You know that moment when life forces you to slow down, and suddenly, everything changes? That’s pretty much how Matte Equation came to be. It wasn’t a grand business plan or some perfect vision from the start. It was born from my own search for balance in life, something I know so many of us are chasing. Except, this experience was a rude awakening. 

Let me back up a bit. Like most people, I was living that busy life, running from one thing to the next, trying to keep up with everything. I was constantly looking for ways to get ahead, feel better, look better and meet this invisible standard of a “perfect” life. But it wasn’t working. At some point, I realized I wasn’t just tired. I was completely out of touch with how I felt. Like absolutely lost

Then came the turning point: mud masks. I know, it doesn’t sound revolutionary, but stick with me. It was what most would call an average Friday night, except I made a conscious effort to do all the things that make self-care actually meaningful. So, I put on a mud mask. The act of applying a mud mask forced me to stop, literally. I had to take my glasses off, let the mask harden and just sit there—with myself, with my thoughts and with nowhere to rush off to. It was like hitting pause on my life for a few minutes, and in that stillness, something clicked. Self-care didn’t have to be this complicated, rigid, multi-step routine. No, really. We see so many multi-step routines out there. Self-care was something I could customize to fit my life, my mood and my needs.

That’s when I started thinking beyond just looking good. I realized our bodies carry us through so many versions of ourselves—through the chaos, the highs, the lows—and they deserve more than just a “quick fix” to look good. They deserve time, care and attention, but in a way that works for us, not against us. 

This is what set the foundation for Matte Equation. I never started this journey with the intent to chase trends or trying to fit into someone else's skincare routine. I had this deep burning desire to create a space that empowers people to take care of themselves, on their own terms. Skincare should feel good—it should be fun, thoughtful and yours

Remember that. 

As I spent many nights trying to curate this brand, I just really wanted to create a brand that reflects this lifestyle. We’re not here to make wild promises or throw around skincare buzzwords. This is why I describe us as a lifestyle-driven skincare brand. Because Matte Equation is a lifestyle. It's a way to slow down, be intentional and embrace whatever phase of life you’re in. The products we offer are a tool for that journey, helping you feel good from the inside out.

So, here I am, literally four years later, building this brand that I hope resonates with everyone who’s ever felt the pressure to look good, but really just wanted to feel good. For me, this is my safe space, a creative expression, a way to share what I've learned, and hopefully inspire others to find their balance. But it's also a space where I want to invite people from all walks of life who share the same vision as I do to give us a glimpse into their own tips and tricks. Well, because sharing is caring. 

I have to confess—I'm on my own journey to health and well-being, just like you. Starting a brand like this doesn’t mean I have it all figured out. I want everyone to know that it’s completely okay to be on your own path to self-care, just like I am. I love that I get to search for the same things alongside you. It means there's so much more to discover in this crazy, yet fun, life.

This brings me to say: thank you for being here, for trusting the process, and for letting Matte Equation be part of your journey. I hope you find what brings your soul peace, fuels your body, and fills your heart to live a life that’s truly full. But in the meantime, here’s to slowing down, feeling good and embracing your own unique equation for self-care.

Matt

Matthew D. Celestial