Today we’d like to introduce you to Tamara Brown
Hi Tamara, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I never set out to start a skincare business—JAK’s Essentials was born out of necessity. My kids struggled with eczema and hypersensitivity, and nothing on the shelves worked for them. I was tired of reading labels filled with chemicals I couldn’t pronounce, so I decided to take matters into my own hands. I started in my kitchen, mixing natural ingredients, determined to find a solution that would actually help their skin heal.
What started as a mother’s mission turned into a passion. I didn’t just want to make products—I wanted to truly understand skincare from the inside out. So, I went back to school and earned over 27 certifications in cosmetic skincare formulation, herbalism, aromatherapy, and became a certified holistic health care specialist. With this knowledge, I developed products that weren’t just natural but were scientifically formulated to be effective.
As word spread, people started asking for custom skincare solutions, and before I knew it, JAK’s Essentials was growing beyond my kitchen. But this brand was never just about selling products—it was about education, empowerment, and wellness. That’s why I expanded into private labeling, helping other entrepreneurs launch their own skincare lines without the hassle of formulation and production.
My journey also led me to write about my experiences, sharing what I’ve learned through life, self-care, skincare, and holistic health. And because self-care goes beyond what we put on our skin, I created retreats—spaces for women to heal, reset, and step into their power.
JAK’s Essentials started as a solution for my kids, but it has become a full-blown movement. I’m here to change the way people see skincare, business, and self-care. And trust me, this is only the beginning.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Whew, smooth? Not at all. Building JAK’s Essentials has been a journey full of ups, downs, and everything in between. When I first started, I was just a mom trying to find a solution for my kids’ eczema. I didn’t have a big budget, a business degree, or a team—I had my kitchen, a few natural ingredients, and a whole lot of determination.
One of the biggest struggles was figuring it all out on my own. I knew I wanted to create something different, something truly effective, but I had to invest time and money into educating myself. I went back to school, and mastered the science behind skincare. But learning wasn’t the hard part—getting people to trust and buy from a small, Black-owned brand in an industry dominated by big corporations? That was tough.
There were also financial struggles. Everything I made went right back into the business—formulas, packaging, marketing, certifications. I had to be resourceful, finding ways to grow without taking on huge expenses. And let’s not even talk about the trial and error—the failed batches, the suppliers who didn’t come through, the times I questioned if I was even doing the right thing.
But through it all, I never gave up. Every challenge taught me something, every setback pushed me to go harder, and every win—big or small—reminded me why I started. JAK’s Essentials isn’t just a skincare brand; it’s my story, my passion, and my purpose. And no matter how hard the road has been, I wouldn’t trade this journey for anything.
As you know, we’re big fans of JAK’s Essentials & JAK’s Private Label Manufacturing . For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
JAK’s Essentials is more than just skincare—it’s a brand built on healing, education, and empowerment. What started in my kitchen as a solution for my kids’ eczema has grown into a business that helps people take care of their skin naturally while also creating opportunities for others to build their own brands.
What We Do & Specialize In
We focus on:
Handmade, all-natural skincare designed for real results, especially for sensitive skin, eczema, and hyperpigmentation.
Private labeling, helping aspiring entrepreneurs launch their own skincare lines with custom formulations.
Holistic health and wellness, blending skincare with herbalism, aromatherapy, and overall well-being.
Retreats and education, creating spaces for women to reset, heal, and learn about self-care beyond skincare.
What Sets Us Apart
JAK’s Essentials stands out because we combine science, nature, and purpose. With all my knowledge and expertise in skincare formulation, herbalism, aromatherapy, and holistic health care, I ensure that every product is carefully crafted for effectiveness. Unlike mass-produced brands, our approach is customized and intentional—we create skincare that works for specific needs, not just trends.
Beyond skincare, we empower other entrepreneurs by offering private label services, allowing them to start and scale their own beauty brands without the overwhelm.
What I’m Most Proud Of
JAK’s Essentials isn’t just a business—it’s a community. Seeing customers finally find products that work, watching small business owners launch their own lines, and creating retreats where women can pour into themselves—that’s what fuels me.
Why JAK’s Essentials?
If you’re looking for effective, natural skincare, need support in starting your own line, or want a space to prioritize your well-being, JAK’s Essentials has something for you. We’re here to heal, educate, and uplift—inside and out.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
Absolutely. If you’re just starting out, my biggest piece of advice is this: believe in yourself even when no one else does. Entrepreneurship is not easy, and if you’re waiting for everyone to support you or understand your vision, you’ll be waiting forever.
When I started JAK’s Essentials, I knew I had something special. I had put in the work, done the research, and gained the expertise, but that didn’t mean people automatically believed in me. Some loved ones didn’t take my business seriously, and others doubted that I had the knowledge to formulate real skincare products. I had to constantly prove myself—not just to others, but to myself—because when you don’t get immediate validation, self-doubt will creep in if you let it.
The Financial Struggle is Real
One of the hardest parts of starting a business, especially as a small, self-funded entrepreneur, is the financial struggle. I didn’t have investors or a huge budget—I had to figure out how to fund my business while still taking care of my household. Every dollar I made went right back into ingredients, packaging, certifications, and branding. There were times I had to make tough choices—invest in my business or handle personal expenses—and those moments tested my faith hard.
I wish someone had told me to:
Start lean – Don’t feel pressured to launch with everything at once. Start with your core products and perfect them before expanding.
Budget for the slow seasons – Business has ups and downs. When things are good, save.
Learn to market on a budget – Social media, word of mouth, and organic marketing will be your best friends. Don’t think you need to spend thousands on ads to grow.
Charge your worth – In the beginning, I underpriced my products because I was afraid people wouldn’t buy. But quality has value, and you deserve to be paid for your expertise.
Not Everyone Will See Your Vision—And That’s Okay
One of the hardest lessons I learned is that not everyone is going to support you, even people you love. Some will doubt you, some won’t understand why you’re investing time and money into something that isn’t instantly successful, and others will watch in silence—waiting to see if you’ll fail before they acknowledge your success.
But here’s what I know now:
You don’t need everyone to believe in you—you just need to believe in yourself.
The right people will come. Stay consistent, and over time, you’ll attract customers, supporters, and opportunities.
Your success will be your proof. Keep going, even when no one is clapping for you yet.
If I had let doubt, financial stress, or lack of immediate support stop me, JAK’s Essentials wouldn’t exist today. Keep pushing, keep learning, and keep showing up for your dreams—because no one else is going to do it for you.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.jaksessentials.com
- Instagram: https://Www.instagram.com/jaks_essentials
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jaksessentials
- Other: https://Www.jaksprivatelabel.com
