Local makes it big in beauty industry

Dermaplaning is the use of a micro, super sharp, sterilised blade to gently scrape away dead skin cells and along with that any tiny, white, fluffy hairs that sit on the surface of the skin.

This works as an instant exfoliation that leaves the skin looking smooth and fresh.

Ali, who is the daughter of well-known Yarrawonga couple Max and Christine Grinter, now lives in Melbourne and is the mother of one.

As a side hustle during Victoria’s year of lockdowns last year, whilst also home with a new baby, Ali had an idea to create an easier, focus her energies on her booming new business, leaving her full-time role after 21 years in the mortgage industry.

To market to a wide audience Ali dabbled in Instagram and Facebook advertising but took a punt on Tik Tok after a suggestion by a friend who saw the platform grow exponentially during Covid lockdowns.

“Social media is a great tool especially when it comes to marketing. I have used TikTok primarily to engage with clients and share my product. It has been a revenue raiser,” Ms Clarke said.

“Especially when people were spending their time at home during lockdowns and more time than ever was being spent on our phones I thought why not just try putting it out there as you can find everything on TikTok.

“In terms of business and how to market a product like this, I learnt everything from Youtube.

“We have now just realised two products recently which is very exciting and the brand is soon to be stocked in over 5000 stores.

“It is just crazy what a little idea during lockdown can turn into.”

Bondi Blades have now become one of Australia’s leading home dermaplaning kits and have gone from strength to strength, making over $1 million in 2021 and recently signing five large distributor deals which will see the brand stocked in over 500 retail stores nationwide.

This year has seen huge growth for the brand, and even bigger announcements are on the horizon.

“Our derma razors are made from highquality Japanese stainless steel face razors for women and men,” Ms Clarke said. “Our products are biodegradable and sustainable. Good for your skin - good for the environment.

“It was out of control before Christmas, the stock was just flying out the door which is obviously great to see.

“People love the product as it saves time and money, and it was something fun to do in covid.

Ali Clarke (nee Grinter) is climbing the corporate ladder after creating and retailing Bondi Blades, a home dermaplaning kit which helps save money on beauty treatments.

“We have some really big announcements still to come and are wanting to build the brand globally.

“We can’t believe how quickly we’ve grown in such a short space of time.

“Seeing our blades stocked nationally is a dream come true for me, a real pinch yourself moment.”

Bondi Blades is now stocked at Blooms, Chempro, Pharmacy 4 Less, Health Save Pharmacies and Pharmacy choice nationwide.

From growing up in Yarrawonga and attending both local schools before also working in Cobram as a CBA Bank Manager, Ali is excited to see her product being stocked in her hometown.

“I went to both the Red School (the old Yarrawonga College P-12 campus) as well as the college. I don’t get to come back as much as I would like to but there is nothing better than being home in Yarrawonga,” Ali said.

“Blooms Chemist in Yarrawonga stock the Bondi Blades which is surreal for me especially as the chemist was my first ever job.

“It will be amazing when I finally do get to come home, to see it stocked in some of our local stores. “That is definitely a proud moment.”