Meet Rajendra Chirumamilla | Research Scientist, PhD Biotechnology

When the company I was working for had layoffs, my position was affected.  I was not prepared for that change to be forced upon me nor wanted to stop doing what I love. And I started Monaesi Phytoceuticals ( a.k.a Monaesi Skincare) a skincare manufacturing company. It is was my dream since undergraduate college days to have my own research company.  At Monaesi Skincare, our mission is to do right by the people whether it’s with our customers by providing clean, skin safe and highly efficient products or with our team members by providing a stress free, inclusive work space uplifting each other.

Monaesi Skincare is a premium indie skincare brand providing clean, plant-based, and inclusive products that are multifunctional and skin safe. Our products are unique in that they are designed to work with natural skin chemistries at the cellular and molecular level so the skin is empowered to be at its best naturally. They can be used by all skin tones and skin types including those with sensitive skin. Our products bring an overall balance in the skin which will result in healthy and glowing skin. Every product is made to provide multiple benefits so our customers can have a sustainable skincare routine and does not have to spend elaborate time or money to care for their skin. We also focus on proving concept based products. Our first product line Trouvaille is an age and lifestyle inclusive treatment line to help skin cope with the changes it goes through because of age. This line addresses from wrinkles to dry skin and everything in between to help skin feel be balanced and at its best. Each product has minimum of 7 actives to provide multiple benefits to the skin. We have very satisfied customers who have experienced a shift in their skin health within a few weeks of using them. We are working on menopause concept currently. We are also a very environmentally conscious company and incorporate sustainability and earth-friendly practices in every aspect of our operations. From ingredient sourcing to the type of packaging we use, to our give-back programs we focus on being eco and climate friendly.

As a brand, I feel very proud when our customers say that our products had made a difference to their skin. We are also excited that we are getting many custom requests towards new product development. We have developed products to help tackle eczema, acne, menopause skin issues and hyperpigmentation for some of our customers. Some of these products have not been added to our website but are available to purchase if anyone needs.  We are very thankful and grateful to our customers for supporting and trusting us with their skincare needs and appreciate every customer. We are very happy that we are finally able to share our knowledge and experience that we have gained over 25 years working in this industry directly with our customers now.

My transition from working at a corporate to setting up Monaesi Skincare occurred during covid time due to lay offs . I was then working for a personal care product manufacturing company leading the R&D product development team. Covid has pushed me to get out of my comfort zone. The transition has been challenging in that now I am changing my hats to other roles beyond just doing R&D work.

The skincare industry is a very competitive industry. This makes our path very challenging because we are a couple of scientists with passion in our hearts and the desire to make a difference. We want to provide a safe space for our customers where they can shop worry-free of skin safety and get highly efficient products. I suffered from Rosacea and I could not find a one-stop product to help me meet my skin goals without having to worry about safety and sensitivity. This is why we focus on  providing clean, plant-based, inclusive products that are skin safe, multifunctional and can be used by all skin tones and skin types.

I love hanging out in Fortworth Downtown. It has its own charm and flair. So that will definitely be a stop. One of my favorite restaurants is Athenos, a greek restaurant in Mesquite. I also like strolling on Legacy west and enjoying a glass of wine on one of the patios. Another day we will be exploring the streets of Deep Ellum, enjoying the food, and activities. I would also like to have a picnic at the White Rock Lake and relax. If the wether permits, botanical gardens will be another day trip too.

I would like to thank my family and friends who have been of immense support to me. I appreciate them a lot. I want to dedicate this shoutout to my late father who is my inspiration. I also want to thank my sons Veer and Ved Bhandaru, for constantly reminding me that I should not give up and pursue my dreams. Ved had been my emotional pillar. A special shoutout to Veer for helping me with many operations at a technical level such as package designing and website maintenance.