Developing a technique to infuse seaweed with coconut oil has helped a Highland scallop diver to launch an all-natural cosmetics line.
Ben Oakes set up the Sconser-based Isle of Skye Seaweed Company six months ago and the 26-year-old has since secured 16 stockists for his lip, hand and body balms, blending the marine algae with ingredients including mango and peppermint.
VisitScotland’s Portree iCentre became the latest outlet to stock the products this month and Mr Oakes is in talks with potential distributors in the US.
The entrepreneur plans to launch an e-commerce website along with two new products – a wild seaweed and lavender bath bomb and wild seaweed beard oil – over the coming months.
Mr Oakes said: “Hand diving for scallops is very seasonal so during the quieter winter months I spent my time thinking up business ideas.
“Originally, I wanted to sustainably harvest seaweed to sell to the food and catering industry but the start-up costs were too prohibitive. I then read about using seaweed in cosmetics.
“It took me two years to figure out how to infuse local seaweed with coconut oil so that the oil turns green and carries the salty scent of the sea.
“Men and women of all ages love the range as it is all natural and there are no harmful parabens (preservatives) or harsh chemicals used.”
Mr Oakes gained a degree in sustainable environmental management from Edinburgh University before an apprenticeship with his family’s scallop business.
He had support from Business Gateway Highland (BGH) to launch his cosmetics venture.
“With my adviser’s help I successfully applied for a loan from the Highland Council Loan Fund and that allowed me to buy the production equipment I needed and sort out my branding,” he said, adding: “My adviser really gave me the extra kick and boost needed.”
Emma Lawson, of BGH, said: “Ben has big plans for his business, initially launching a cosmetics range but also with an eye to one day expanding to provide sustainably harvested seaweed to the food industry.
“Getting a business started with limited finance is hard so, using our advice and knowledge, he was able to successfully secure the money he needed to launch and put a plan in place that will help guide him as he grows his enterprise.”
