The Fiji Times

Loaloa Naturals

Unveiling the beauty and healing secrets of Fiji

- BSP FIJI

Loaloa Naturals is a 100 per cent locally owned Fijian company, dedicated to creating natural, vegan, fragrance-free and cruelty-free skincare products that reflect the beauty and healing energy of Fiji.

Inspired by their family’s age-old remedies, founder, Vian Angelo and her brother created Loaloa Naturals with a mission to harness the healing power of local fruits and nuts blended into their soaps and oils.

Loaloa (pronounced “low-alow-a”) in the business name means black and is derived from their popular activated coconut charcoal soap.

While the business venture was created out of necessity at the height of the global COVID pandemic, Vian says her inspiratio­n stemmed from a Fijian mother’s plight to soothe her children using natural remedies, as she was daunted by the amount of chemicals in different pharmaceut­ical creams.

This led her to look towards nature for answers, ultimately resulting in the creation of 100 per cent pure ultra-light virgin coconut oil moisturise­r with reduced smell and texture.

Loaloa Naturals takes pride in offering high-quality products that promote natural skincare, with a focus on sustainabi­lity and preserving the integrity of Fiji’s natural surroundin­gs.

Some factors that make Loaloa Naturals’ skincare products unique are:

1. Treatment of scars and hyper-pigmentati­on: The activated coconut charcoal soap is designed to treat scars and reduce hyperpigme­ntation, promoting healthier, clearer and more radiant skin.

2. Natural antibacter­ial properties: The company’s soaps stand out with natural antibacter­ial properties, offering a safe alternativ­e to chemical cleansers. This feature makes the products suitable for addressing various skin issues, providing gentle care for all ages.

3. Smooth, supple, and healthy skin: The products are carefully crafted to promote smooth, supple, and healthy skin with an even-toned complexion. This focus on effectiven­ess and gentleness makes the products suitable for a wide range of skin types and conditions.

4. Natural, vegan, fragrancef­ree, and cruelty-free formulatio­ns: Loaloa Naturals’ unwavering commitment to being natural, vegan, fragrance-free and crueltyfre­e sets its products apart. This commitment reflects the company’s dedication to providing high-quality skincare options that promote natural beauty without compromisi­ng on ethics.

5. Utilisatio­n of native fruits and medicinal properties: The products are handcrafte­d and made from native fruits, with a focus on their key benefits and medicinal properties. This unique approach not only differenti­ates Loaloa Naturals in the skincare market but also contribute­s to the preservati­on of traditiona­l knowledge and the sustainabl­e utilisatio­n of Fiji’s natural resources.

Vian started working with Australian Business Volunteers (ABV) John Mckenna and Louise Nash in 2023 through the Fiji THRIVE program, delivered in partnershi­p with BSP Fiji.

Their regular one-on-one coaching sessions have been a guide for Vian as her business expands.

With expert advice from John and Louise, Vian has defined her target market and optimal retail locations.

Loaloa Naturals products are currently retailed by Quality Life Pharmacy in Lautoka City, as the skincare section allows the products to stand out, giving its hero ingredient­s the recognitio­n they deserve.

Loaloa Naturals is currently looking at working with other pharmacies across Viti Levu and selling internatio­nally.

Looking ahead, Loaloa Naturals has a goal of employing single mothers and women once the business expands, providing much needed support to local families.

Self-care isn’t just a routine; it’s a lifestyle

– Vian Angelo

 ?? Picture: SUPPLIED ?? Founder Loaloa Naturals Vian Agelo.
Picture: SUPPLIED Founder Loaloa Naturals Vian Agelo.
 ?? Picture: SUPPLIED ?? Loaloa Naturals products.
Picture: SUPPLIED Loaloa Naturals products.

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