As far as homegrown brands go, Neema Cosmetics is doing the most in its hair and skincare line to keep you feeling sufficiently pampered.
The Namibian-produced range contains ximenia (ombeke) oil and marula oil, boasting ingredients straight from the earth and untampered with, which adds to its appeal.
Each product serves a particular function and Esther Hoveka, the brains behind the operation, suggests testing them all out and seeing what works for you.
Neema Cosmetics was founded in 2005, launching the line with a body cream. Two years later they started testing different products and developing various ingredients to create natural hair products.
“Our vision is that people are able to experience and benefit from the beauty of nature, and we aim to find ingredients that promote the well-being and beauty of our customers,” says Hoveka.
The hair care line includes ombeke conditioner, pure ombeke oil, ombeke shampoo, ombeke moisturiser and an ombeke oil hair pomade which also contains beeswax and bergamot essence.
Hoveka says ombeke oil is the ideal ingredient in the hair care line due to its unusual fatty acid composition.
“This makes it particularly good for dry hair that is prone to breakage,” says Hoveka, as well as those with kinky and coily textures that need extra moisture or people who live in dry climates.
The skincare line uses aloe vera-based facial cleansing gel, an anti-ageing facial oil, and an uneven skin tone correcting face lotion, as well as a moisturing body cream containing shea butter, coconut oil and ximenia oil, as well as a marula oil lip balm.
Local model Leena Shipwata is “obsessed” with Neema Cosmetics and cannot get enough of the hair care products.
“I started using it just to help my hair stay healthy, but I didn’t know it would make my strands so soft and manageable,” says Shipwata, who is so impressed she’s opted for some of their skin care products as well.
Hoveka says marketing is a challenge for their growing business as they do not have the budget of bigger corporations.
“As you know, marketing is a huge part of the cosmetics business. Without this, growth is slow.”
She’s positive, though, that her business philosophy will keep Neema Cosmetics going strong.
“We believe in respect and appreciation for all creations, promoting well-being through harmony with nature. Guided by this philosophy we take great care to research all possible ingredients, before including them in our products.”
• Keep your skin care as simple as possible.
• Make sure the products strengthen your skin’s ability to heal and protect itself. This means products should have the right pH and not contain unnecessary sensitising ingredients (e.g. some fragrances).
• Be gentle.
• Don’t look for overnight cures. You’ll end up with problems in the long term.
• Work with your skin and hair naturally.
• If using Neema Cosmetics do a patch test as some nut oils can cause allergic reactions.
