Carol and Michael Ong’s start up business originated out of necessity: they needed to relieve their son’s skin discomfort.

Their “joint venture” started in 2007, when Carol, an advertising executive from Bacolod, met Michael in Shanghai. “Doc Mike”, a Pasay City native, was a community and family doctor working in Shanghai’s leading hospitals.

They dated and got married in 2009. Three years later, they bore a son. The toddler developed skin eczema, prompting the couple to collaborate in finding relief.

Combining Carol’s propensity to concoct natural health remedies and Dr. Michael’s expertise in biochemistry, they came up with a soothing cream they dubbed “Bebebalm”.

Encouraged by its efficacy, she made extra samples to share with friends, who also gave positive feedback. This encouraged the Shanghai-based couple to produce more.

“This business is being built by friends and fans who continue to inspire us, from designing the packaging to opening ecommerce,” Carol intones.

A self-described “mompreneur”, Carol has since tapped chemists to ensure quality control as their home-based remedies expanded into a full-fledged business.

The success of their first product —the moisturizer ByeDry —has engendered a growing line of mostly China-manufactured products: the Bebebalm shampoo bar; the Bebebugs insect repellent, and the Bebesleep essential oil.

“Our products are meant for our loved ones’ needs,” Carol says.

Their latest product, the calming oil Bebebreathe, won gold as the best skincare product at the 2024 China-ASEAN Expo in Nanning City.

From seeking to alleviate their child’s discomfort and venturing into a start-up, Bebebalm’s Carol and Mike Ong #MadeItInChina

#PHLinChina #50thAnniversary