Meet Brent Thomas | Co-Founder and CEO

We had the good fortune of connecting with Brent Thomas and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Brent, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
As an organic chemist, I’ve seen firsthand the problems that happen when using synthetic materials. While one synthetic ingredient might solve one problem, they tend to create a whole new set of others in the process. I experienced this myself throughout my lifetime battling my own skin issues. I’d use products that claimed to help, but in reality, they just made everything worse.

At the same time, I always knew that I wanted to build something of my own while also making a positive impact on others. That mindset was instilled in me by my dad at a young age. Through him, I learned about Coffee Silverskin Extract and its incredible benefits for both the skin and the environment. Once I discovered that, everything clicked. I knew this was the path I was meant to take.

So, my family and I decided to start Tepi Naturals, with upcycled Coffee Silverskin Extract as the core of every product. Our mission is to bring people clean, natural skincare that’s good for them and the planet. The thought process behind it all was a culmination of personal experience, a passion for chemistry, and a belief in using nature as intended.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Tepi Naturals is our family’s passion project turned eco-luxury skincare brand. We make clean, plant-based products for sensitive skin using a unique ingredient — upcycled coffee silverskin, a nutrient-rich layer that’s usually tossed during coffee production. It’s our way of turning something often treated as waste into something truly beneficial for the skin. What makes us different is that we combine science, nature, and intention — keeping our formulas simple but effective, while also thinking about sustainability and the planet.

Our journey hasn’t been easy, but it’s been rewarding. Through it all, we’ve learned that listening to our customers, staying true to our values, and focusing on the quality of the products are the most important parts of building a business.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’m definitely more of a homebody, but there are still a few spots in Orange County that I absolutely love and would have to take a friend visiting to.

First, there’s Concourse Bowling in Anaheim – there’s so much more to do there than just bowling, but that’s my favorite part and I would have to share that fun experience with a friend in town.

Food wise, my go to date night spot would be Reunion Kitchen and Drink. They offer an upscale experience without absolutely breaking the bank. All while maintaining a rustic, clean, and relaxing ambiance under mild lighting. With a wide range of entrees and drinks available, this establishment brings a refreshing feel to the evening; perfect for everyone.

For something more outdoorsy, I’d take them to Chino Hills, especially in the spring. The hills are completely green during that time of year with mustard flowers and wild sage all along the trails. I don’t know if this is a huge selling point for anyone else out there, but if you go early in the morning when it’s still a little dewy, the plantlife catches the light in a really beautiful way. There’s also fantastic horse trails you can stroll through. If you climb high enough into Chino Hills, you get a gorgeous view of Los Angeles. On a clear, sunny day, you can even spot Catalina Island from up there.

And, of course, no trip would be complete without hitting Black Gold Golf Club. With views that overlook the gorgeous city of Yorba Linda, and beyond, this is a must for golf enthusiasts. If you’re looking to hit balls or practice your swing they have you covered as well with a solid driving range.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
At the very top of my list is my father, I owe it all to him. He’s played an instrumental role not only in my upbringing, but through every stage of the company’s growth. But I can’t leave out the rest of my family, who have all contributed so much to getting us where we are today. The products we’ve created would not exist without the help of every single one of them, even in the smallest details.

My sister, with her insane artistic vision and keen eye for design, has made the packaging and aesthetics of our products come to life in a way I couldn’t have imagined. And my mother has also been a huge part of our journey as well – her analytical mindset and the way she keeps everything running smoothly behind-the-scenes, especially when it comes to our presence at shows, has been invaluable.

Truly, this company is the product of a collective effort, and I’m deeply grateful for the love, support, and hard work my entire family has put in.

Website: https://www.tepinaturals.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tepinaturals/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TepiNaturals

Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@tepinaturals