Ludhiana, Punjab — In an inspiring tale of resilience and entrepreneurial spirit, Akshay and Aarushi Oswal transformed a series of business failures into a thriving direct-to-consumer (D2C) beauty brand, Océglow, which reported a revenue of ₹4 crore in the last fiscal year.
The Journey Back Home
After establishing promising careers in the United States—Akshay in biotechnology consulting and Aarushi as a makeup artist—the couple decided in 2014 to return to their roots in Ludhiana, Punjab. Motivated by a desire to be closer to family and to create something meaningful in their homeland, they embarked on an entrepreneurial journey.
Navigating Early Failures
The path to success was fraught with challenges. Over several years, Akshay ventured into four different businesses across sectors like clothing, tourism, and technology, each ending unsuccessfully. These ventures resulted in a cumulative loss of approximately ₹50 lakh. Reflecting on these setbacks, Akshay noted, “I faced multiple failures in my entrepreneurial journey. There were many moments when I felt completely lost.”
The Birth of Océglow
Undeterred by past failures, the couple identified a gap in the Indian beauty market for premium, science-backed skincare products. Combining Aarushi’s expertise in cosmetics and Akshay’s scientific background, they launched Océglow in July 2019. The brand focuses on delivering high-quality skincare solutions formulated with potent marine extracts and advanced scientific research.
Overcoming Pandemic Challenges
The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic posed significant hurdles for the fledgling brand, disrupting supply chains and consumer purchasing behaviors. However, Akshay and Aarushi adapted by enhancing their online presence and engaging directly with consumers. Their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction helped build a loyal customer base during these uncertain times.
Achieving Remarkable Growth
Through strategic digital marketing, influencer collaborations, and a focus on transparency, Océglow experienced substantial growth. The brand’s emphasis on addressing specific skincare concerns resonated with consumers, leading to impressive sales figures. In the last fiscal year, Océglow reported a revenue of ₹4 crore, marking a significant milestone in their entrepreneurial journey.
The D2C Advantage
Océglow’s direct-to-consumer model allowed the brand to maintain control over its narrative, gather real-time customer feedback, and adapt quickly to market demands. This approach not only reduced operational costs but also fostered a deeper connection with their audience, contributing to sustained growth.
Future Aspirations
Looking ahead, Akshay and Aarushi aim to expand Océglow’s product line and enter international markets. They plan to leverage emerging technologies to enhance customer experience and continue their commitment to sustainability by adopting eco-friendly packaging solutions.
Inspiring the Next Generation
The Oswals’ journey from repeated business failures to leading a successful D2C beauty brand serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs. Their story underscores the importance of resilience, adaptability, and unwavering dedication to one’s vision.
In a rapidly evolving beauty industry, Océglow stands as a testament to the potential of combining scientific innovation with entrepreneurial tenacity.