Woman develops natural skin care products
NORMAN — After Jade Arellano had her first child in 2009, she started looking at skin care products differently.
With a desire to use products with more natural ingredients and a need to do it cost-effectively, she began mixing products in her kitchen, starting with a chest rub for her infant son.
“I started doing some research, and it was all self-taught,” Arellano said. “It was going to be just for my family and me, not as a business.”
Business blooms
But that changed as more of Arellano’s relatives and yoga students began requesting her products, which included lotions and rubs for sore muscles. In December, she launched Prairie Bloom, an online store that offers herbal, handcrafted skin care products for men, women and children.
While pursuing her master’s degree in holistic nutrition, Arellano took a pharmacognosy class that taught her more about the healing capabilities of plants. She learned how to infuse oils with herbs. She said over the years more people are seeking natural skin care options.
“I want to cater to people in Oklahoma who are looking for alternative skin care, while also supporting local businesses,” Arellano said. “Part of my mission is being able to keep products affordable for folks who are not in a high tax bracket. I remember searching for products and seeing how expensive it was, and I could not afford that.”
Arellano said she does not envision Prairie Bloom products in big national retailers.
“I would have to double my prices, and I do not want to have to do that,” she said.
About the products
Prairie Bloom products are free from parabens, phthalates, petroleum and laurel sulfates. They range in price from $9 to $38 for 1 to 6 ounces. Products include cleansing grains, facial moisturizers with coconut oil and frankincense, and soothing salves. This month, Prairie Bloom started offering bar and foaming hand soaps.
Prairie Bloom takes orders online and via Facebook and ships nationwide. Arellano also sells products at farmers markets and local events in Oklahoma City and Norman.
“I try to invest my money in Oklahoma businesses, and I want people to have that option as well and keep that money going around our state,” Arellano said.
To learn more
For more information on Prairie Bloom, go to www.prairiebloombodycare.com.