Today, I have the pleasure of introducing a woman whose passion for skincare aligns beautifully with my own—Katerina Larden, the founder and CEO of Hey Honey.
This beauty brand has captured my heart, and I’m thrilled to share our conversation about her journey and the incredible products she’s created.
From the outset, I expressed my love for Hey Honey’s products, particularly the CC Cream and the Look Into My Eyes Retinol and Propolis Eye Mask.
“I swear that the eye mask, apart from the fact that it works and hydrates, I love the consistency and that it’s 30 ml instead of the usual 15,” I shared.
The birth of Hey Honey
Katerina launched Hey Honey out of a personal need for effective, time-saving skincare.
Before founding the brand, she and her husband ran a successful digital advertising agency.
Despite her busy schedule, she realized she wasn’t taking care of her skin.
The untouched bottles of skincare products in her possession prompted her to create a brand catering to people like her—busy individuals who want fast-acting, high-performing products.
“I started counting all these bottles of untouched products I had and thought, why am I not using them? It’s not like I don’t need them,” Katerina explained.
Why honey and bee propolis?
Honey and bee propolis became the cornerstone ingredients of Hey Honey. Katerina emphasized their longstanding history in skincare, dating back over 5,000 years.
“Honey is known to be used in skincare for over 5,000 documented years. It’s not new to anyone. Most people know that honey is good for you, but not a lot of people know why,” Katerina explained.
“Honey is more of your moisturizer, antibacterial with great properties, while propolis is often referred to as nature’s antibiotic.”
Effective skincare for busy lives
Hey Honey’s products are designed for busy people who don’t have hours to spend on their skincare routine.
Katerina highlighted the importance of creating versatile products that adapt to various skin needs.
“I didn’t want to use 15 products at once because I didn’t have time,” she shared. “I wanted something that’s going to be just as fast and as performing as I am. That’s how Hey Honey was born.”
Local involvement and giving back
Katerina’s commitment to her community extends beyond her business. She supports local organizations like Second Heart Homes, which provides housing and services for homeless women.
Her experiences with these women, who frequently expressed gratitude despite their hardships, deeply impacted her perspective on giving back.
“Sitting with these women, I’ve heard the term ‘I’m so lucky’ so many times. It puts things in perspective because they have been through so much, yet they still express gratitude,” Katerina reflected.
Challenges and triumphs
Throughout our conversation, Katerina shared insights into her entrepreneurial journey. Despite the challenges of running a business, she finds motivation in overcoming obstacles and receiving positive feedback from customers.
“People tell me, ‘I have rosacea and your product is the only thing that made me feel confident about my skin again.’ That’s my payoff,” Katerina said.
Katerina’s top picks from Hey Honey
Katerina recommended three must-try products from Hey Honey:
- CC Cream: With SPF 46, this self-adjusting cream provides natural coverage and skincare benefits. “It is made for a group that is a little bit older than in their early 20s, so it stays on, you don’t have to reapply it,” she noted.
- Good Morning Serum: A multi-purpose product that serves as a moisturizer and makeup primer. “It is my morning go-to. It gives you this canvas-ready skin,” Katerina explained.
- Walk the Walk Propolis Foot Cream: Perfect for maintaining soft, healthy feet, especially in Florida’s climate. “This has over 50 different herbs and is just so good, especially here in Florida where we’re walking around in flip-flops most of the day.”
She also mentioned the 911 Pro Gel, a versatile product for treating burns, bug bites, and other skin irritations. “It is literally for everything,” Katerina said. “Bug bites, too much sun, burns—it’s my Windex.” (referencing the film My Big Fat Greek Wedding)
The power of self-care
Our discussion also touched on the importance of self-care. Katerina and I both agreed that skincare can lift one’s spirits and boost confidence. “Skincare makes you feel better,” she said. “I get emails and reviews from people saying how our products have changed their lives. That keeps me going.”
I shared how my self-care routine, especially during difficult times, has been a source of comfort and strength. “Every night before I start putting on all my creams, I have this sense of magic and possibility that something beautiful is just about to happen,” I said.
Katerina Larden’s journey with Hey Honey is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. Her commitment to creating effective skincare products and giving back to the community is truly inspiring.
You can find Hey Honey’s products on their website, Amazon, QVC, HSN, Ulta, and Macy’s.
Thank you, Katerina, for sharing your story and for the wonderful products that make self-care a delightful experience.
This post may contain affiliate links.
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