Today we’d like to introduce you to Malinda Ballesteros.
Hi Malinda, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My experience in the makeup film and television industry spans over 23 years, with a significant milestone in 2014-2017 when I served as the Head Makeup Artist on the Netflix series Bloodline. The demanding nature of handling both beauty and special effects makeup highlighted a crucial need: effective yet gentle cleansing and care for makeup tools.
Upon searching the market for a suitable solution and finding a gap, I decided to take matters into my own hands. This led to an extensive process of research and development to create a product that met the high standards I uphold in my craft. The outcome of this endeavor is the Castile Cosmetic Brush Wash by RIMA Cosmetics, a formulation made with four enriching oils. This product not only quickly and impeccably cleanses an array of beauty tools, including brushes, sponges, and puffs, but it also distinguishes itself by providing a conditioning element.
The Castile Cosmetic Brush Wash is more than a utilitarian product; it embodies the culmination of my professional journey. Every facet of this formulation reflects my years of experience, commitment to excellence, and passion for the art of makeup. As the Founder of RIMA Cosmetics, I take immense pride in presenting a product that transcends conventional standards, offering a harmonious blend of efficacy and care for our tools. Makeup brushes are an important investment and I have brought 20-year-old brushes back to their glory days with this solution.
I extend my gratitude for allowing me to articulate the story behind this product, which stands as a testament to the dedication and precision inherent in the beauty industry. I am eager to introduce the Castile Cosmetic Brush Wash to discerning professionals who, like myself, seek a product that aligns seamlessly with the elevated standards of our craft.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The journey of creating RIMA Cosmetics has been both challenging and rewarding. At the outset, I had no prior experience in product creation, making the entire process a steep learning curve. The motivation behind starting this venture stemmed from a personal desire to develop a product that initially catered to my own needs, eventually evolving into a passion to share it with fellow makeup professionals and enthusiasts.
The realization that I needed to break down the monumental task into smaller, manageable steps was a pivotal moment. Instead of fixating on the distant end goal, I focused on daily goals, ranging from formulating solutions to testing variations, designing labels, packaging, and crafting a brand identity. While the workload seemed overwhelming, taking it step by step and setting these daily goals made the seemingly unobtainable dream more achievable.
Creating the prototype for the two hero products marked a significant milestone, prompting a deep commitment to see the project through. The sense of accomplishment upon the launch was not only rewarding but also signaled the beginning of the second act in my career. While there is still much to be done, the satisfaction, pride, and belief in the long-term potential of RIMA Cosmetics fuel my determination to continue pushing forward.
The decision to launch, even with the awareness that there were still numerous tasks ahead, was a crucial turning point. As a friend wisely advised, “Just launch and take it from there.” The post-launch phase has indeed brought about continuous changes and adjustments. Nevertheless, viewing these as part of an ongoing journey rather than insurmountable obstacles has been key to my resilience.
My extensive career as a makeup artist, particularly in the dynamic and demanding film industry, played an important role in providing me with the resilience, longevity, and patience needed to navigate the challenges of creating a brand like RIMA Cosmetics. While the transition from the hands-on, artistic world of makeup application to the intricate process of brand creation posed a significant shift, the work ethic cultivated over the years in the industry became a steadfast foundation.
The fast-paced and detail-oriented nature of working in film honed my ability to stay focused under pressure and execute with precision. This professional background instilled in me a tenacity that proved invaluable when faced with the unfamiliar terrain of entrepreneurship. It reinforced the understanding that success is often a result of dedication, perseverance, and a commitment to seeing a vision through, qualities that have undoubtedly contributed to the realization and continued growth of RIMA Cosmetics.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Hello there, I’m Malinda Ballesteros, the Founder of RIMA Cosmetics, and I’m excited to share the story of our brand with you. At RIMA, we’ve delved into the world of brush washing, introducing a product close to my heart – the Castile Cosmetic Brush Wash.
What makes our brush wash stand out? It’s a thoughtful blend of four powerhouse oils – Olive Oil, Coconut Oil, Cocoa Butter, and Kukui Nut Oil. Inspired by the chemistry principle “like cleanses like,” these oils work harmoniously to gently dissolve all traces of makeup from your brushes, be it powder, cream, or waterproof formulas. What’s special is that, as your brushes get their much-needed cleanse, they also enjoy a nourishing treatment, leaving them not just clean but irresistibly soft and lightly scented once they dry. We also have an unscented formula for those who have sensitivities.
What sets RIMA apart is our commitment to a 100% natural formula. No harsh chemicals here. We’ve opted for the purity of organic Olive Oil, Coconut Oil, and Cocoa Butter. It’s about embracing the simplicity and effectiveness of nature to make the process of brush cleaning quick and easy, giving you more time to create.
One of the aspects I hold close to my heart is the community we’ve built at RIMA. It’s not just a brand; it’s a gathering place for creatives from diverse corners of the makeup world. I find immense joy in seeing the support within our community, a tapestry of ages and artistic styles coming together.
As we step into 2024, there’s a sense of anticipation. We’re planning to introduce a new scent to our collection and a few surprises that will be unveiled at the right moment. The Castile Cosmetic Brush Wash wasn’t just crafted for the market – it was created for my personal use, ensuring a product that reflects care and expertise. Made by a professional artist, for professionals and makeup enthusiasts alike.
I invite you to become a part of our community and explore the authenticity and charm that RIMA Cosmetics brings to the world of makeup. Here’s to a year of creativity, connection, and beautifully cleansed brushes.
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
One surprising aspect of my journey that many people may not know is the pivotal decision I made after welcoming my second child. Motherhood transformed my perspective, and I realized the importance of balancing my passion for makeup artistry with being present for my family.
So, after my son’s arrival, I decided to take a step back from the hectic world of working on film sets and dove into the realm of makeup education, specializing in character makeup. This shift allowed me to consistently share my expertise while having more control over my time. It was a profound “aha” moment that ultimately fueled the creation of RIMA.
Choosing to prioritize my family and craft a schedule that aligned with my values was a game-changer. I don’t regret stepping away from the fast-paced film and show industry. Instead, I find joy in being present for my family’s growth and cherish all the moments.
The creation of RIMA isn’t just about makeup; it’s about sculpting a life that allows me to be there for my loved ones. This journey, though different from what people might expect, is incredibly fulfilling. I’ve discovered that life’s about more than just helping others bring their dreams to life; it’s about bringing my dreams to fruition.
Through this shift, I hope to inspire my daughter and son to pursue their passions and craft lives that bring them joy. Life is indeed a journey, and I’m grateful for the twists and turns that have led me to where I am today.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.rima-cosmetics.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_rimacosmetics_/
Image Credits
Tommy Chung and Haley’s Studio
