Entrepreneur to Watch: Lydia Taylor of Riversol Skin Care

This is our final “Entrepreneur to Watch” column here on VancouverMom.ca. From now on, we’ll be profiling entrepreneurs and sharing business tips on our sister site, Entrepreneur Mom Now. So head on over and visit for all the inspiration you need as a mom and an entrepreneur.

Lydia Taylor is the CEO of Riversol Skin Care Inc., and a busy working mom to two young children. When she’s not taking them swimming, to the park or to Granville Island, she works with dermatologist Dr. Jason Rivers to help people suffering from Rosacea. Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that affects millions worldwide. She wants to help find a cure. As if that weren’t enough she speaks Spanish and Mandarin, and also volunteers once a month at Beauty Night – an award winning, volunteer-run charity that helps women and youth living in poverty through makeovers and wellness development.

What is your role in the company?

President and CEO.

When did you start working with the company?

I started writing Riversol’s first business plan April 1, 2010. I joined the company full time on June 26, 2010.

What were you doing before you started working with Riversol?

Corporate development and operations for a cancer diagnostics company.

What inspired you to start working with the company?

My dad is the entrepreneur behind Granville Island Brewery. I always wanted to follow in his footsteps. Then when I discovered Riversol had effectively helped my Rosacea I was compelled to lead the company to help others with this painful, embarrassing condition.

What is your company all about?

Healing and caring for people with Rosacea. We want to get the message out there that you are not alone.

What’s your vision for your company?

To be able to help people worldwide with this condition.

What excites you about what you’re doing?

It’s working. We have already changed lives. Not just by improving their skin, but by helping people live unmasked, drug-free and with confidence.

What are some early examples of success?

We’ve received incredible success stories from customers. We’re building positive relationships with customers who are experiencing such good service that they still recommend Riversol to friends even if we weren’t able to help them. We have a number of ‘superfans’ as well – some even volunteer to work for us.

Are there any charities or organizations you’re involved in?

I’m involved in Beauty Night. This is an incredible organization that gives dignity and positive human interaction to underprivileged women who have been marginalized by society. Without basic human dignity and self-esteem it is impossible to get sober or get a job. I am so passionate about this organization that I would like to partner Riversol with Beauty Night so that more women in more cities can be reached and helped in any way possible.

What’s next for you?

These are exciting times for Riversol. Not only are we expanding across Canada in the fall, but we are also working towards a complete re-brand including new packing. This is something our customers have been patiently waiting for and we think they will be pleased. With Beauty Night, we will be helping to expand their operations and hope to launch a Toronto program before the end of the year. And at home, we are getting ready for grade one and preschool this year. After bike camps this summer, we might even be able to start biking as a family for school drop-offs this year. I can always hope!