We’re looking forward to introducing you to Mandi Tollefson. Check out our conversation below.
Mandi, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
The first 90 minutes of my day are absolutely crucial—they really set the tone for everything that follows. I’ve learned that when I start the day with intention, everything flows more smoothly. For me, that looks like getting outside early for some natural light, which helps regulate my energy and mood. I drink a full glass of water to rehydrate, grab a healthy snack to fuel up, and get my kids ready for school or whatever activities we have planned. Then I take a walk with our dog, which gives me a few moments of movement and mindfulness before the day gets busy. That combination of care for my body, my family, and our dog helps me step into the day feeling grounded, focused, and ready to go.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi! I’m Mandi Tollefson, the founder and formulator behind Tolly’s Treatments Mindful Beauty. I create small-batch, non-toxic skincare that’s rooted in intention, integrity, and the belief that beauty rituals should nourish both the skin and the spirit. I’m a Certified Organic Skincare Formulator and a longtime aromatherapy lover, and I started Tolly’s from the ground up while raising my two young boys.
What makes Tolly’s unique is the mindful approach behind every product—I formulate with clean, effective ingredients and a deep respect for the natural world. There’s a lot of noise in the beauty industry, but I try to keep things simple, sensory, and soulful. Right now, I’m working on expanding the Mindful Beauty line with new products and building more ways to connect with our community through stories, education, and wellness rituals that support real life.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
As a kid, I truly believed I had to be perfect to succeed—like if I colored outside the lines, my whole life would fall apart. I thought grown-ups had it all figured out, and one day I’d magically wake up knowing exactly what to do. Spoiler: that didn’t happen. Now I know that perfection is not only overrated, it’s completely imaginary. Real life is messy, unpredictable, and kind of hilarious. I’ve learned to embrace the chaos—whether that’s spilled snacks, skincare experiments gone sideways, or just forgetting why I walked into a room. Progress over perfection, always.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I’d tell her, ‘You don’t have to try so hard to be who you think everyone wants you to be. Who you are is already enough.’ I’d remind her that sensitivity is a strength, creativity is a gift, and it’s okay to take up space even if your voice shakes a little. The path might be twisty, but it’s yours—and it’s going to lead to something beautiful.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
One of the biggest lies the skincare industry tells is that healthy skin comes from constant product turnover and quick-fix solutions. We’re bombarded with trends, buzzwords, and 10-step routines that leave people feeling overwhelmed and confused. The truth is, more isn’t always better—especially when it comes to your skin barrier. There’s no miracle products.
Another major issue is greenwashing. Terms like ‘clean’ and ‘natural’ get thrown around without regulation, leading people to believe they’re making healthy choices when the ingredient lists tell a different story. At Tolly’s, I focus on transparency, simplicity, and formulating with purpose. I believe in empowering people to understand what they’re putting on their skin and why—because informed choices are beautiful ones.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What are you doing today that won’t pay off for 7–10 years?
I’m investing in building something meaningful, not just marketable. With Tolly’s, I’m focused on cultivating a brand rooted in trust, integrity, and genuine connection—not just fast growth or viral moments. That means making decisions that prioritize quality over quantity, sustainability over shortcuts, and people over profit.
I’m also raising two curious, kind-hearted boys while running a business, which means modeling mindfulness, resilience, and creativity in real life. That kind of intentional living—both at home and in my work—won’t show up on a spreadsheet tomorrow, but I believe it’s laying the foundation for something much deeper and more lasting in the years to come.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.tollystreatments.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tollystreatments
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tollystreatments
- Other: www.tiktok.com/@tollystreatments
www.pinterest.com/tollystreatments
