Starest is proof that nature knows best. Esther Julius felt the sting of harsh chemicals first-hand – so she went digging. Research turned to recipes, and Starest was born. A small-batch natural skincare range that’s gentle, nourishing and made with you in mind.

Tell us about the background inspiration behind Starest.

Starest was born out of my personal struggle with sensitive, reactive skin. I tried countless products without real results, so I began looking deeper into what I was actually putting on my skin.

Through research, I discovered that many commercial skincare products contain harmful ingredients like parabens, triclosan, phthalates, sodium laureth sulfate, synthetic fragrance, and petrolatum. These chemicals have been linked to serious health issues such as cancer, fertility problems, fibroids, kidney damage, and respiratory conditions.

To avoid these toxic ingredients, I started making my own natural skincare products, and I was amazed at how much better my skin looked and felt.

The real turning point came when my sister-in-law was going through cancer treatment. Seeing how chemotherapy affected her skin, which in turn impacted her confidence, inspired me to take things further. I began formulating skincare using 100% natural ingredients, which helped transform her skin from being dark, dry, sensitive, and irritated to radiant and glowing. This gradual improvement boosted her confidence and supported her overall wellbeing.

Although she is no longer with us, Starest is my way of honouring her. It is my commitment to creating gentle, effective, and natural skincare that truly supports skin health and wellbeing.

At its core, Starest is focused on helping people restore their confidence by naturally supporting skin and hair concerns with gentle, effective, and nourishing plant-based solutions.

“Many commercial skincare products contain harmful ingredients”

Why is it important to you for your products to feature only natural ingredients?

Using only natural ingredients is at the heart of everything I do with Starest, and it goes back to how this journey began. I started exploring natural solutions to address my own sensitive skin problems after struggling with products that were filled with harsh and toxic ingredients.

As a qualified nurse, I have seen firsthand how many people are battling both acute and chronic health conditions. Through my research, I discovered just how common it is for everyday skincare products to contain cheap synthetic chemicals that may contribute to serious problems such as cancer, fibroids, hormone disruption, fertility issues, and respiratory conditions.

That knowledge changed everything for me. I knew I could not continue using or promoting products that may be contributing to long-term harm. I wanted to make a difference by creating clean, effective alternatives and to prove that truly natural ingredients are not only safe but also powerful and effective.

For me, Starest is more than skincare. It is a commitment to integrity and wellbeing. I believe we should not have to choose between healthy skin and a healthy body, and we certainly should not be compromising our health for the sake of beauty.

Tell us about your first ever product. How did you begin and what did it take to get it right?

The very first product I created was the Glow Skin Balm. I began by focusing on the specific skin concerns I wanted it to address, issues like dryness, dullness, sensitivity, and uneven skin tone. From there, I started researching natural ingredients with science-backed properties proven to deliver real results. I was determined to formulate something that was not only effective but also completely natural and safe.

Once I had a shortlist of the right ingredients, I began formulating. It took several versions to get the texture, consistency, and appearance just right. I experimented with the percentages of active natural ingredients to ensure they were both gentle and effective. I tested each version myself and then invited friends and family, especially those experiencing the skin issues I developed the product for, to try it out.

Their feedback was invaluable. I continued to adjust and refine the formula until I achieved the results I was aiming for. Once I was confident in the product, I completed the required Cosmetic Product Safety Report (CPSR) testing to ensure it met all safety standards.

Creating the Glow Skin Balm taught me the importance of patience, feedback, and integrity in product development. It laid the foundation for how every Starest product is made with care, research, and a genuine desire to make a difference.

What is your current production and manufacturing process? How do you ensure high quality natural skincare?

All Starest products are handmade in small batches with love and care. I choose this approach intentionally to maintain full control over quality and consistency. By avoiding mass production, I can ensure that every product meets the high standards I set, without compromising on texture, performance, or safety.

Large-scale production often leads to inconsistency, but with small batch formulation, every detail is monitored closely from start to finish.

We follow good manufacturing practices throughout the process, from preparation to packaging. Cleanliness, accuracy, and documentation are all part of the routine to ensure every batch is safe, stable, and effective.

When it comes to ingredients, I am very particular about sourcing. Wherever possible, I source raw materials directly from trusted producers, particularly in Nigeria and Ghana, where some of our most nourishing natural ingredients like shea butter and African black soap come from.

For other components, I only work with reputable UK and international suppliers who provide proper certification and transparency about ingredient origin and quality.

Every product reflects the care that goes into sourcing, formulation, and production. That is how I ensure that Starest customers receive skincare that is not only effective and natural, but also produced with integrity from start to finish.

“With small batch formulation, every detail is monitored closely from start to finish”

What is the best review you’ve ever received?

The best review I have ever received came from a woman who had been living with psoriasis for over 16 years. During that time, she avoided wearing skirts and always felt the need to cover up her skin because of the visible rashes and discomfort. It had a huge impact on her confidence and the way she saw herself.

She started using our shea butter as part of her daily routine, and over time it helped to soothe and clear the rash. Eventually, her skin became visibly clearer and healthier. What touched me the most was when she told me she finally felt confident enough to wear a skirt again for the first time in years, without feeling the need to hide.

That moment reminded me exactly why I started Starest. To help people feel comfortable and confident in their own skin. Knowing that something I created could make that kind of difference in someone’s life is truly priceless.

How do you assist your customers in finding the right product for them?

I believe that choosing the right skincare or haircare product starts with truly understanding the individual and their unique concerns. That is why I always begin by taking a detailed history of their issues, including the symptoms they are experiencing, how long they have been dealing with them, and any known triggers or sensitivities.

Where possible, I also carry out a visual assessment either in person or through clear images sent by the customer. This helps me better understand the condition of their skin or hair and tailor my recommendations more accurately.

Based on what I observe and learn, I then offer personalised guidance using our natural skincare and haircare range, selecting products that match their specific needs. In many cases, I also share lifestyle advice, whether that is related to hydration, diet, or routines, that can support long term skin and hair health.

My goal is to provide holistic, natural solutions that not only address the surface concern but also support confidence and wellbeing from the inside out.

Which products do your customers love the most, and why?

Customers love our Skin Balm for its deeply nourishing and soothing ingredients. It has helped many people get rid of dry skin, eczema, skin rashes, and uneven skin tone. It is a go-to product for restoring moisture, improving skin texture and tone, and promoting naturally radiant skin.

The Turmeric Tea Tree and Lemon Soap is another favourite. It is well known for clearing acne, blemishes, dark marks, and helping to even out the skin tone. Customers appreciate how gentle it is, yet how effectively it supports clearer, brighter skin.

Our Rose Geranium and Patchouli Deodorant Balm is especially popular for those seeking a natural alternative to traditional deodorants. It tackles body odour effectively, soothes sensitive underarms, and helps to improve underarm discolouration without causing irritation.

Each of these products reflects our commitment to offering natural, effective, and safe skincare that delivers real results people can feel confident in.

What is your favourite part of running Starest?

My favourite part of running Starest is being able to provide real solutions for people who are struggling with their skin and hair. There is nothing more fulfilling than hearing from someone who has tried everything without success, and then finds relief and results through one of our natural products.

I also enjoy the process of solving problems, connecting with people from different backgrounds, and seeing the impact our products make. Showcasing Starest at various events, working with corporate companies, and seeing our brand featured in high end stores has been incredibly rewarding.

It is not just about skincare for me. It is about making a positive impact, growing a brand with purpose, and creating products with intention to solve real problems while supporting both confidence and overall wellbeing.

What keeps you going when things get tough?

What keeps me going is staying focused on my “why.” I started Starest to make a real difference, to create impact by offering natural solutions that meet the everyday skin and hair concerns people face. That purpose is what grounds me, especially when things get challenging.

When obstacles arise, I remind myself of the lives that have been positively affected. Reading reviews from customers who have finally found relief and real results through our products is incredibly motivating. Knowing that people trust Starest with their skin and wellbeing pushes me to keep showing up and giving my best.

I also take time to pause, reflect, and re-strategise when needed. I see challenges as an opportunity to grow, adapt, and strengthen the business. Prayer, reflection, and staying connected to my values help me stay centred. I remind myself that I am not just building a brand, I am building hope, confidence, and a solution that many people genuinely need.

That bigger picture is what fuels me forward, even on the hardest days.

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