Stretch marks are common to many people’s (especially women’s) skin, yet they often lead to feelings of insecurity due to societal beauty standards. For Portia Mngomezulu, her experience with stretch marks was the driving force behind creating a skincare brand that empowers women to embrace their authentic beauty.
In 2010, Mngomezulu noticed stretch marks on her skin after having a baby. Unsure of addressing them, her late mother-in-law introduced her to marula oil. Marula oil sparked her curiosity with its renowned skin-healing properties. After seeing remarkable results, Mngomezulu decided to share her discovery.
By 2011, she began making skincare products in her kitchen with marula oil as the key ingredient. What started as a small, personal venture quickly blossomed into Portia M Skin Solutions, which now offers over 40 products and is available in more than 2,000 stores across South Africa and internationally.
The brand’s success lies in offering simple, nature-based skincare solutions, with marula oil at the core. Marula oil addresses common skin concerns such as uneven skin tone, acne, and stretch marks, and it is recognised for its hydrating and anti-ageing properties. Through its focus on natural ingredients, the brand empowers women to embrace their unique beauty and feel confident in their skin.
Portia M Skin Solutions is more than just a skincare brand—it fosters a sense of community and connection with its customers. Their testimonials highlight the brand’s impact not only on skincare but also on self-esteem.
“I’ve always wanted my stretch marks and the two caesarean scars from having kids to fade. My goal was to have even, smooth skin, and I achieved that by using @portiam_skin’ Marula Skin Oil,” says a customer, @tenielgilbert.
As the business grew, Portia Mngomezulu expanded her offerings to include a haircare line in response to customer demand. The founder designed The Marula Oil Hair Care Collection specifically for afro-textured and chemically treated hair. This range comprises hydrating butter and anti-frizz mousse products crafted to nourish and hydrate hair. A partnership with Clicks Stores helped broaden access to these products, strengthening Portia M Skin Solutions’ position in the African beauty market.
Mngomezulu’s accolades, including the Beauty Game Changer award at the Glamour Women of the Year Awards, reflect her brand’s broader cultural and economic impact. Her work is part of a growing African movement that challenges narrow beauty standards and celebrates natural skin tones and textured hair.
Portia M Skin Solutions stands out due to the bond it has cultivated with its customers. Women across Africa openly share their stories, building a network of support that has driven the brand’s growth. This grassroots advocacy has played a crucial role in its success, with word of mouth helping to expand its reach.
As Portia M Skin Solutions continues to thrive, Portia Mngomezulu remains dedicated to meeting the evolving needs of her customers. She focuses on helping women take pride in their beauty, embrace their uniqueness, and feel empowered in their skin. This commitment enhances women’s beauty and contributes to women’s economic empowerment across Africa.
