Blending Science and Nature: Dr. Neeta Kapadia on Co-Founding Luxury Skincare Brand Rare Chemistry
by Komal Darji Industry Watch | November 8, 2024 | Interview
Rare Chemistry Dr. Neeta Kapadia
Dr. Neeta Kapadia is truly a woman of many talents! Alongside her successful medical practice, she's also an entrepreneur. She and her daughter, Rhea Kapadia, co-founded Rare Chemistry—a luxury skincare brand designed for women of all ages and skin types. Rare Chemistry combines advanced dermatological ingredients with rare botanical extracts for an effective, toxin-free skincare experience. If you want to learn more, check out www.rare-chemistry.com.
In an exclusive with EVENTFAQS Media, Dr. Neeta shares her journey from medicine to luxury branding, co-founding with her daughter, and advises women entrepreneurs to prioritize authenticity and quality.
Dr. Neeta, after more than twenty years in a thriving medical career, what inspired you to become an entrepreneur?
I've always been interested in skincare—especially the natural kind. My mother, who was still radiant at 73 years young, was my biggest inspiration. Growing up, our kitchen was the go-to for skincare; we’d use whatever was available to whip up simple yet effective treatments. When my daughter grew up, I wanted her to experience the same care, but I quickly realized that her skin was different, and even her generation’s approach to skincare had changed.
These days, we don’t have the luxury of spending hours on home remedies, and with all the lifestyle changes, pollution, screen time, and stress, skin needs more immediate solutions. During the COVID lockdown, Rhea and I spent time discussing skincare, researching ingredients, and, with a Dermatologist friend’s help, I began formulating products. We didn’t set out to build a brand, but the idea grew and eventually became Rare Chemistry—something I now hope to nurture as a legacy.
Why did you choose to create a luxury brand rather than a mass-market one?
Our products are for consumers who value pure, safe ingredients, even if they come at a premium. We never compromise on quality, which is why we use rare and exotic botanical extracts, often imported, to ensure toxin-free formulations.
We also believe that skincare is a luxury all women should aspire to enjoy. Women often focus so much on family and work that they forget to care for themselves. As a doctor, I know the skin reflects overall health and happiness, so a good skincare routine isn’t just about looking good; it’s a way for women to invest in their well-being. We want every woman to indulge in the luxury of nourishing her skin with the best of science and nature—that’s our mantra at Rare Chemistry.
What’s it like working with your daughter as a co-founder? Does it change the mother-daughter dynamic?
It does a bit, with both pros and cons. For example, there are times I see her pushing herself too hard; as her mother, I’d like to tell her to ease up, but as her co-founder, I can’t always do that. On the flip side, I’m learning so much from her about Gen Z and Millennial media habits—it’s like the roles have reversed from when she was younger!
I’d say our bond has grown stronger since we’re both so invested in this shared goal. Being mother and daughter brings an ease of understanding, which is a real perk.
What advice do you have for other women entrepreneurs?
Don’t be too hard on yourselves. Don’t hesitate to ask family and friends for support, and enjoy the journey of building your venture. Remember, we all become entrepreneurs because we’re passionate about something we love doing, and that passion should never fade in the rush for success. Prioritize your mental and physical well-being over business metrics. And if nothing else, start a self-care routine—beginning, of course, with Rare Chemistry skincare!
In an exclusive with EVENTFAQS Media, Dr. Neeta shares her journey from medicine to luxury branding, co-founding with her daughter and advises women entrepreneurs to prioritize authenticity & quality.