BRAND

Ooka is a natural self-care brand that harmonizes Eastern wellness traditions with modern artistry and philosophy. Inspired by the rich herbal heritage of East Asia, we craft products that embrace simplicity, purity, and time-honored wisdom. Featuring the finest botanical ingredients sourced from Asia, Ooka revitalizes your skin, delivering a luxurious and transformative self-care experience.

Handcrafted in small batches, Ooka bridges the gap between ancient wellness rituals and modern lifestyles, offering a sustainable and holistic approach to skincare. We believe skincare is more than just a routine—it is a mindful ritual that nurtures the connection between people and nature.

Ooka’s formulations embody this ethos, meticulously crafted to bring the essence of East Asian herbal wisdom into the modern world. From botanical bath soaks and artisanal soaps to aromatic candles, each product is designed to restore balance, create moments of tranquility, and reconnect you with the rhythms of nature.

FOUNDING STORY

The story of Ooka is rooted in a lifelong curiosity about the power of nature in skincare.

Growing up in Qichun, Hubei Province, I was surrounded by the legacy of Li Shizhen, the Ming Dynasty scholar behind Bencao Gangmu (Compendium of Materia Medica). Watching my elders embrace traditional remedies—brewing red dates and goji tea for vitality, washing their faces with rice water, or soothing insect bites with mint leaves—I developed a deep respect for the wisdom of Eastern self-care rituals.

Later, I moved to the United States for college, where I realized that many in the West were eager to explore Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and holistic skincare, but lacked access to products that were both authentic and modern. This inspired me to bring the timeless wisdom of Eastern botanical traditions to a global audience—thus, Ooka was born.

My co-founder, drawing from Taiwan’s rich heritage of minimalist, sustainable skincare, brought in insights on simplicity and efficacy. Together, we envisioned a brand that blends the potent power of Eastern herbs with modern skincare needs—making nature-driven self-care effortless, effective, and accessible.

OUR PHILOSOPHY

At the core of Ooka lies a simple yet profound belief — that the most effective self-care comes from nature, through the harmonious interaction between the earth and its people. The name Ooka derives from the Japanese word for "small hill" (oka), symbolizing our roots in the natural landscapes where grains, herbs, and tea are cultivated. The 'O' reflects not only unity and wholeness but also our connection to the world. Our mission is to source pure ingredients from these 'small hills,' refine them through artisanal craftsmanship, and return the benefits to people and the planet.

Our philosophy draws heavily from the Eastern concept of tian di ren he (天地人和) — harmony between heaven, earth, and humanity. This principle shapes our product development, emphasizing:

  • All-Natural Ingredients – Free from synthetic chemicals, we use botanicals and grains sourced across Asia for nourishing, authentic skincare.
  • Handcrafted in the USA – Each product is made in small batches, ensuring quality, potency, and the preservation of traditional techniques.
  • Sustainable and Cruelty-Free – Our products honor ethical sourcing, avoid animal testing, and prioritize eco-friendly practices.

Through this approach, Ooka not only embraces natural self-care but also contributes to environmental well-being, ensuring that our practices sustain the ecosystems from which we draw inspiration.

Our skincare philosophy extends beyond topical products. We believe that outer beauty reflects inner health. This belief drives us to explore the synergy between emotional balance, healthy routines, and the use of natural ingredients. By incorporating grains, tea, and herbs — ingredients valued for their beneficial properties — we craft products that care for the skin externally, promoting a sense of overall well-being.