Care for your own skin. Introducing Skindiy.
Hi, I’m Cherith — the founder of Skindiy. Here's my story:
I started making my own skin balm during the lockdowns when I was starting to run out of my regular skin cream. I’d been on a “make everything from scratch” journey — I had time on my hands, so I thought: Why not learn to make my own skincare, too?
I was horrified when I read the long list of ingredients on some of the products I’d been using. I was shocked that I’d been paying so much for what was essentially water mixed with a bunch of toxic chemicals and then whipped to create a cream. When I researched one of the natural-sounding (and super expensive) brands I used to buy, I discovered it contained petroleum — and worse still, several ingredients that were banned in Europe but still allowed in Australia and the U.S. (I’ve since discovered this is the case with lots of food additives, too.)
I thought: There’s got to be something more natural I can put on my skin. So I began experimenting with making my own skin balms — and I loved them. My skin had never felt so nourished. I made extra to give to friends, and they loved them too. They encouraged me to start selling them.
At the time, I’d returned to my freelance work as a Production Designer and was busy on set. But the idea kept coming back — I wanted more people to experience how simple and empowering it is to make your own natural skincare. I wondered: Could I design an easy-to-use DIY kit that looks good, is environmentally friendly, and makes a beautiful gift or fun activity? Mostly, I wanted it to introduce people to a new skill.
So Skindiy was born.
I began by measuring out ingredients (I love to cook, but not bake, so precise measuring was a new skill for me). I sourced dark glass bottles to protect the oils from sunlight and avoid plastic contamination. Then I searched for recyclable or compostable containers — and eventually found my solution at a catering supply place.
I dusted off skills from my very first job as a graphic designer. I started playing with names and designing a logo. I originally called it Skinb — a "Plan B" for me, and a "Plan B" for my skin. Plus, many of the products contain beeswax, so the “B” felt fitting.
But when it came time to trademark the brand, I needed a name I could protect. That’s when Skindiy came to life — a name that reflects my hope to encourage people to care for their own skin by understanding ingredients, and maybe even trying to make their own products one day.
I sourced kraft labels, designed packaging, researched platforms, and decided Shopify was right for me.
Once the products were ready and I’d had great feedback from friends, I hit the market trail. I started with my local market in Coffs Harbour — it was nerve-wracking setting up for the first time, but I met such lovely people who were genuinely interested in the products. That made it all feel worth it. I also made some great new friends with other stallholders who were incredibly supportive and encouraging. I love attending local farmers markets on the mid north coast of Australia when I can, and I also sell online.
Thank you to everyone who’s purchased from me, followed along on Instagram, offered feedback, or shared words of advice. It’s been such a lovely journey — and I’m excited to keep growing.
Much love,
Cherith x