Business Column Questions

Who are you?

My name is Helen Gilmour and I am the Managing Director of Skin-a-Licious.

What does your business do?

I hand-make all natural skin care products designed for those who suffer from sensitive skin conditions.

Where are you based?

I currently manufacture all my products in Airdrie. The location was chosen because it is near to where I live and has all the necessities I need to help grow and expand the business. It’s a prime location and affordable.

How did you get started?

I began my business when my son was diagnosed with eczema at 3 months old. He was given steroids, which worked, however I was a registered nurse at the time and I knew that the medications he was on was going to do him more harm than good with continuous use. I needed to find a more natural way to take care of his condition and I found it. I developed a soap, gave it to my son and within a month he was eczema clear.

What is your background?

My main background is medical. I was a registered nurse in the US and it was through my training and taking care of children with various skin conditions that taught me that although medications work, there is a natural alternative.

What is your top tip?

Take care of your skin. It’s the body’s largest organ.

How long has your business been running?

The business has been running in the UK for almost 3 years. However, since I first started this business in the US, the total would be 15 years.

Has anyone helped you get started and how?

I really have to thank Entrepreneurial Spark. This is my second intake, so I will soon be approaching a year with them. I cannot express into words how much they have supported and guided me throughout this journal. I don’t think I would have progressed this far if it wasn’t for them.

Who was/is your mentor/or inspiration?

From a personal standpoint, my son is my biggest inspiration. If it wasn’t for him, I would not have started this business. After he was eczema free, I was urged to sell my products on-line and the rest is history. From a professional standpoint that would have to be Michelle Mone. She took a chance in a male dominated industry and succeed against the odds.

What was your first deal?

That first deal was with Historic Scotland. By being able to sell my product to them on a continual basis, it gave me the drive and determination to push forward and expand my business, rather than sit back and settle for what I have already achieved.

Useful contacts

https://www.facebook.com/skinalicioussoaps

Twitter - asoapstar

Linkedin - https://uk.linkedin.com/in/skinalicious

Instagram - http://instagram.com/bubblebars

Pinterest- https://uk.pinterest.com/skinalicious/

Contact Details

Helen Gilmour – hello@skin-a-licious.co.uk