Episode 17: Zhi Bath and Body and Kim Cross

Aug 1, 2020

There is no doubt the cosmetic and skincare industries are both booming. With brands like Rodan Fields, Proactive, and others targeting those with skin ailments, there are many options to choose from.

 

For years, Kim Cross of Charlotte, NC searched for mild products to help with her dry, itchy skin but consistently came up short when reading the list of ingredients. She realized how many irritating chemicals are used and set out to find comparable natural substitutes that would deliver the same or better results. As a former hairstylist, she was introduced to the hair product Carol’s Daughter’ years ago and loved that it used mainly natural ingredients that she could actually pronounce.

 

In 2006, Kim followed that example and began researching essential oils and other liquids that she thought could be beneficial. That led to experimenting, testing, and creating with goat’s milk. She discovered that goat’s milk has fatty acids which have healing properties and is less harsh than many other ingredients.

 

She started mixing various ingredients with different properties and fragrances and settled on a few things even the men in her house swear by. “I have some girly smelling men in my house and they love it!” Kim laughs. Since her start, she has incorporated men’s products also.

 

The next year, she crafted body lotion, hand and body wash, and soap, each from goat’s milk. Kim began selling her new skincare line, called Zhi (pronounced ‘Chee’) Bath and Body, at a women’s expo. Unfortunately, her sales were disappointingly low but her sample supply had diminished. She knew she was on to something but needed to continue working on it. Since then she has created other products made from organic mango butter, shea butter, cocoa butter and many other natural ingredients.

 

As the line grew, Kim continued to spend hours seeking out the best and most natural products to ensure she was delivering something she could be proud of. She knew that if it didn’t work on her skin, it wouldn’t work on anyone else’s either. In 2011, the entrepreneur was formally diagnosed with psoriasis, a condition in which skin cells build up to form scales and itchy, dry patches. Sometimes the patches are accompanied by blisters. It’s similar to eczema but much more intense, painful, and stubborn.

 

Her next step is to raise enough money to purchase barcodes that allow her products to be sold in larger stores. She is also customizing products for other companies to sell in their establishments. The majority of her current sales are through her website, word-of-mouth, and regular customers that buy in bulk to give it to friends and family on special occasions.

Kim knows that expanding will take more time and it seems that she’s up for the challenge. Her dedication is unwavering as she sets out to heal one person at a time.

 

To learn more about Kim Cross and Zhi Bath and Body, please follow them on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pintrest.  You may also visit their website at www.zhibathandbody.com

 

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