Deepti Gujar Kulkarni’s journey from skincare consumer to entrepreneur is a testament to how personal challenges can inspire professional success. Initially struggling with severe acne, Kulkarni sought the help of dermatologists and began using recommended skincare products. While some of these products were ineffective, others helped clear her acne, sparking a deeper curiosity about the ingredients and their effects.
Her interest led her to study aesthetic ingredient science, where she gained a profound understanding of skin anatomy and ingredient efficacy. This knowledge prompted her to experiment with homemade skincare formulations, which received positive feedback from friends and family. Encouraged by her husband and motivated by her newfound passion, Kulkarni launched her skincare brand, KassCare, in 2022.
KassCare, based in Kolkata, offers a diverse range of products aimed at addressing issues such as aging and acne. The brand’s lineup includes face washes, serums, night creams, and products for oil control and anti-aging. Prices range from Rs 970 to Rs 1,650. In addition to skincare, KassCare also features a bath and body range.
Kulkarni’s entrepreneurial spirit is rooted in her childhood experiences. Growing up in a family business, she gained early insights into customer service while assisting in her father’s watch store in Pune. Her exposure to business operations was furthered when her father became a distributor for Titan, which involved attending conferences and market research.
Determined to pursue a career in marketing, Kulkarni earned a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce followed by an MBA in Marketing Management from Symbiosis Institute of Business Management in Pune. Her professional career began at L’Oréal, where she was involved in market research and product launches. However, upon her father’s health decline, she returned home to help manage the family’s clock brand, OPAL. After her marriage and relocation to Kolkata, Kulkarni took a sabbatical to focus on family before turning her attention to skincare.
Her personal struggle with skin issues eventually led her to further her education in skincare science, including obtaining certification in aesthetician ingredient science and a degree in organic skincare formulation from Formula Botanica in London. Kulkarni emphasizes that effective skincare is about making informed choices and addressing root causes.
KassCare initially offered skin tests and consultations but discontinued these services four months ago. Kulkarni plans to introduce an auto-screening system and hire aestheticians to enhance customer experience. The brand aims to develop a digital tool on its website to help customers identify their skin types and select appropriate products.
The brand prides itself on using natural ingredients like Cell di Tox, CERAmix, and Peptide P3, sourced from extracts such as potatoes, sunflowers, and olive squalene. KassCare products are available on major e-commerce platforms including Nykaa, Amazon, Flipkart, and Meesho.
Looking ahead, Kulkarni plans to expand KassCare’s presence through retail kiosks in chains like Westside, Lifestyle, and Pantaloons, and explore opportunities in Tata Cliq and premium malls. Additionally, the brand intends to establish experience centers in large department stores like Shoppers Stop and Lifestyle.
Despite facing challenges, including skepticism about the seriousness of her venture and the personal difficulties of returning to work after a break, Kulkarni remains determined. “The key is to constantly learn and upgrade your skills. You will always need help in some form, so don’t be afraid to ask for it,” she advises.
Kulkarni’s journey underscores the transformative power of turning personal struggles into professional achievements, driven by resilience and a commitment to continuous learning.
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