Name and Title:
Risa Barash, Co-Founder
Company:
Fairy Tales Hair Care
Contact info:
email: risa@fairytaleshaircare.com
How many years have you been in business?
18!
How did you get your start and what was your initial inspiration?
My husband Robert and I launched this business with Rosemary Repel® – the first line of natural hair care products proven to help prevent head lice using organic herbs of rosemary, tea tree, peppermint, lavender and geranium oils. Our family owns a children's salon on Long Island and while there one day, we overheard a conversation about a lice outbreak. We saw a need in the community and developed a natural solution that has helped tens of thousands of families live lice free! I immediately stopped my career as a standup comic and gained fame around NYC as the “lice lady.” 18 years later, Robert and I expanded our line and our family (Jack 15 and Ava 13) to include hair care that parents need not just want. Our Sun & Swim, Tangle Tamer and Curly lines are fabulous formulas created with good for you ingredients that serve a purpose - to make taking care of your child’s hair safe, easy and quick.
What do you feel differentiates you from others in your field?
We were the first line of professional hair care created for kids way back in 1999. Our products are asked for by name and that’s something that only time and a stellar reputation can accomplish. Our formulas are really amazing - we use ingredients such as quinoa, aloe, fruit extracts, rice proteins, organic herbs & oils and more!
What is your favorite part of your job?
I love everything about my job - even after 18 years! I especially love creating new formulas and launching new lines.
What is your favorite secret NYC spot?
I’m a Jersey mama now! We moved to Montclair, NJ a few years ago but I’m blessed to see the NYC skyline from our home - so my favorite spot is now my deck with a glass of Rose in hand. When I’m in the city, we love to visit Mom’s old haunts - Gotham Comedy and the Cellar. I always insist my kids have a falafel at Maumouns on West 3rd street. But my favorite secret place is the Strand bookstore. As a student at NYU, I spent hours there and I still love to visit and wander the aisles.
How do you benefit mamas?
That’s an easy one - I created Rosemary Repel lice prevention hair care!
What is the most memorable feedback a client has given you?
I love hearing how Rosemary Repel hair care gives parents peace of mind - as a parent any peace is good peace.
Pay it forward and name your top colleagues in the same field or related field:
Sally Hershberger - Hairstylist, salon owner and creator of 24K hair products
Jen Atkin - Hairstylist and Founder of Ouai
Jamie Kern - creator/founder of IT Cosmetics
Rachel Zoe and many, many more...
What is the best advice anyone has ever given you? Or what is your "mantra" / words to live by?
My Dad told me a long time ago to stay true to myself, my values, and my vision and stay focused.
As moms, the day can escape us, what is your best time-saving trick?
Blue Apron! My kids love to prep the meals and then when I get home we cook together.