The pandemic forced this Irish cosmetics business to pivot and now it’s produced 2.5m hand sanitisers

Many of us had to pivot when the global Covid-19 pandemic struck. But one Cork cosmetics company has managed to set up an entire new stream of revenue, which is also helping local businesses and aiding the healthcare of the nation. 

For over 30 years, Cosmetic Creations has been manufacturing and distributing skincare and fake tan for the Irish market.

At the start of 2020, when lockdown hit, Cosmetic Creations launched Airmedica, a personal protective brand that not only answered a nation’s prayers, but added a new revenue stream to the Cosmetic Creations business.

In March, Airmedica began manufacturing 80,000 units of hand sanitiser per week. Just three months later, it has produced 2.5 million hand sanitisers, with 350,000 units being produced a week as well as two new products added to the range.

With its competitive retail prices, Airmedica’s new products are ideal for those customers that it previously provided with skincare and fake tan.

Airmedica’s three-step hand shield process of hand wash, sanitiser and hand cream are all available now. Photo: Airmedica

The new Cleanse hand wash contains natural ingredients of centella, which is said to be beneficial for increasing elasticity, reducing inflammation and strengthening the skin’s natural defences. It also contains Fucus vesiculosus, a type of seaweed which is a natural humectant, hydrating the skin by drawing in moisture from the environment. It is competitively priced at just €3.50 for 250mls.

The new Protect hand cream is infused with avocado oil, mandarin oil and lavender oil. It contains aloe vera for its anti-inflammatory qualities, alleviating dryness and encouraging the rejuvenation of the skin and mandarin oil to inspire a rise in energy, melt away daily stresses, and increase wellbeing. This costs €5.99 for 75mls.

Airmedica has already seen an uptake in its hand products among healthcare workers after it launched its hand sanitiser in March. The company says it is 99.999% effective at killing bacteria and costs just €5.50 for 250mls.

Breffney O’Dowling-Keane, market development manager, says, “We are so proud that our hand sanitiser was used by frontline workers throughout the pandemic. We are now expanding the range, so that people can protect their hands and their health while supporting Irish.

Team Airmedica delivering the newly launched Airmedica products to lucky businesses in Cork and Mayo. Photo: Supplied

“We strive to be even more Irish and we are continuously searching for further ingredients sourced in Ireland.

“With more and more products entering the market, consumers need to be sure what they are buying is effective. All Airmedica products contain the highest quality of ingredients and meet Irish and European quality standards.”

Since launching, Airmedica has donated over 10,000 units of hand sanitiser to local hospices, hospitals and charities, including Marymount Hospice, Crumlin Children’s Hospital, Mayo Roscommon Hospice and Cork Penny Dinners.

We don’t know about you, but the sanitation station at the hair salon just got a whole lot more comfortable for us.

To purchase Airmedica’s three-step hand shield process, visit Airmedica.ie.

Main photo: Cosmetic Creations market development manager Breffney O’Dowling-Keane, photo supplied