KENNEBUNK — Two sisters who supported each other during a challenging health journey have created a new nationwide cosmetics line as a result of their experience.

Sarah Kelly of Kennebunk survived a bout with stage 3 breast cancer with the encouragement of her sister Leah Robert, an oncology nurse in Scarborough, and together they launched SaltyGirl Beauty producing high-quality and sustainable beauty products in June.  

Based in Kennebunk, SaltyGirl Beauty provides women with a complete nourishing beauty product line using certified organic and natural ingredients all made in America.

“After losing my hair during cancer treatment, I felt like I’d lost a part of what made me feel beautiful,” Kelly said. “I ended up turning to my favorite lipstick and scarf to help me reclaim my confidence during that tough time. Our goal with SaltyGirl Beauty is to create products that allow women to feel beautiful and confident without compromise.”

With its nationwide online launch  and featuring a new e-commerce website, the company sells lipsticks, foundations, concealers, mascaras and multi-sticks. 

Kelly said that each colored product in the line was named after women who demonstrate strength, sass, and beauty, the pillars of what makes a “SaltyGirl.” 

Her passion for natural sustainable products and business grew since starting her career 15 years ago when she worked for Tom’s of Maine. She earned an MBA from Simmons College in Boston with a focus on sustainability in business in 2010 and is the mother of two small children.

In 2015, Kelly was diagnosed with breast cancer while she was 32 weeks pregnant.

Now recovered, she credits her sister Leah with helping her keep her spirits up throughout the ordeal.

Robert grew up with an interest in health and a desire to help others. She became an oncology nurse in 2008 and has competed in three marathons and an Olympic triathlon.

She says that she loves pushing herself and that exercising and staying healthy is and always will be something that she loves to do. 

According to Robert, she’s very excited to help educate and share her knowledge on all natural/organic products that will make women feel beautiful from the inside and out.

Robert said that opening her own business with her sister is something she has always dreamt about and having it come true is truly exciting for her.

As Kelly fought to overcome breast cancer, she joined with Robert to create “Foundation4Love,” a nonprofit organization whose mission is to give cancer patients a way to disconnect from their illness and connect with their loved ones. 

And as they have launched the new cosmetics line, the sisters have committed to donating 10 percent of all SaltyGirl proceeds to support “Foundation4Love.”

The new product line and company is drawing endorsements from medical professionals.

“I am so pleased to be able to refer my patients to a product line that enhances their natural beauty without posing health risks, said Dr. Tracey F. Weisberg, president of the New England Cancer Specialists Center. “I am thrilled as well to introduce these healthy lifestyle products to my friends. These products are a joy to use for both individuals going through cancer care as well as those just wanting to enhance their overall health.”

The sisters also have a SaltyGirl Boutique at 2 Morning Walk Way in Kennebunkport.

For more information about SaltyGirl Beauty, visit www.saltygirlbeauty.com or call 956-0425. You can also connect with the brand on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

— Executive Editor Ed Pierce can be reached at 282-1535 ext. 326 or by email at [email protected].