KOTRI: when science, inspiration, and beauty come together

      The KOTRI brand is a notable player in the world of premium natural cosmetics. It was created by two practicing homeopaths, Klavdiya Shakhamatova and Natalia Kolchan. The idea was born not in an office or at a laboratory table, but on the shores of the Indian Ocean. We talked with Klavdiya Shakhamatova about how inspiration turned into a successful business, the principles underlying the brand's philosophy, and why Schüssler salts could become a new trend in cosmetology.

      — Klavdiya, tell us about that moment in India when the idea to create cosmetics with Schüssler salts came about.

      It happened during one of our annual trips to India. We were studying at the International Academy of Dr. Joza Aiseka, where homeopaths from all over the world gather. In the evening, over a cup of tea at a café in the city of Trivandrum, we discussed the properties of Schüssler salts: biochemical compounds that work wonderfully both when taken internally and when applied to the skin. Among us was a colleague, a biochemist from Canada, who had already experimented with adding salts to creams and noticed a visible effect. It was she who said, "Why is no one officially producing cosmetics with Schüssler salts according to a recipe?" This phrase seemed to light a bulb! Natalia and I looked at each other and realized: this is it! Thus, the idea for the brand was born.

      — Why did the cities of Kovalam and Trivandrum become the birthplace of the brand?

      The next day, we were already sitting in a café by the ocean in Kovalam. That’s where our real brainstorming began. We started jotting down ideas, drawing a logo, and coming up with names. That’s how the name KOTRI was born — from the first syllables of the cities Kovalam and Trivandrum. Upon returning to Russia, we underwent training in the production of skincare cosmetics, purchased equipment, and began applying our knowledge in practice. We realized that professional production was essential, and we found a reliable partner — "Helper Med" in Biysk, where our creams are now created according to our proprietary recipes.

      — How much time passed from the idea to the appearance of the first batch of products?

      About fourteen months. From the February inspiration in India to April of the following year, when we held the finished bottles in our hands. It was a long but inspiring journey from idea to the "birth" of our girl, as we lovingly call KOTRI.

      — Why did you choose exactly four products to start with?

      We started with a basic set of daily care: foam, toner, face cream, and eye cream. This is the foundation of proper skincare. The foam is responsible for gentle cleansing, the toner — for restoring pH and preparing the skin for the next stage, and the face and eye creams — for nourishment and protection. Each product contains different Schüssler salts that enhance each other's effects. This complex provides a pronounced effect even without additional means.

      — What makes Schüssler salts unique and why were they not used in cosmetics before?

      This is the discovery of the German doctor Wilhelm Heinrich Schüssler from the 19th century. He studied the minerals present in the human body and found that a deficiency of certain ones leads to various pathologies, including a deterioration in skin condition. Schüssler salts replenish these deficiencies at the cellular level, helping the cell recover naturally. Why were they not used before? Because homeopathy and Schüssler biochemistry is a narrow field known mainly to naturopathic doctors. We are the first in Russia to combine this scientific approach with modern cosmetic technologies.

      — KOTRI really stands out from other brands. What are the main differences?

      Firstly, we are the first in Russia to systematically use Schüssler salts in cosmetics. Secondly, our formula is based on a multilamellar emulsion — an innovative structure that is similar in composition to skin lipids, ensuring deep penetration of active substances. Additionally, we prefer glass packaging so that the oil in the cream does not come into contact with plastic. This is important for both health and ecology. And, of course, everything is as natural as possible: 99% of the ingredients are approved by the international COSMOS standard.

      — How would you formulate the philosophy of the KOTRI brand?

      The main principles are care, mindfulness, and effectiveness. Care for oneself, for one's skin, and for the planet. Mindfulness in choosing components and in the approach to care. Effectiveness in every formula. We create a product that we are confident in regarding its quality and effectiveness! And perhaps this is the main sincerity of the brand.

      — Tell us a little about your professional journey. Have you always dreamed of being a doctor?

      You could say that medicine is in my blood, as I am a doctor in the third generation. My parents, grandmothers, and grandfathers — all in this profession. So the choice was almost obvious. I graduated from medical university, then completed an internship in therapy, and worked for 15 years as a functional diagnostics doctor. I came to homeopathy thanks to my son: he had bronchial asthma in childhood, and it was homeopathy that helped him cope with it. Since then, I am convinced that this is the science of the future.

      — What motivates you every day to work on the brand?

      The result itself motivates me. I use our cosmetics every day and see the effect. This inspires me. I want as many women (and men!) as possible to feel the same. After all, when a person sees their reflection in the mirror and likes what they see — they become happier.

      — How has your life changed since launching the brand?

      It has become much brighter and richer. I had to step out of my comfort zone, learn entrepreneurship, marketing, and management. But this is not a sacrifice, but development. When you do something with ease and love, it comes together by itself. We are growing as individuals, as specialists, and this is a great happiness.

      — If it weren't for medicine and cosmetics, what would you be doing?

      Probably tourism. I love to travel, discover new countries, meet people and learn about their culture. It fills and inspires me. Perhaps in another life, I would be a guide or create a project in the field of mindful tourism.

      — What advice would you give to those dreaming of launching their own brand?

      Trust your intuition. Follow your heart. If the idea inspires you, then you are on the right path. Everything else is a matter of time, persistence, and belief in your cause.

      KOTRI is not just cosmetics. It is a story about science, love for the craft, and faith that true quality is always felt by the skin.