Better Than Bath Bombs: Bubblemaker&co Makes Waves!

When the Covid-19 pandemic hit, Li Yuen realised the constant handwashing for cleanliness would pose a problem for those with sensitive skin. In her search to find the perfect formulation for hygiene, Bubblemaker&co was born! Today, the brand’s catalogues boast a huge array of personal care products – and bubble bath boosters that are 100% better than mass-produced bath bombs.

We’re bombastically side-eyeing one another in delight! With an amazing array products, Bubblemaker&co’s bubble bath boosters are better than garden-variety bath bombs. Read on to find out more about them!

Tell us about yourself! How and why did you decide to start Bubblemaker&co?

My name is Li Yuen, and I’m the founder of Bubblemaker&co! Our local brand produces a range of handmade bath and body products. I founded the brand at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, when society was collectively focused on the importance of hygiene. The constant need to wash our hands with commercial soap caused skin irritation and dryness. This was especially true for my family members with sensitive skin. Their predicaments inspired me to create a natural soap that is suitable for me, my family, and people like us with sensitive skin!

What was the journey of ideating and conceptualising your brand like? Additionally, how did you learn to make your own products? Who or what was your best teacher during this time?

We aim to produce natural and skin-loving products that are affordable and suitable for all skin types. I started researching soapmaking ingredients and key components that cause skin irritation.  With this information, I was able to determine alternative natural ingredients that are gentler on sensitive skin. From there on, I honed my skills by attending soap-making classes, reading books, and watching online videos. I went through numerous experiments for trial and error before coming up with my very first recipe.

Share five ways your products are unique!

Bubblemaker&co products are: Handmade, Natural, Vegan, Paraben-free, and Cruelty-free.

What are some must-have, as well as some hell-no ingredients that you look out for in skin and body care products? Tell us about these, and why they are good and bad respectively.

I look out for paraben. Most cosmetic products include parabens as preservatives to lengthen their shelf lives. However, parabens can elevate cellular level damage caused by UV exposure, which may even cause skin cancer. Parabens can also sensitise the skin, causing allergic reactions. Therefore, we avoid using parabens, so our customers can enjoy the best natural ingredients in our products.

What’s your most unpopular opinion about other generic mass-produced bubble bath products and bath bombs in the market?

In comparison with our products, generic bubble bath and bath bomb products in the market might contain harsh foaming agents. This way, mass producers can reduce their costs, and yet create maximum bubbling at a minimal ingredient cost. Unfortunately, the cost-cutting exercise can negatively impact consumers’ skin.

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Where do you source the ingredients and materials for your products? Do you think it’s important to source high-quality ingredients, and do you think it translates into the quality of the final product?

We source ingredients from local suppliers with certified high-quality imported ingredients. These ingredients translate into high-quality skin-loving products that can be used by anyone. Everything comes at a cost, but we do our best to ensure our products are very affordably priced. This is so we can allow our customers to enjoy our best, all-natural bubble baths!

Name five essentials that you need to take your relaxing bubble bath from good to great!

When it comes to having the best bubble bath experience, do not leave out your favourite slow background music! This can help you to relax and unwind after a long day. Don’t forget a tablet by the tub for a movie, scented candles to lift up the mood, a glass of wine, and a small bowl of snacks.

Most Malaysians do not have access to bathtubs at home. As a bonafide bubble bath expert, which locations have you visited, that you think are amazing options for staycations where one can use your bubble baths, and why do you love these places?

I had one of my recent favourite bubble bath experiences at a staycation in The Taaras Beach & Spa Resort. Their rooms were renovated and fitted with bathtubs overlooking the ocean. The bathtubs also had a whirling pool option which turned my bath into a jacuzzi. This was the best of both worlds!

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What is one thing you wish you knew at the start of your entrepreneurial journey that would have been a big help?

I wish I knew then that there would be many opinions and objections along my journey, and that none of it should hold me back. I now know that I can take these opinions and objections, and turn them into motivation and opportunities.

How do you balance life as an entrepreneur running a small business and your personal life? How do you manage your stress levels when it all gets too much?

During the early days of my business, I spent some days working through the night. Likewise, with my weekends. All of this was so I could produce enough stocks for sales during good periods. However, at this point, I could not balance my work and life. Mental health is just as important as physical health, so a short getaway is essential for refreshing the mind, body, and soul when we feel tired and demotivated. This is where bubble baths come in handy! Self love is essential. Likewise, effective time management is a key factor in achieving success, both in business and in life.

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