Skincare with a Soul: How Pili Ani’s Founders Built a Brand with Heart and Heritage
When Rosalina Tan and her daughter Mary Jane Tan-Ong founded Pili Ani, they didn’t just want to make skincare products—they wanted to create something that truly mattered. For them, it wasn’t just about beauty; it was about supporting their community, caring for the environment, and sharing a piece of Filipino culture with the world. Today, Pili Ani is a brand that combines effective skincare with a commitment to social and environmental responsibility, all while celebrating the natural wonders of the Philippines.
Building a Brand that Supports Communities
Pili Ani’s journey began with Rosalina’s deep connection to organic farming and sustainable practices in the Philippines. She recognized that the Pili tree, a local treasure of the Bicol region, had untapped potential—not just for its unique oils, but for what it could do for the local farmers who tended to these trees. Rosalina and Mary Jane set out to build a company that would provide fair wages and create economic opportunities for farmers while highlighting the amazing benefits of Pili Oil and Elemi Oil in the global beauty industry.
Instead of relying on large-scale, impersonal production, Pili Ani works directly with local farmers, training them in sustainable harvesting techniques and ensuring that they earn fair wages for their work. This partnership goes beyond just making skincare—it’s about making a difference in the lives of people who have traditionally been overlooked by big industry players.
Sustainability in Action: Reforesting the Pili Tree Forests
One of the ways Pili Ani is making an impact is through its reforestation efforts in the Bicol region. The Pili tree is not only the source of Pili Oil and Elemi Oil but also plays a critical role in maintaining the region’s ecosystem. Pili Ani is committed to ensuring that these trees thrive for generations to come. That’s why they’re actively involved in replanting Pili trees, contributing to the long-term health of the Pili forests and supporting the environment.
What sets Pili Ani apart is that they don’t just harvest the oils from these trees—they invest in the future of the land that sustains them. Through ethical sourcing practices, they ensure that the Elemi sap, used for Elemi Oil, is harvested in a way that allows the tree to continue growing. This means tapping the trees only every few years, letting them recover between harvests. It’s a slower process, but one that ensures sustainability and long-term growth for the forest.
The Magic of Pili and Elemi Oils
At the heart of Pili Ani’s skincare line are two incredible ingredients: Pili Oil and Elemi Oil, both sourced directly from the Pili tree. These oils are rich in natural nutrients that nourish and protect the skin.
Pili Oil, extracted from the pulp of the Pili fruit, is packed with essential fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins A and E. It’s a natural powerhouse for hydration and skin protection, locking in moisture while defending against environmental damage. The oil has been used for generations in the Philippines to soothe and heal the skin, and today it’s a key ingredient in Pili Ani’s Self-Care Night Recovery Oil, helping restore and rejuvenate the skin overnight.
Meanwhile, Elemi Oil comes from the sap of the Pili tree and is known for its youth-boosting and firming properties. It helps smooth fine lines and improves skin elasticity, making it a go-to for those seeking to brighten and firm their complexion. Pili Ani’s Ageless Concentrate blends Elemi Oil with Pili Oil to deliver a lightweight, nourishing formula that works wonders as both a daily moisturizer and a primer.
Skincare that Gives Back
Pili Ani’s products aren’t just about giving your skin a glow—they’re about giving back. Every time you use one of their oils, you’re supporting local Filipino farmers and helping to sustain the Pili forests. This isn’t just about ethical production; it’s about creating a ripple effect of positive change for the people and places that make these products possible.
What’s more, Pili Ani is proudly a women-owned brand that values inclusivity and authenticity. By using native Filipino ingredients and working closely with local communities, they’ve created a business that reflects the heart of the Philippines while delivering effective skincare to a global audience.
Looking Ahead: Growing with Purpose
As Pili Ani continues to grow, their mission remains clear: to build a brand that makes a positive impact on the world, rooted in Filipino heritage, environmental care, and community empowerment. Through reforestation, sustainable farming, and creating opportunities for local farmers, Pili Ani is shaping a future where skincare doesn’t just benefit your skin—it benefits the world around you.
The next time you’re looking for products that not only transform your skin but also make a difference, consider Pili Ani. With every drop of their oils, you’re supporting a brand that cares—about you, about their community, and about the planet.