From Project Manager To Skincare Innovator: A Q&A With Mimar Founder Mona Ebrahimi (Win!)

Mimar is making waves in the Canadian skincare scene with its latest launch, the Ultra Vit C Concentrate—a powerhouse serum packed with 15% premium, 100% natural vitamin C. But behind this game-changing formula is an equally inspiring story.

Founder Mona Ebrahimi left behind a corporate career to follow her passion for skincare, becoming a certified formulator while on maternity leave and launching Mimar as a fully bootstrapped brand. In this Q&A, Mona shares her journey, the science behind Ultra Vit C, and what it takes to turn a vision into a thriving beauty business. —Noa Nichol

Can you tell us about your journey from corporate project manager to founder of Mimar? What inspired you to make the leap into skincare?

During my maternity leave from a tech project management role, I felt the need for a creative outlet beyond motherhood. Struggling with sensitive skin led me to explore natural skincare. Inspired by my grandmother (who used to make her own products), I started formulating to address my skin concerns and saw amazing results, which eventually evolved into Mimar.

How did becoming a mother influence your decision to start Mimar, and how do you balance running a business with parenting?

Becoming a mother was really what influenced my decision to start Mimar. I initially created a batch of face oil to use myself but decided to sell some during the holidays. What began with a simple label and logo quickly grew into a natural, biotech luxury skincare brand. 

Balancing motherhood and running a business isn’t about perfect harmony—it’s about prioritizing. As a full-time mom and business owner, every day looks different. I work while my daughter naps, plays nearby, or sleeps at night. I have been hunched over my laptop breastfeeding, have brought my kids to retailer meetings, and often join calls with a napping baby in my arms. Some days, business has to pause, but being a present mother always comes first. I am building Mimar alongside my motherhood journey, finding ways to grow without compromising what matters most.

What makes the Ultra Vit C Concentrate stand out in the crowded vitamin C skincare market?

Our Ultra Vit C Concentrate features 15% THA (Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate), a stable, clinically proven Vitamin C that reduces hyperpigmentation, boosts collagen, and protects against free radicals. It is paired with Amazonian oils rich in essential fatty acids and antioxidants to enhance nourishment. What sets it apart even further is its accessible price point—while only a handful of brands across North America offer such a premium dosage of this Vitamin C active, we’ve made it our mission to deliver luxury skincare that delivers results without compromise.

Mimar emphasizes blending natural ingredients with biotechnology. How does this philosophy shape your products?

Mimar combines unique botanicals with cutting-edge science to create high-performance skincare. For example, our Vitamin C is a stable, non-irritating form suitable for sensitive skin, and our red algae-derived hydrating active deeply hydrates and revives dull skin. Every ingredient is chosen with purpose, blending nature’s best with scientific advancements to deliver transformative results.

Sustainability and ethical practices are core to Mimar’s values. How does the brand prioritize these principles?

Ethics guide every decision at Mimar, from using ECOCERT and COSMOS-approved ingredients to choosing sustainable biophotonic glass packaging. We also price our products accessibly, challenging the notion that luxury must be expensive. Every choice reflects our commitment to quality, sustainability, and making high-performance skincare more inclusive.

The skincare market often associates luxury with high prices. How does Mimar challenge that perception?

At Mimar, luxury means quality, not a hefty price tag. Many brands rely on high margins, but we prioritize accessibility without compromising on performance. Skincare is a daily essential, and we believe everyone deserves effective, premium products without breaking the bank.

As a certified formulator, what challenges did you face in creating Mimar’s product lineup, and how did you overcome them?

The biggest challenge was juggling multiple roles—I was the founder, formulator, and a full-time mom. I developed and manufactured each product myself, which took longer but ensured quality. Letting go of comparisons and focusing on my unique journey helped me stay aligned with my priorities and build Mimar thoughtfully.

The Ultra Vit C Concentrate targets hyperpigmentation and wrinkles. What results can users expect?

Users can expect brighter, more even-toned skin within 4–8 weeks. The 15% THA boosts collagen production, reduces fine lines and wrinkles, and protects against UV and blue light damage, leaving skin radiant and youthful.

What advice do you have for aspiring entrepreneurs, especially women entering the beauty industry?

Understand your niche and offer something unique in this competitive market. Most importantly, just start. Perfection isn’t necessary—progress is what matters. Each step will teach you and bring you closer to your goals.

Looking ahead, what’s next for Mimar?

We’re testing two exciting products, one launching later this year. It’s a clinically proven, natural take on a sought-after anti-aging ingredient, aligning with Mimar’s mission to blend science-backed results with nature. Stay tuned—we can’t wait to share more!

Win! A $367 Mimar Ultimate Skincare Bundle!

One lucky Canadian winner will receive a $367 Mimar Ultimate Skincare Bundle! To enter, head over to Instagram, follow @mimarskin and @vitadailymedia and make sure to fulfil all the entry rules in the caption of the corresponding contest post. Contest opens February 17, 2025 and closes February 24, 2025. Complete contest rules and regulations here. Please note: if you are the winner, you will receive a DM (direct message) in Instagram directly from @vitadailymedia. Please be wary of fake accounts, which often use similar handles with an extra or missing letter, number or symbol. We will never ask for a payment or for your credit card number, and we will never ask you to click through a link. If you are unsure whether you have been contacted, via Instagram, by us or a fake account, email us before responding.