NEWS | Spotlight on Lalitpur's Skincare Crowdfunding Campaign
NEWS | Nepalese Organic Skincare Brand
Focus on Lalitpur's Crowdfunding!
Lalitpur is an organic skincare brand from Nepal, spearheaded by Mai Mukaida. This spring, they are launching a "Seasonal Coffret" (including a booklet on Nepal and its herbs) delivered quarterly, along with a men's line. To support this, they are seeking funds for a promotional video production through the crowdfunding site motion gallery.
Text by KAJII Makoto (OPENERS)
Originating from an International Aid Organization Supporting Women in Developing Countries
Mai Mukaida, the founder of Lalitpur, first visited Nepal in 1999. Ten years later, she launched "Coffret Project," an international aid organization focused on empowering women through cosmetics. Cosmetics—the art of beautifying the face.—Such a small act can bring a smile to a woman's face. Realizing this, Mukaida has since applied makeup to over 1,300 women, including survivors of human trafficking, who needed mental care.
Furthermore, the organic skincare brand "Lalitpur" was born as a new form of this initiative. It was launched from Mukaida's desire to "create jobs for women, so they can live with confidence and freedom."
All cosmetic production is carried out by Nepalese women. Five women and two part-time staff are responsible for manufacturing. The decorative cords accenting the packaging are handmade by 25 orphaned children living in a shelter.
Skincare Products Formulated with Organic Herbs
Lalitpur's products use only organic ingredients native to the Himalayas, such as wild herbs and rock salt, with absolutely no pesticides or chemical agents. A chemist with over 30 years of research and development experience at a major Japanese cosmetics manufacturer also participated in the development.
The lineup includes "Multi Balm SA," a herbal cream balm made from Anthopogon, Nepal's national flower, known for its calming properties, and the anti-aging benefits of sea buckthorn fruit; "Facial Soap JY," a facial herbal soap rich in Jatamansi, a herb that soothes the mind, and yak milk, which moisturizes the skin; "Shampoo Bar JH," a herbal shampoo bar containing henna to bring suppleness to the hair and promote scalp health; and "Bath Salt A," Himalayan pink salt to regulate the body from within, aiding metabolism and improving cold sensitivity.
New Service Delivering Products Seasonally
The new "Seasonal Coffret" service, with products delivered around April, July, October, and January, is available in two sizes: "small Seasonal Coffret" (approx. 1 month's supply) for those who wish to use it alongside their existing cosmetics, or "Seasonal Coffret" (approx. 3 months' supply) packed with enough product to use Lalitpur generously every day throughout each season. Additionally, a booklet featuring explanations of Nepalese plants, beauty tips using Lalitpur, and interviews with experts will be included.
Furthermore, starting this summer, they plan to release "Top to Toe" soap, formulated with Nepalese organic lemongrass for a refreshing cleanse suitable for men, along with bath salts and a multi balm.
Funds Raised Will Be Used for Video Editing
To widely promote the Lalitpur brand ahead of the new line's launch, Mukaida is seeking funds for promotional video production through the crowdfunding site motion gallery.
"To grow into a brand loved by many and increase employment for Nepalese women living in shelters, we are actively seeking customers for our regularly purchased Seasonal Coffret and men's line."
"Although we are a new company in our first year, we aim to become a large corporation in the near future that can employ Nepalese women. We kindly ask for your support in our new endeavor."
Project Page:
https://motion-gallery.net/projects/lalitpur_2
Mai Mukaida
At 17, she visited Nepal and participated in an NGO focused on women's literacy education. In 2009, she launched the "Coffret Project." To date, she has delivered approximately 5,000 cosmetic items to Nepal, Turkey, Indonesia, and the Philippines, and through makeup workshops, has helped over 1,300 women regain their inherent confidence and dignity. Since 2010, she has focused her activities in Nepal, and in May 2013, launched "Lalitpur," a natural cosmetics brand from Nepal. She is working to create employment and restore self-esteem for women who are survivors of human trafficking in Nepal.
Lalitpur (Nepalese Natural Cosmetics Brand)
www.lalitpur.jp
Coffret Project (International Aid Project Through Cosmetics)
www.coffretproject.com