What if you could bring some of the many benefits of visiting a MedSpa home with you? With STARLA, you can. This 7-in-1 LED Light Therapy Mask was inspired by the various professional treatments available with the added accessibility of using it in your own space, on your own time.
Founded by Icey Roongpiti, the development of the STARLA brand and its product offering began during the pandemic.
"When COVID-19 hit, I wanted to bring LED Light Therapy into my home, but found existing masks uncomfortable, unbreathable, and lacking the combined lights needed for multiple skin concerns," Roongpiti shares.
The STARLA founder has personally experienced a radical evolution of her own skincare journey. As a teenager, she dealt with sensitive and acne-prone skin and required frequent visits to dermatologists in her home country. When Roongpiti moved to the US, she became even more frustrated trying to find new resources from scratch.
Eventually she returned to Asia and had the exciting discovery of LED Light Therapy at a MedSpa, which she found to be an incredibly effective treatment option for her acne and post-acne scars.
"I noticed doctors also used this therapy to help post-cosmetic surgery patients heal faster. After seeing my own skin improve with fewer breakouts and a healthier appearance, I became convinced of its efficacy," Roongpiti says.
Named for Roongpiti's grandmother "Starla" and the fact that LED Light Therapy literally shines brightly in darkness, much like a star, STARLA was born.
"Just as stars need darkness to shine, my insecurities with acne and blemishes led me to create this brand. I wanted to empower women to feel beautiful in their unique way, supported by innovative and sustainable beauty solutions. The name ‘Starla’ perfectly embodies the feminine essence of a star—shining brightly in its own beauty," the brand founder explains.
For Roongpiti, her grandmother Starla had always been a symbol of unconditional love, confidence, and beauty. The Starla was also a skincare entrepreneur herself.
"Her entrepreneurial spirit and fun-loving nature left a lasting impression on me. This experience inspired me to create a brand that makes customers feel loved and cared for while enjoying the products," Roongpiti says.
Backed by NASA research, LED light therapy is an effective and sustainable skincare solution that, when used consistently, helps to promote long-term skin health overall.
"It's not a one-time miracle cure," the STARLA founder stresses.
What it is though is a non-invasive treatment option with efficacy that's apparent after user patience and regular use.
"Many people don’t realize that your skin’s health is linked to various factors, including stress, hormones, diet, and overall well-being, and that LED therapy is one part of a holistic skincare routine that can better your life," says Roongpiti.
Currently on sale on the brand site, the STARLA 7-in-1 LED Light Therapy Mask retails for $222.00 (regularly $399.99) and is recommend for use at least 1x daily for a 15-minute session.
Key Device Benefits Include:
Reduces wrinkles, fine lines & age spots
Reduces redness & inflammation
Reduces acne & post-acne blemishes
Tightens skin & increases plumpness
Evens out skin tone & calms irritation
Increases collagen & produces a radiant glow
As the popularity of LED devices increases for consumers at home, Roongpiti urges responsible usage.
"It’s important to ensure that any device you use on your skin is FDA-cleared, as the STARLA 7-in-1 LED Light Therapy Mask is. Larger devices that cover more surface area tend to be more effective in light therapy. Ultimately, customers should make informed decisions about what works best for them," the founder explains.
Roongpiti has always been interested in skincare and an active participant in the beauty industry. She grew up around Med Spas, pharmacies, and cosmetic surgery practices owned by various family members and because of this, has been able to witness the evolution of the space in the market.
We were also curious to hear about Roongpiti's current skincare routine since implementing STARLA into her regimen. Interestingly enough, she's been able to simplify thing with the device incorporation.
"I start with my favorite peptide serum before putting on the mask. If I need an extra boost for a glam day, I’ll use a sheet mask after the peptide serum, either before or underneath the LED mask. Simplicity is key," she shares.
The Greatest Joy of Founding STARLA?
For Roongpiti, it's been having the opportunity to meet so many incredible people.
"I’ve learned from mentors who are founders, executives, and collaborated with top influencers who all contribute to who I am today. I’ve learned a lot from them and love to continue learning and growing. These opportunities wouldn’t have come my way if I hadn’t taken action to create my brand," she shares.
Unexpected challenges?
As an international entrepreneur, Roongpiti has experienced plenty of learning moments when it comes to documentation and visa approvals needed to start her business. She's waited through lengthy transitions and has even experienced being stuck at the airport one time.
"There was a time I had to fly back to my home country even though my destination was the United States due to visa issues. My determination to do things right has made patience a crucial part of overcoming these challenges," she explains.
What's the Ultimate Vision for STARLA?
Roongpiti hopes to create a prestigious global brand that seamlessly blends beauty and technology and produces a positive impact on her community worldwide.
"Having lived in and traveled to international cities like Bangkok, Dubai, Boston, LA, NYC, San Francisco, Paris, Tokyo, and Seoul, I’ve seen the potential markets worldwide and how much people in different countries care about beauty," Roongpiti says.
"To fully enhance the skin, offering products that address skin concerns from all angles is necessary. STARLA is committed to bringing cutting-edge skincare technology and other exciting innovations to cater to your skin health and empower your self-confidence," she adds.
As far as advice for fellow and future beauty entrepreneurs, STARLA's founder says the following:
Know the problem you’re trying to solve. Have courage, focus, and take action. Surround yourself with entrepreneurial people who are better and smarter than you and who genuinely want to help you succeed. The people you surround yourself with are crucial. Seek feedback, learn from mistakes quickly, be resilient, trust your instincts, and keep expanding your capabilities until you succeed.
Roongpiti closes with:
"I represent those who aspire to be founders or leaders, and I’m here to showcase that they can achieve their goals too. Just start with a purpose. There will be people who support you when they see your great intentions for the world."
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