Il Ngwesi & Lewa Conservancy, Northern Kenya where we helped build the first KenyaGreen Festival '21
Hey out there, lovely souls, happy Wednesday! It is once again time to Educate & Regenerate.
Ed and I couldn't wait to share the life-affirming tale behind Star Seed, our independent, regenerative botanical skincare brand based right here in London. It's us, Emilie and Ed, the founders, and a few years ago we were deeply inspired to make a positive difference in the world.
Picture this: it was back in 2021 when we found ourselves in Kenya, exploring the breathtaking landscapes and getting to know the incredible local communities. But, amidst the beauty, we saw the harsh reality of drought & desertification and its devastating effects on the land and its people. In our hearts, we knew we had to do something.
And that's when it hit us - we could be more than just a nice clean skincare brand. We could be a force for good, a regenerative brand that helps the Earth heal while making you feel beautiful inside and out.
And so, Star Seed was born.
Ed visiting smallholder agroforestry farmers regenerating degraded soils by planting native & edible trees in Kilifi, Kenya 2021
We're all about transparency and honesty. We want you to know exactly what you're putting on your skin – ingredients that are not only kind to you but also to Mother Earth. Our focus became high-performing, drought-resistant botanicals that not only rejuvenate your skin but also help the lands of East African communities thrive even in the toughest times.
Let's be real – climate change is no joke. In Kenya alone, they are experiencing the worst drought in 40 years, marked by a 6th consecutive failed rainy season, with 5.4 million people expected to be hit by severe hunger this year. We've all seen its effects, and we know it's time for action. So, through smallholder farmers & tribal communities, we are sourcing resilient botanicals that can stand tall amidst the harshest heatwaves and droughts. It's not just about skincare; it's about giving back, about empowering local communities to care for their lands and preserve their heritage.
A baobab tree is a keystone specie in Kenya helping recycle water & nutrients and regenerating the local ecosystem
Have we mentioned how much we adore the baobab tree (Adansonia Digitata)? This magnificent tree is a true symbol of life, nurturing not just our skin but also the ecosystem it resides in. Working with local communities in Kenya, we make sure the baobab fruit is sustainably harvested, spreading its magic while supporting these wonderful communities.
You'll find this botanical wonder in our Forest Day Cream, where it locks in moisture throughout the day, giving your skin that healthy, radiant glow.
Next up, let's talk about Jojoba (Simmondsia Chinensis). This desert shrub from Voi, Kenya, stole our hearts with its resilience and healing properties. Our Jojoba-powered Star Serum is a tribute to this remarkable plant. Jojoba oil, 97% biochemically similar to our skin's sebum, is perfect for sensitive skin that craves moisture and balance. It keeps breakouts at bay and won't clog your pores, leaving you with a dewy, youthful complexion.
Now, prepare to be amazed by the miracle tree, Moringa Oleifera. This superfood, rich in plant protein, fiber, vitamins A, E, K, iron, and calcium, is a game-changer for your skin. With its deep roots and drought resistance, Moringa plays a crucial role in enhancing soil biodiversity and recycling nutrients. Our Forest Day Cream is powered by the goodness of Moringa, bringing you a natural anti-inflammatory remedy that nourishes and protects your skin.
John demonstrating the many benefits of moringa while visiting smallholder agroforestry farms in Machakos, Kenya 2019
We're passionate about what we do, and we want to invite you all to be a part of our journey. By choosing our products, you're not just investing in your skin; you're investing in a regenerative future. It's about living in harmony with nature, understanding its magic, and giving back to the Earth that gives us so much.
So, let's embark on this beautiful journey together. As we explore the wonders of drought-resistant botanicals, we'll be making the world a greener, happier place. You can even experience our Kilifi Regeneration Impact Programme on our Explorer page. This cool platform allows you track our tree & mangrove growing progress in real-time. We're not just a skincare brand; we're a family, a community of conscious consumers, all striving for a brighter, more sustainable tomorrow.
Join us on the Regeneration. Let's nurture our skin, our planet, and our souls as we embrace the magic of drought-resistant botanicals and create a regenerative world, one skincare routine at a time.
With love light & gratitude,
Emilie & Ed, the Star Seed Founders