By Neha Mehrotra
30-May-2024
Driven by a desire to bridge the gap between technology and tradition and embrace modern science, multi-hyphenate entrepreneur Rajshree Pathy launched Qi Ayurveda, which centres around the concept of ‘Qi’, akin to the Sanskrit term Prana, symbolising the vital energy that interconnects the body, mind, and spirit, fostering balance and harmony. Guided by her childhood experiences and a profound understanding of Ayurveda, Rajshree embarked on a mission to modernise traditional self-care practices, resulting in a holistic approach to wellness.
In an exclusive conversation with GlobalSpa, Rajshree Pathy explores the inspiration behind Qi Ayurveda, the range of product offerings, and her vision for the future of Ayurveda and skincare.
1. What made you take the plunge into Ayurveda again with Qi Beauty?
I asked myself how I could take Ayurveda to the next level. The time has arrived to bridge the gap between technology and tradition and embrace modern science. This is because it does not prevent anyone from maintaining a cultural identity. No tradition is a static entity; modernity results from evolving traditions. Haircare Ayurveda-based products with actives of high quality do not exist in the market currently. With my extensive knowledge of Ayurveda, I know for certain that specific oils exist to address the problems of scalp and hair for all genders: hair loss, dandruff, premature greying, itchy scalp, and so on. I decided that this was our priority. Next, we will be addressing face care.
2. With market boundaries blurring and the concept of beauty becoming more fluid, competition in the Ayurveda-led luxe beauty space is intensifying. How do you plan to stay relevant amidst the competition?
Our products are made with the objective of combining traditional Ayurveda with modern science and research in Western beauty, research, and technology. There are hundreds of brands in this space in Ayurveda, and many of them are luxury brands. I believe there is space for a product like ours. Competition is always healthy, as it keeps brands accountable to consumers. Whatever is good and has integrity will always have its own place. I felt that this is the opportune moment for Ayurveda to integrate with modern science, and after several years of experimenting with formulation, Qi Ayurveda has been created for the consumer who recognises that this is the need of the moment.
3. Can you take us through the product offerings at Qi Ayurveda?
We have launched four ranges: Wellness, Restore, Hydrate and Nourish, respectively. The Wellness range is infused with actives derived from black oats and soybeans. This reinforces the hair’s natural moisturising factor by storing water in the hair cells. The Restore range is infused with Swiss-certified actives derived from green micro-algae and white lupin, which are rich in amino acids, proteins, minerals, and vitamins that repair hair from within. The Hydrate Range is infused with Swiss-certified actives derived from olive leaf extracts containing oleuropein, a multifunctional ingredient for healthy hair, while jujubosides from jujube seeds have an antifungal effect and strengthen the scalp's antioxidant protection system. The Nourish Range is infused with Swiss actives that contain a potent blend of extracts from barley grass and rosmarinic acid that activate and promote the body’s endogenous protective mechanisms. This powerful formulation restores the balance of hair and scalp, acting as a shield against urban environmental and UV-ray-induced stress and deterring premature greying.
4. How do you ensure that your products maintain the authenticity of Ayurvedic principles while incorporating modern scientific advancements?
We identified 4 of the most potent Ayurvedic hair oils, which have proven over hundreds of years to assist in premature greying, hair loss, dandruff, and cooling the head, hair, and scalp. These four issues confront all of us and are therefore vital. Our oils are pure “Thailems” and come to you directly from the “urulis,” or metal vessels, where they are processed. No carrier oils are added! We have developed the shampoos and conditioners with these oils and Swiss botanical actives to enhance their natural properties.
5. Where does Qi Ayurveda stand in terms of sustainability?
Our packaging is one hundred percent recyclable; the paper cartons are one hundred percent biodegradable; and the pet bottles are of the highest quality and are recyclable. We use glass for our oils. Our products are responsibly sourced and produced using natural methods in traditional factories. Our brand design is deliberately simplistic to avoid adding cost to the entire design and branding package. Whatever the consumer pays for the product goes mostly into the quality of the product and research and very little into the branding and packaging.
6. What does the future of Ayurveda and skincare look like?
I believe this is the opportune moment to integrate Ayurveda with modern beauty science. Ayurveda is timeless, but this will make it relevant for contemporary usage. The roadmap for Qi Ayurveda is centred around expanding our presence globally, while staying true to our core values of authenticity and efficacy. We aim to continue innovating and creating products that combine Ayurvedic traditions with modernity, providing consumers with transformative skincare and haircare solutions. Our focus remains on delivering a holistic wellness experience to our customers.
