About

About Lori and the Parkwood Essentials story:

Hey, I'm Lori, the maker behind Parkwood Essentials.

WHY THIS STARTED: As a beauty industry veteran of nearly 20 years and former cosmetologist, I’ve tried countless skincare products, many promising miracles but delivering disappointment. I was frustrated by overhyped marketing and ineffective multi-step routines; I grew disillusioned with corporate-driven beauty regimens, buzz words and "innovations" that were just producing more of the same for my troubled skin. 

My battle with "bad" skin has been lifelong—blemishes, dryness, redness, congestion--you name it.  For my entire adult life I've been chasing the magical unicorn products that will finally "fix" my skin and all this quest had gotten me so far was a “graveyard” of half-used products that either didn't do anything for me, OR WORSE actually inflamed my skin more.  I was spending hundreds of dollars on chemical peels at the esthetician, which although it was nice and I love getting facials... but my skin just kept reverting back to the way it always had been.  Was this just my lot in life?

THEN CAME THE EPIPHANY: After years of blaming “bad skin” on genetics, I discovered the real root cause of my issue... and it was all related gut health.  I'll spare you my entire "awakening" on the topic, but let's just say I traded those dollars I was spending of facials and acne serums, and instead started investing in nutrition books, probiotics and detoxifying herbs to reduce inflammation in my entire body.  EVERYTHING improved, and wouldn't you know it? My skin just followed suit and started clearing up too. I realized that topical skincare could only do so much--and boy was it was time to simplify!

In search of anti-inflammatory ingredients and a desire to get back to basics, I embraced tallow: a natural, toxin-free, deeply nourishing ingredient used to moisturize skin for centuries. This ultimately led me to making my first batch of cold-process soap, and the rest is history! I was "bit by the soapmaking bug" and instantly loved it.  I found my passion for creating simple, nature-inspired products for those, like me, seeking alternatives to mainstream beauty and health... and that was the beginning.

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My Ethos:

SIMPLE: Minimal, anti-inflammatory ingredients in one-step products. Our black-and-white aesthetic reflects our authentic, no-fuss approach. 

LOW-WASTE: Plastic-free always, from bar soaps to future home goods like dish soap blocks and laundry detergents.  Refillable candles so your vessels don't become disposable.  Handcrafted heirloom pieces sourced from other artisans that you'll treasure instead of toss.  Home goods made from natural materials that ground you and are kinder to the earth.  My dream? A brick-and-mortar refillery store to take the low-waste home goods vision to the next level.

FEEL-GOOD: Always focused on healing and treating yourself with kindness.  We infuse a little bit of joy through nostalgic 60s, 70s, and 80s song-inspired scent names, complete with a playlist to uplift your spirit. Share your song ideas at lori@parkwoodessentials.com!

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This growing product line nurtures skin and spirit, building a community of people reclaiming their health with glowing results. That’s feel-good skincare!