Root Remedies Closes After 7 Years: Malaysia’s Clean Skincare Legacy

Root Remedies: Malaysia’s Beloved Clean Skincare Brand Says Goodbye

In September 2022, Root Remedies, one of Malaysia’s leading clean skincare brands, closed its doors after a transformative seven-year journey. Founded by Chiew Yee Sian in 2015, the brand amassed a loyal following with its commitment to vegan, cruelty-free, and sustainable beauty, leaving a significant legacy on the local industry. This article explores Root Remedies’ rise, the challenges that led to its closure, and its enduring impact on customers and the Malaysian startup community.

The Rise of Root Remedies

Root Remedies was established in 2015 by Sian, who was only 21 and pursuing fashion marketing in college at the time. Motivated by a personal journey into natural skincare, Sian envisioned a results-driven brand that would resonate with Malaysia’s diverse community. The brand quickly became known for:

• Clean formulations with minimal, locally sourced ingredients
• Vegan and cruelty-free certifications
• Strong environmental ethics and sustainable packaging
• Educational campaigns promoting transparency in beauty

By 2022, Root Remedies had achieved remarkable milestones:

• Over 30,000 followers on social media
• Features in top local publications
• Loyal customers sharing collections and testimonials

Brand Milestones and Recognition

Root Remedies’ influence went beyond product sales. In 2021, Sian and her partner, Leland Lo, were included in the Prestige Magazine Top 40 under 40, underscoring their contributions to Malaysia’s clean beauty movement. The brand often partnered with environmental initiatives and was a model for other startups seeking authenticity and transparency in their product propositions.

The Announcement: An End to an Era

On August 2, 2022, Root Remedies announced on Instagram their decision to close operations effective September 30, 2022. Sian’s heartfelt message resonated deeply with followers:

“With deepest sincerity and sorrow, I would like to announce that Root Remedies will officially close its doors…”

The announcement triggered an emotional response from the community, with likes, comments, and posts expressing gratitude for the brand’s role in their skincare routines. Customers posted photos of their Root Remedies collections, questioning what they’d do after their favorite products ran out.

Why Did Root Remedies Shut Down?

The closure was not simply due to dwindling sales or a lack of consumer interest. The core issues, as explained by Sian, involved:

• Burnout: The constant push to keep up with ever-evolving social media platforms, trends, and metrics led to mounting exhaustion.
• Disillusionment: The drive for profits, clicks, and views overshadowed the original mission, causing Sian to feel she “cannot give my best to Root Remedies anymore.”
• Economic Pressures: Like many startups, Root Remedies struggled with unforgiving economic conditions. Disruptions in the global supply chain made sourcing raw materials and packaging increasingly difficult and expensive.
• Shifting Priorities: After achieving her early goals, Sian found her outlook on life and business had shifted, opening her to new possibilities and reminding her that “it is okay to take a break, and not to forget about the important things in life.”

Key Challenges Faced by Malaysian Startups in 2022

Root Remedies’ closure is part of a wider wave of shutdowns among Malaysian startups in 2022, including well-loved brands like Jujumello (lingerie), FashionValet (ecommerce), and Kaodim (home services). Shared challenges included:

• Rapidly rising costs for goods and ingredients
• Global supply chain disruptions impacting local business
• The relentless pace of digitalization and social media marketing
• Burnout among founders and teams

Root Remedies and the Clean Beauty Movement

Root Remedies played a pioneering role in defining clean beauty standards in Malaysia. Their formulas often featured locally relevant botanicals and avoided harsh chemicals, gaining trust among health-conscious consumers.

A Community’s Reaction: Farewell and Gratitude

The Root Remedies community responded to the closure with overwhelming support. Customers, influencers, and fellow entrepreneurs offered kind words, shared testimonials, and filled their carts during the brand’s “goodbye sale,” which offered up to 80% discounts both online and in-store.

As Sian and Leland prepared to leave the market, the community’s messages left the founders open to future possibilities. In fact, they shared in October that the “supportive messages” received made them consider a possible relaunch, though for now, they are focused on taking a well-deserved break.

Lessons Learned from the Shutdown

• Balance and Wellbeing Matter: Entrepreneurial burnout is real. Taking breaks and reevaluating priorities are important for sustaining innovation and happiness.
• Authentic Customer Connection: Brands like Root Remedies thrive on genuine relationships with their audience, emphasizing transparency and listening.
• Economic Adaptability: Navigating volatile supply chains and rising costs remain key challenges for small and medium businesses.

Final Sale: Going Out on a High Note

Root Remedies’ farewell sale saw products being snatched up by loyal followers, hoping to stock up before their favorites disappeared for good. Instagram stories from both the brand and customers showed packed shopping carts, a testament to its enduring impact.

This celebratory send-off allowed the brand to “close the chapter on a high note,” turning a difficult decision into a communal experience marked by gratitude and positivity.

Comparison: Malaysian Startups That Bid Farewell in 2022

Impact & Legacy: What Root Remedies Leaves Behind

Although Root Remedies ceased operations, its legacy endures through:

• Empowering other local brands to pursue clean beauty standards
• Raising awareness about founder wellbeing and mental health in entrepreneurship
• Encouraging consumers to seek out ethical, sustainable options

Sian’s journey continues to inspire Malaysia’s startup ecosystem. The effective communication during the closure, combined with acknowledgment of personal and industry-wide challenges, set a new benchmark for transparency in business.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What made Root Remedies different from other Malaysian skincare brands?

A: Root Remedies stood out for its commitment to clean, vegan, and cruelty-free products, sustainable packaging, and deep customer engagement.

Q: Why did Root Remedies shut down in 2022?

A: The main reasons cited were founder burnout from relentless social media and marketing pressures, challenging economic conditions, and the desire to prioritize personal wellbeing.

Q: Is there a chance Root Remedies will come back?

A: As of October 2022, the founders remain open to relaunching in the future, depending on their journey and the right circumstances.

Q: What should customers do if they want similar products?

A: Customers are advised to seek other local clean beauty brands that emphasize vegan, cruelty-free, and transparent formulations.

Q: How has Root Remedies impacted Malaysian clean beauty?

A: Root Remedies inspired other brands to prioritize ethical and transparent practices, championing a “results-oriented” and environmentally conscious approach.

Looking Forward: Lessons for Entrepreneurs

• Prioritize founder and team wellbeing to avoid burnout and maintain passion.
• Build authentic relationships with customers for lasting impact.
• Adapt to changing economic and technological landscapes to ensure business resilience.
• Recognize when it’s time to take a break and reevaluate goals, as Sian did.
• Celebrate your milestones and impact, even in the face of difficult decisions.

Root Remedies’ journey exemplifies the challenges and rewards of building a mission-driven brand in Malaysia’s fast-changing market. While “all good things must come to an end,” the founder’s story and the brand’s legacy remain a powerful influence on the country’s clean beauty landscape and entrepreneurial community.