We recently had the chance to connect with Barb Diamond and have shared our conversation below.
Barb, it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
My workdays typically begin with my pets. Our dog and cats wake us up in the morning for breakfast. They all get breakfast, and then it’s time for our coffee. My husband and I have coffee together in the mornings while we go over our plans for the day and watch a little TV. Then, I make my morning protein shake and start my day.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m a cosmetic chemist and the owner of Allotrope Wellness, a plant-based soap and skincare company. Our products are made in small batches using gentle, effective ingredients that respect both your skin and the planet.
At the heart of Allotrope Wellness is a belief that skincare should be honest, accessible, and thoughtfully crafted. Our products are free from synthetic fragrances, artificial colorants, parabens, phthalates, and petrochemical derivatives. Each item is designed to be gentle and effective, using carefully selected botanical ingredients that support the skin’s natural function.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
When I was a child, I believed I had to have one dream or vision for myself. When I was in high school I believed I was going to be a fashion designer. I can sew and design small projects, but I keep that as a hobby. My professional dreams and goals have evolved over the years. When I decided to go back to school as an adult, my goal was to become a dietician. After realizing my passion for chemistry, that goal evolved into me becoming a chemist and then getting my master degree in cosmetic science.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
During my last semester of undergrad, I was injured in a serious car accident by someone who was on their phone and not paying attention. I had a concussion and neck injury. I was accepted into a PhD program for chemistry, but had to leave the program due to the effects of my injuries. At that time, I didn’t know what I was going to do and didn’t know if I’d ever recover or be myself again. I started Allotrope Wellness about a year later and enrolled in the cosmetic science program at the University of Cincinnati. Last year, I had neck surgery to alleviate the pain I was in and I also graduated with my master of science in cosmetic science. It’s been a long road since the accident, but my brand has been my passion throughout the journey.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
Education. I teach chemistry part-time and believe everyone should have at least a basic understanding of science and chemistry.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
I believe I’m doing what I was born to do, but I don’t think I’ve done everything that encompasses. I’m on the right path, I just haven’t made it to all of the destinations.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.AllotropeWellness.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allotropewellness
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barbdiamond/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/allotropewellness
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@allotropewellness
