Natural Beauty

Never sell someone a product you wouldn’t use yourself. That might as well be the motto of Jamyla, right, and Pierre Bennu, left, who launched the Oyin Handmade product line in 2001. 

“I was the original consumer,” says Jamyla. “I wanted high quality all-natural products with an emphasis on moisture and gentleness. At the time, such things were difficult to find commercially, so I made my own.” 

Initially, they just shared the product with family and friends. “From there, it moved to fairs and shows, and the website launched in 2003,” says Pierre. Five years ago, the couple opened a store in Charles Village. 

Today, their products—which now include hair and body products for men, women, and babies—are carried in several Whole Foods Markets and Target locations across the country, and it just keeps growing. 

“Our consumers are people with all hair types and textures, who care about quality ingredients in their products and appreciate affordable luxury,” Jamyla says. 

So what’s the key to their product? Believe it or not, honey, the couple reports. 

“Oyin is actually the Yoruba word for honey,” Pierre says. “Honey is one of nature’s most versatile beauty ingredients,” Jamyla adds. “It’s useful for acne treatment. Honey maintains supple skin, soft lips, and hydrated hair.” 

But no, the Bennus do not suggest that you add their products to your tea.