But for Lim, it wasn’t a decision made on a whim: she only took the leap of faith when she was confident her finances were stable enough.
The now 51-year-old told FMT Lifestyle she had always been interested in health and beauty. But it wasn’t until during the pandemic that she enrolled in a professional aromatherapy diploma course, and realised she had discovered what she really wanted to do.
Having completed the one-year course, she is now certified as a clinical aromatherapist – someone who understands how to identify oils for, among other purposes, specific health issues.
She thus bade farewell to finance and started her business in 2022, calling it phytoE. The name, Lim explained, is derived from two terms: “phytology”, meaning the study of plants, and “essential oil”.
Lim hand-makes all her products using plant-based ingredients, most of which are imported from Europe. The majority of her goods, which include products for hair and skin, are chemical-free.
She even has a “sleep and relax” range – one of her top sellers – that consists of items such as pure essential oils, essential-oil roll-ons, and pillow mists.
“I’ve treated many people who couldn’t sleep, who have had very good results,” Lim explained. She added, however, that the use of essential oils and the like has to also be accompanied by good sleep habits, such as not looking at screens right before bedtime.
phytoE’s other bestsellers include the Bulgarian rose face oil, deep nourishing hand cream, and scalp-care leave-in treatment.
One of Lim’s key goals is to make self-care easy for busy women. For example, only one application of her face oil is enough to keep skin moisturised!
Lim acknowledged that being a new entrepreneur came with its share of challenges. For instance, she had to learn how to market her products over social media and, later, find ways to expand her customer base.
That is why she is thankful for Persatuan Pembangunan Artisans (PPA), an NGO that helps local artisans promote and market their products through its website, physical stores, and various pop-ups.
“They introduced me to the concept of selling through booths,” Lim said, adding that she also appreciates the support of PPA board member Jade Lee, who provides her with invaluable business advice.
All in all, Lim has no regrets having embarked on this sweet-smelling journey. “This is the second life cycle of my career. I am actually on my retirement plan, one that has no timeline.”
She hopes her story will show other women that it is possible to pursue a career change later in life. “Most people don’t dare take such a step because they don’t know what they can do. But you can find out, and you can learn.”
Purchase products from phytoE on Shopee and Lazada, and find out more about phytoE on Instagram.
Parents who wish to purchase products for children under age 12 are advised to send Lim an Instagram message for consultation.
Read more PPA stories and get to know its artisans here.