A visionary leader blending Korean beauty trends with eco-friendly practices
Penny C, founder of Tidalove, combines Korean beauty trends with sustainability, creating effective, eco-friendly skincare products that challenge industry norms and address environmental concerns.
Penny C is a remarkable force in the beauty and wellness industry, embodying the spirit of innovation and sustainability. As a first-generation immigrant from Korea and a dedicated mother of two, Penny has channelled her personal experiences and concerns for the environment into creating Tidalove, a brand that challenges the norms of the beauty world. Her journey from a concerned parent to a pioneering entrepreneur is both inspiring and commendable. Penny’s commitment to developing effective, eco-friendly skincare solutions reflects her deep-rooted passion for leaving a positive impact on the world. Her ability to blend the efficacy of Korean beauty trends with sustainable practices sets her apart as a visionary leader in the industry.
As we delve into the conversation with Penny, we explore the motivations and challenges that have shaped her path. Her insights offer a unique perspective on the intersection of personal values and business innovation. Through this interview, we gain a deeper understanding of how Tidalove not only stands out in a competitive market but also addresses the growing demand for ethically produced products. Join us as we uncover the story behind Tidalove and the visionary mind driving its success.
What personal experiences led you to create Tidalove, and how do they shape your approach to sustainability and product development?
Raising my two kids made me increasingly aware of the world they’re inheriting. The constant news about climate change and plastic-filled oceans deeply impacted me. I knew I needed to take action, but as a busy mom, making my own skincare products wasn’t practical. I craved something as effective as popular Korean beauty products but with a focus on sustainability. With Tidalove, I aimed to challenge stereotypes about overproduction in Asian brands, creating a range of products that are both genuinely effective and environmentally friendly.
How does Tidalove stand out in the competitive beauty and wellness industry?
Many brands highlight sustainability, but at Tidalove, we prioritize high-performance skincare that is also eco-friendly. We’ve developed solid formulations that eliminate water, making our products more concentrated and effective. Our packaging and production methods reflect our commitment to sustainability, without compromising on quality. This unique combination allows us to stand out in a crowded market.
How are you addressing the growing demand for sustainable and ethically produced products?
Sustainability is central to Tidalove. We use biodegradable, refillable packaging, and our solid products reduce the need for plastic containers while cutting shipping emissions due to their lighter, compact design. Additionally, we’ve partnered with organizations in the Philippines to remove ocean-bound plastic. For every product sold, we remove one piece of plastic waste from the ocean. This holistic approach not only meets growing consumer demand but also reinforces our commitment to environmental responsibility.
What are your plans for growth and innovation in the coming years?
We’re focused on expanding our market and introducing more innovative, eco-conscious products. Solid beauty and wellness products have significant growth potential as consumers seek compact and effective solutions. We’re also exploring new skincare technologies, such as capsule formulations, to offer more concentrated, potent care. As we continue to grow, our goal is to make high-quality, sustainable skincare accessible to more people.
What inspired the creation of the Tidalove Solid Serum, and how is it different from other K-beauty products?
I wanted to offer a more concentrated and eco-friendly skincare solution that reflects modern values of sustainability. When I learned that many serum beads are produced in Korea, we decided to create a product that provides only the most potent ingredients without unnecessary liquid. Our Solid Serum is highly concentrated, travel-friendly, and plastic-free. You only need one bead per application, making the product last longer while delivering effective results. This makes it ideal for consumers who want high-performance skincare without sacrificing environmental values.
Can you tell us about the key ingredients in the Tidalove Solid Serum and how they benefit the skin?
Our star ingredient is seaweed extract, which is packed with vitamins and minerals that hydrate and protect the skin from environmental stressors. We’ve also incorporated niacinamide (Vitamin B3) to improve skin tone and texture, while strengthening the skin’s moisture barrier. Macadamia oil, a key ingredient, mimics the skin’s natural sebum, providing deep moisture without clogging pores. Together, these ingredients work in harmony to nourish the skin, promote a radiant complexion, and enhance its overall health.
How does the solid form of the serum benefit users compared to traditional liquid serums?
The solid form offers several key benefits. It’s highly concentrated, so you get more active ingredients with each use, meaning a little goes a long way. It’s also perfect for travel—no spills, leaks, or worries about liquid restrictions during flights. Our solid serum is lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry anywhere, whether for daily use or during travels. The solid form also aligns with our eco-friendly mission by eliminating plastic packaging.
What challenges are you facing as Tidalove grows, and how are you addressing them?
One challenge is educating consumers about our solid products, as they differ from traditional liquid formulations. Some customers are hesitant to try something new, so we focus on sharing detailed usage instructions and customer reviews to build trust and comfort. Another challenge is the perception of our products being more expensive than conventional brands. Our solid formulations require a more intricate production process, and we use premium, eco-friendly ingredients, which naturally raises costs. However, we’re working to balance affordability while maintaining our sustainability and quality standards.
