Our Process
From Source to Product
An intricate eco-friendly process rarely found in the skincare industry.
We diligently prepare each small batch by hand, taking 15-weeks from growing seedlings to creating each skincare product.
PHASE ONE (6 weeks)
Aquacultivation
Every Mwani Zanzibar product is made with pure natural seaweed that is grown from seedling, in tune with the moon and the tides of the Indian Ocean. It is harvested by hand, collected from small farms, in clear and unpolluted waters around the islands of the Zanzibar archipelago. Traditional ngalawa boats, which are powered by the wind, are used to collect select varieties of seaweed, harvesting only what is needed. Packed in seawater to preserve freshness within an hour, the harvest is brought back to the Mwani Zanzibar Center in Paje, to begin the drying process.
PHASE TWO (5 days)
Alchemy Performed
To formulate our proprietary MW Macroalgae Extract™, under controlled atmospheric conditions, a temperature and light sensitive 2-step process is taken to dry seaweed harvests to preserve bioactivity. Afterwards, we macerate the seaweed by hand at sub-zero temperatures, followed by 24 hours of agitation. The resulting solution is triple-filtered and evaporated— under increased surface area and a lower temperature—to preserve bioactivity and create a highly concentrated extract. Each 24-hour process produces 0.5g of highly potent MW Macroalgae Extract™.
Proprietary Formulations
Our scientifically formulated multi-seaweed tincture—MW Macroalgae Extract™—is the star ingredient in every Mwani Zanzibar product. Blended with a curation of nourishing, 100% natural, indigenous, and wild-grown African superfoods and unrefined oils, each formulation is sourced through our dedicated network of skilled harvesters, beekeepers, and wild foragers—individuals we train, support, and know by name.
PHASE THREE (1-90 days)
Handcrafted Batches
Our skincare collection is handcrafted in small batches at our Center’s production studio, using highly concentrated ingredients—free from solvents or fillers. Small-batch production ensures freshness and potency, preserving the integrity of active ingredients. We combine traditional techniques with modern precision to craft our creams, serums, and soap bars.
PHASE FOUR (1 day)
Packaged with Care
Mwani Zanzibar’s packaging is carefully designed to reduce weight, volume, and carbon footprint. Works of art themselves, our glass bottles that preserve our creams and serums are made from 100% post-consumer recycled waste—each unique and made by hand via our packaging partner. Our outer and fulfillment packaging is made from 80% post-consumer recycled as well. We assemble and package each product fresh at our Center’s production studio.