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What is the most beautiful thing about a woman? Actually, let’s make it broader\u2014what is the most beautiful thing about every one of us? We all look our best when we smile. A clich\u00e9? Not at all. I completely agree with Michala Butkov\u00e1, who knows this well because she handcrafts lipsticks and lip balms.<\/p>\n
We talked with Michala about the process of making lipsticks, the ingredients she blends them from, as well as legislation and packaging. Why did she ultimately choose plastic-and-metal packaging instead of the more environmentally friendly paper alternative? Why is she now experimenting with synthetic lipsticks as well? You’ll find the answers to these and many other questions in the video below\u2014or you can simply read the interview here.<\/p>\n
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It happened by chance. I own the Kur\u00e1\u017e store in Prague’s Letn\u00e1 district, and at the turn of 2019 I handed over the day-to-day management to my talented colleague, Eli\u0161ka Soukupov\u00e1. I needed a change of environment and wanted to immerse myself in new activities. I met many inspiring people and expanded my social bubble with new relationships and ideas. The year 2019 was a turning point for me. Everything I learned then became invaluable during the COVID year of 2020, when I started making lipsticks.<\/p>\n
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I needed the term natural to give people an idea of what to expect from the ingredients. Even more than natural, though, I focus on handcrafted. Words like organic, non-toxic, and similar labels feel too misleading to me, while natural seemed like the least complicated option.<\/p>\n
The legislation surrounding claims on packaging, the origin of raw materials, and marketing is a huge topic in itself. I think the easiest approach for customers is simply to use common sense. If they want to dig deeper, V\u00edt Syrov\u00fd’s book is an excellent resource\u2014it explains virtually every ingredient you might find in cosmetics, allowing you to judge for yourself how natural a product really is, regardless of what the label says.<\/p>\n
I’ve also been considering applying for CPK Certified Natural Cosmetics certification. However, it’s expensive\u2014it would increase the product price by roughly 40%\u2014and interestingly, the certification still allows a certain percentage of synthetic ingredients. So I’m still undecided.<\/p>\n
I believe my Lipstick Family (my testers and customers) is perfectly capable of checking the ingredient list themselves. \ud83d\ude42 And if they’re unsure, they simply ask.<\/p>\n
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I spent about nine months blending and testing them at the same time. These lipsticks were created thanks to collaboration with many amazing women. It took a while before I found the right formula. The entire development process involved questionnaires, improving formulations, consultations, and laboratory testing. My dream team at Kur\u00e1\u017e has also been an enormous help.<\/p>\n
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In simple terms, there are three stages.<\/p>\n
The first is preparing the pigments. It’s a bit like mixing paints, except it’s more challenging because you’re mixing them for one specific shade.<\/p>\n
Then comes preparing the oils and waxes. Here it’s essential to maintain the right temperatures and cool everything at exactly the right moment.<\/p>\n
Finally comes pouring the mixture into molds. From my perspective, this is the hardest part. It took me a very long time to master the technique of transferring the lipstick from the mold into the tube. Countless failed castings and remaking molds were simply part of the process. And honestly, I’m still learning.<\/p>\n
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I started researching which oils produced here in the Czech Republic are suitable for cosmetics. During that research, I discovered that the Czech Republic\u2014together with Turkey\u2014is something of a poppy seed powerhouse.<\/p>\n
I tested oils from several suppliers before finding the right one. It’s raw quality, the most expensive option, and comes from Czech fields. It also has wonderful properties that make the lipsticks incredibly comfortable to wear.<\/p>\n
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Poppy seed oil<\/strong> \u2013 keeps the lips soft and nourished.<\/p>\n Cocoa butter <\/strong>\u2013 helps soothe cracked lips and spreads beautifully.<\/p>\n Waxes <\/strong>\u2013 create a protective barrier.<\/p>\n Fragrance <\/strong>\u2013 the finishing touch that gives the lipstick its character.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=“4.23″ _module_preset=“dd44a80f-e178-438e-ae1f-7d2385f28960″ global_colors_info=“{}“ theme_builder_area=“post_content“]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=“4.23″ _module_preset=“c1471b09-4a99-4ba4-a621-4bad6a5e9619″ global_colors_info=“{}“ theme_builder_area=“post_content“]<\/p>\n The permanent collection includes ten shades. I also release seasonal limited editions, and I’ve recently introduced lip balms.<\/p>\n For about a week now, I’ve also been selling a multi-purpose tint and a hand balm. During the summer I don’t make lipsticks because of the temperatures, so I’m currently testing illuminating and mattifying powders instead.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=“4.23″ _module_preset=“dd44a80f-e178-438e-ae1f-7d2385f28960″ global_colors_info=“{}“ theme_builder_area=“post_content“]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=“4.23″ _module_preset=“c1471b09-4a99-4ba4-a621-4bad6a5e9619″ global_colors_info=“{}“ theme_builder_area=“post_content“]<\/p>\n The lipsticks have been on the market for sixteen months. Considering everything\u2014the pandemic, face masks, and the higher price caused by using mostly local ingredients\u2014I’m incredibly grateful for the support and enthusiasm of the Lipstick Community.<\/p>\n It’s worth mentioning that making lipsticks is my side business, and that was intentional from the beginning. It allows me to spend more time developing and testing products instead of rushing them onto the market before they’re truly ready.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=“4.23″ _module_preset=“dd44a80f-e178-438e-ae1f-7d2385f28960″ global_colors_info=“{}“ theme_builder_area=“post_content“]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=“4.23″ _module_preset=“c1471b09-4a99-4ba4-a621-4bad6a5e9619″ global_colors_info=“{}“ theme_builder_area=“post_content“]<\/p>\n A woman who wears many different hats in life\u2014and simply wants to make her smile shine a little brighter.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=“4.23″ _module_preset=“dd44a80f-e178-438e-ae1f-7d2385f28960″ global_colors_info=“{}“ theme_builder_area=“post_content“]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=“4.23″ _module_preset=“c1471b09-4a99-4ba4-a621-4bad6a5e9619″ global_colors_info=“{}“ theme_builder_area=“post_content“]<\/p>\n Some of my customers have been asking for a long-lasting lipstick. Unfortunately, that’s something my current formulation simply can’t achieve.<\/p>\n That’s why I’m currently developing and testing a synthetic liquid lipstick in which silicones will play the main role.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=“4.23″ _module_preset=“dd44a80f-e178-438e-ae1f-7d2385f28960″ global_colors_info=“{}“ theme_builder_area=“post_content“]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=“4.23″ _module_preset=“c1471b09-4a99-4ba4-a621-4bad6a5e9619″ global_colors_info=“{}“ theme_builder_area=“post_content“]<\/p>\n Long-lasting lipsticks are primarily made from pigments together with the silicones dimethicone <\/strong>and isododecane<\/strong>.<\/p>\n Put simply, these ingredients allow the lipstick to adhere firmly to the lips while remaining water-resistant and smudge-resistant much longer than wax-based formulations. It’s all about durability.<\/p>\n Silicones solve a very specific problem: people want their lipstick to stay on all day. If that’s the priority, these ingredients are the solution. Of course, frequent use may dry out the lips over time.<\/p>\n But imagine a bride who wants her lipstick to last for sixteen hours. In that situation, this type of product makes perfect sense. It’s all about personal choice and how often you use it.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=“4.23″ _module_preset=“dd44a80f-e178-438e-ae1f-7d2385f28960″ global_colors_info=“{}“ theme_builder_area=“post_content“]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=“4.23″ _module_preset=“c1471b09-4a99-4ba4-a621-4bad6a5e9619″ global_colors_info=“{}“ theme_builder_area=“post_content“]<\/p>\n My philosophy is always to choose the lesser evil.\u00a0You could easily create a product made entirely of synthetic ingredients. Or you can invest the effort to find a better balance.\u00a0Some formulations contain ingredients similar to those found in nail polish, while others rely on gentler synthetic alternatives. It’s important to remember that both synthetic products and products made mostly from natural ingredients consist of substances that have been tested, approved, and are legally allowed for cosmetic use.<\/p>\n As always, the dose makes the difference.\u00a0That may sound clich\u00e9, but I think people often take good intentions to extremes. The same happens with greenwashing\u2014overstating the benefits of natural ingredients. Personally, I prefer balance.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=“4.23″ _module_preset=“dd44a80f-e178-438e-ae1f-7d2385f28960″ global_colors_info=“{}“ theme_builder_area=“post_content“]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=“4.23″ _module_preset=“c1471b09-4a99-4ba4-a621-4bad6a5e9619″ global_colors_info=“{}“ theme_builder_area=“post_content“]<\/p>\n I’m a strong believer in consuming less and choosing wisely.\u00a0I don’t judge customers\u2014that’s not my role. Everyone is in a different stage of life with different priorities and possibilities.\u00a0For example, if you need a product to create a highly durable finish that lasts longer than waxes allow, silicones become the practical solution.\u00a0Or if you’re trying to mix water and oil\u2014you could keep stirring forever, or you can use a synthetic ingredient that actually makes it work.\u00a0I listen to my community, and there is genuine demand for a long-lasting lipstick. So for me, it’s a challenge worth exploring.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=“4.23″ _module_preset=“dd44a80f-e178-438e-ae1f-7d2385f28960″ global_colors_info=“{}“ theme_builder_area=“post_content“]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=“4.23″ _module_preset=“c1471b09-4a99-4ba4-a621-4bad6a5e9619″ global_colors_info=“{}“ theme_builder_area=“post_content“]<\/p>\n There are several ways to look at this issue, but I’ll repeat what I said earlier: I believe in choosing the lesser evil\u2014or more accurately, in considering the amount.\u00a0A manufacturer can either misuse the term or use it honestly. It’s a choice, just like the choices customers make when deciding which products to buy and why.\u00a0The market is the market\u2014it has its own rules.\u00a0It’s very similar to the word local.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=“4.23″ _module_preset=“dd44a80f-e178-438e-ae1f-7d2385f28960″ global_colors_info=“{}“ theme_builder_area=“post_content“]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=“4.23″ _module_preset=“c1471b09-4a99-4ba4-a621-4bad6a5e9619″ global_colors_info=“{}“ theme_builder_area=“post_content“]<\/p>\n No. The requirements are exactly the same. Anyone placing cosmetic products on the EU market must comply with the same legislation, regardless of whether the products are natural or synthetic.\u00a0That includes toxicological assessment, the product safety report, label approval, and registration in the CPNP database, the European database for cosmetic products placed on the market.\u00a0The biggest difference is simply the cost\u2014both financially and in terms of time.\u00a0Assuming everything is in order, the approval process alone takes around 90 days. From developing the initial formula to seeing the product on a store shelf, the entire journey can easily take a year.\u00a0Large companies have budgets for this. Small producers simply have to plan accordingly. That’s the reality.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=“4.23″ _module_preset=“dd44a80f-e178-438e-ae1f-7d2385f28960″ global_colors_info=“{}“ theme_builder_area=“post_content“]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=“4.23″ _module_preset=“c1471b09-4a99-4ba4-a621-4bad6a5e9619″ global_colors_info=“{}“ theme_builder_area=“post_content“]<\/p>\n For now, the only place\u2014both online and in person\u2014is Kur\u00e1\u017e.\u00a0I’ve received offers from other retailers, but my goal isn’t rapid growth. So I’m happy staying with Kur\u00e1\u017e.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=“4.23″ _module_preset=“dd44a80f-e178-438e-ae1f-7d2385f28960″ global_colors_info=“{}“ theme_builder_area=“post_content“]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=“4.23″ _module_preset=“c1471b09-4a99-4ba4-a621-4bad6a5e9619″ global_colors_info=“{}“ theme_builder_area=“post_content“]<\/p>\n I discussed the packaging with my group of testers, and the answer was clear: plastic combined with metal.\u00a0Paper simply isn’t durable enough. After a relatively short time it starts to wear out, and the product no longer looks appealing.\u00a0There’s also the hygiene aspect. You can easily wipe and clean plastic and metal packaging, but not paper. The same applies to disinfecting tester products in stores.\u00a0So in the end, plastic and metal were the obvious choice.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=“4.23″ _module_preset=“dd44a80f-e178-438e-ae1f-7d2385f28960″ global_colors_info=“{}“ theme_builder_area=“post_content“]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=“4.23″ _module_preset=“c1471b09-4a99-4ba4-a621-4bad6a5e9619″ global_colors_info=“{}“ theme_builder_area=“post_content“]<\/p>\n My customers, testers, and supporters will answer that for me.\u00a0After the pandemic, I’ve stopped making rigid long-term business plans about where I want to be. These days I follow a feeling rather than a growth target.<\/p>\n I simply hope that everything connected with the Michala brand continues to be made from quality ingredients, remains something people genuinely want, fulfills my customers‘ needs\u2014and above all, continues to make sense to me.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" What is the most beautiful thing about a woman? Actually, let’s make it broader\u2014what is the most beautiful thing about every one of us? We all look our best when we smile. A clich\u00e9? Not at all. I completely agree with Michala Butkov\u00e1, who knows this well because she handcrafts lipsticks and lip balms.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":29703,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"footnotes":""},"categories":[231,124],"tags":[],"ppma_author":[163],"yoast_head":"\nHow many shades do you offer, why these particular shades, and are you planning more?<\/h4>\n
How have your customers responded to your lipsticks?<\/h4>\n
Who is your typical customer?<\/h4>\n
You’re also planning to create synthetic lipsticks. Why?<\/h4>\n
Can you tell us what ingredients these lipsticks will contain?<\/h4>\n
Is this formulation standard across the industry?<\/h4>\n
Do you think people who love these „plastic“ lipsticks would stop using them if they knew more about their impact on health and the environment?<\/h4>\n
Let’s go back to „natural“ lipsticks. The word natural is often misused because legislation allows it. What do you think about that?<\/h4>\n
What about safety requirements? Are they different for natural and synthetic lipsticks?<\/h4>\n
Where can people buy your products? I probably won’t find them in supermarkets, right?<\/h4>\n
And what about the packaging? Does it have to be plastic?<\/h4>\n
Where do you see the Michala brand in five to ten years?<\/h4>\n