Skinvest made its official debut with a curated selection of five groundbreaking products. From solutions for pigmentation and dark circles to addressing cellulite and stretch marks, Skinvest quickly garnered acclaim from both consumers and industry experts. Divya’s unwavering commitment to responsible beauty has positioned her brand as a leader in the market.

Despite the challenges of launching a business at a young age, Divya remains dedicated to empowering Indian millennials and Gen Z to embrace their unique beauty. Skinvest’s success has been recognized with prestigious awards, including accolades from Estee Lauder and Nykaa.

Today, Skinvest stands as a beacon of innovation in the Indian skincare landscape, inspiring individuals to celebrate their skin. In this interview, Divya shares her insights on entrepreneurship, the skincare industry, and her vision for the future of Skinvest.

You started Skinvest while still in college. How did you balance being a student and an entrepreneur during the intense phases of research and product development?

Working on Skinvest’s foundation during my junior year at Northeastern University was serendipitous. I laid the groundwork during a gap semester in India, connecting with experts to develop formulations and branding. Returning to college, I applied my coursework directly to Skinvest, refining our strategy while managing the time difference with India. Sacrificing sleep and stepping down from leadership roles was necessary, but the motivation from our progress kept me focused.

What was the defining moment that convinced you Skinvest could revolutionize skincare for brown skin?

The turning point was confirming the market gap through focus groups and surveys. Realizing the substantial need for a skincare brand tailored for Indian youth affirmed my belief that Skinvest could transform the landscape.

Skincare is a personal journey. How does Skinvest resonate emotionally with consumers, especially millennials and Gen Z?

We prioritize authenticity and relatability, engaging with our audience through social media and incorporating their feedback. By addressing their specific concerns and celebrating diverse skin types, we build trust and foster emotional connections.

What was one of the most surprising discoveries or challenges during product development?

One surprising finding was the variance in ingredient quality, particularly aloe vera. This highlighted the challenge of sourcing effective, high-quality ingredients for Indian skin. We also noticed a rising interest from men in skincare, prompting us to tailor our offerings to meet their needs.

What does ‘responsible beauty’ mean to you, and how does Skinvest adhere to these principles?

‘Responsible beauty’ encompasses ethical practices, sustainability, and transparency. At Skinvest, we prioritize cruelty-free testing, responsibly sourced ingredients, and eco-friendly packaging while maintaining honest marketing.

How do you stay connected to the evolving needs of Gen Z regarding skincare? What’s the wildest idea you’ve heard from focus groups?

We engage constantly through social media and surveys, closely monitoring emerging trends. One innovative idea was integrating augmented reality for virtual consultations, reflecting Gen Z’s affinity for technology and personalized experiences.

How do you balance clinical precision with an approachable brand vibe?

We emphasize the scientific rigor behind our products while communicating in a relatable manner. Clear, evidence-based messaging coupled with collaborations with aligned influencers helps convey this balance effectively.

What skincare myth do you want to debunk?

A common myth is that more expensive products are always better. Effectiveness relies on ingredient quality and formulation, not just price. We aim to educate our customers on the importance of thoughtful ingredient choices.

What Skinvest product can’t you live without?

I can’t go a day without our Clear Win Cleanser. It’s essential for starting my skincare routine, ensuring my skin is clean and prepped for the next steps.

What advice do you have for young women and aspiring entrepreneurs?

Just start. Embrace failure as a learning opportunity, keep initial steps simple, and maintain an ideation journal. Build a network of founders and mentors; your network is your net worth.

Divya Malpani’s journey exemplifies the power of innovation and determination in the skincare industry. With Skinvest, she not only addresses the needs of brown skin but also inspires a new generation to embrace their unique beauty.