Step into the world of Kear, where the art of wellbeing meets the wisdom of ancient Greece. Today, we have the pleasure of diving into an exclusive interview with the visionary founder behind this exceptional brand, as we uncover the fascinating story that led to the creation of Kear and its commitment to natural, ethical, and clean skincare.
Derived from the ancient Greek term for “heart,” Kear encapsulates the essence of self-care and offers a premium range of skincare products that go beyond superficial beauty. Drawing inspiration from ancient Greek formulas that have withstood the test of time, Kear combines powerful herbs, essential oils, and natural ingredients sourced from local farms and cooperatives in Greece.
With a comprehensive range of non-toxic balms, oils, plant-based soaps, and shampoo bars, Kear’s skincare line nourishes your body from head to toe, promoting balanced, healthy, and radiant skin. Embracing the philosophy of “less is more,” Kear believes in the beauty of minimalism and offers versatile products that work for all, without discrimination based on need, skin tone, or gender.
At Kear, the focus is not just on skincare but on holistic wellbeing. Reconnecting with nature and its energy has become increasingly important, particularly in the wake of the pandemic. Kear’s natural cosmetics provide both protection and care for your skin, fostering a sense of euphoria and harmony within. By embracing authentic natural ingredients and scents, each Kear product embodies Greece’s vibrant culture while delivering exceptional efficacy.
With a commitment to clean beauty and environmental sustainability, Kear’s skincare range targets multiple skin concerns, minimizing the need for excessive packaging and waste. The result is a decluttered skincare cabinet and clearer, healthier, and more radiant skin.
Join us as we embark on this journey with Kear, where ancient wisdom and modern innovation converge to offer an experience that goes beyond a mere product. Discover the art of wellbeing and unlock the timeless beauty secrets of Kear, where nature’s gifts are harnessed for your skin’s ultimate delight.
Tell us about the journey that led you to launching your brand, Kear Natural.
In the past, when environmental protection wasn’t as popular, I took the initiative to establish an environmental education program for schoolchildren in the NGO where I worked. Participating in HELMEPA JUNIOR was entirely voluntary, requiring insightful teachers to instil awareness in younger children. Although it was challenging, it proved to be a success, providing valuable insights into how the younger generation perceives the world they will inherit as adults. The combination of my love for history and nature ultimately inspired the birth of Kear!
The company name, “Kear,” is derived from Ancient Greek and means “heart.” Can you share more about your connection to Greece?
Spiritually, I grew up in a land of sunshine, crystal-clear blue seas, history, philosophy, virtue, and democracy. It is a place of excellence and moderation, science and arts, pure tastes and smells, fresh ingredients, and tradition in the making. I actually grew up in the suburbs of Athens, where I had the opportunity to go out and play with my friends in our nearby deserted plot. I have always loved the outdoors and looked forward to that time. I am grateful and proud of everything that defines us today, as it all originated in the past. Values such as pride, grace, and honesty, as well as principles like ethos, dignity, hospitality, love, and passion, have shaped our identity. These principles and values are the heart of our land, just as “kear” is the heart of skincare. The word “kear” means “heart” in ancient Greek and has frequently been used in poems and works to describe absolute and unconditional affection, passion, and devotion to one’s purpose, cause, and objective. It is this passion and love for the products of our land that inspired us to create the κέαρ® Face & Body skincare line.
What sets your brand apart from others on the market?
κέᾰρ® has a compelling story to tell. It represents the cosmetic legacy of ancient Greece. Additionally, our products are multi-tasking, reducing the need for numerous products to address different needs. Our balms, body oils, and lip balms are 100% natural, containing only beeswax, extra virgin olive oil, and herbs. They do not contain water, making them immune to germs and bacteria. The olive oil, a cosmetic treasure, is not a fat and is completely compatible with the skin’s lipids, allowing it to be easily absorbed without leaving a greasy residue.
We have adapted timeless formulas passed down by scholars and philosophers, creating conscientious products that meet the needs of today’s fast-paced personal care routines. The result is a range of natural, potent, safe, versatile, and multifunctional products. Our products are non-toxic, cruelty-free, and long-lasting. With a comprehensive range, Kear offers everything needed for healthy, natural, and radiant Grecian skin. Each product is thoughtfully designed to embrace both its ancient roots and its modern presence. Our mission is to deliver effective skincare formulated with strictly natural ingredients, using the same ancient formulas our ancestors used thousands of years ago. Our products are suitable for everyone, targeting various needs rather than specific skin types. Embracing the ancient Greek way of elegance in simplicity, one product can serve many purposes.
To date, what has been your best-selling product?
Our multi-award-winning face and body balms have been the most popular among our customers. The Plant Heroes™ Body Balm is known for its reconstructing and moisturising properties. The Soothing Body Balm, infused with Arnica Montana, offers calming benefits. The Antioxidant Face Balm is rich in superfruit Hippophae L. (Seabuckthorn berry) oil, which combats free radicals and slows down the aging process. Its powerful enzymes shield the skin from UV light exposure, pollution, and toxicity.
How important is it for your range to be cruelty-free?
Respecting nature is of utmost importance to us, and everything in a κέᾰρ® product is part of a broader whole. We are committed to using only certified ingredients grown in the Greek countryside and handpicked by our trusted colleagues. Our products have existed for eons, tried-and-tested over time by our ancestors. They are completely natural and are never tested on animals. Respecting animals, nature, and the environment is at the essence of our brand.
Can you explain the process involved in launching a new product?
Our product development team passionately reviews every precious ingredient, ensuring its safety, effectiveness, and synergy with the entire product line. We consistently formulate our creams, oils, and soaps with soothing, low-hazard ingredients that can be used by almost anyone and on most skin types. Our line consists of eleven star products, all produced according to traditional methods and EU regulations, in certified labs that have undergone rigorous testing.
However, the most challenging part is shaping an idea into an actual product. For example, when creating SofiLip™, our newest addition to the skincare line, we extensively tried and tested different versions and samples. Simultaneously, we had to come up with a name that correlated with our story and packaging that effectively communicated the name’s meaning. We want each product to have a connection with the entire line, and that’s the most difficult aspect.
What does self-care mean to you?
In our fast-paced and demanding world, it is crucial to make time to “Kear” for ourselves. Self-care should not be seen as vain but as a way to ensure we take care of ourselves every single day, not just when we feel stressed and drained. It extends beyond focusing on our external appearance, although that is important too. Our face, body, and skin reflect what’s inside us. If we lack energy or surpass our limits, it shows, regardless of what we do to look good on the outside. We need to find time to relax, decompress, exercise, engage in activities we enjoy, spend time with loved ones, and laugh. Sticking to the basics and finding a balance, as our ancient Greek ancestors emphasised, allows us to choose quality over quantity.
Our readers love to travel. What destination is at the top of your bucket list?
There are two places I would absolutely love to visit. The first is Japan because it represents a completely different civilisation than ours. The blending of ancient traditions with modern life in an easy-going and natural way is truly timeless. Despite being ultra-modern, Japan offers numerous opportunities to connect with its traditional culture.
The second place on my list is New Zealand. It has been a dream of mine since childhood, and it is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular places on earth. The country boasts breathtaking scenery and an unmatched diversity. Additionally, its culture, easy way of living, and safety make it an enticing destination.
What does 2024 look like for your brand?
2024 is set to be a busy and buzzing year filled with information, creativity, positive vibes, and feedback. Kear is expanding its reach to Europe, Asia, and the US. We are currently planning to launch new products in the coming Fall, focusing on prevention, reconstruction, and positivity. We are collaborating with Greek touristic media and wedding press outlets for press coverage. Kear products have already found success in the boutiques of five-star hotels in Greece, leading us to explore the production of a new line exclusively for spas. This lineup will include a face mask, serum, rock salt scrubs, and detoxifying massage oils. Additionally, we are venturing into new markets in countries such as Israel and the USA.
Where can people find out more about Kear Natural?
For more information about our skincare line, our story, and hidden treasures, visit our website at www.kearlife.com.
Kear products are also available on various online boutiques, such as Sephora UK, Walmart US, Wolf & Badger, Oxygen Boutique, The Positive Co, Releve and others.
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