How two Limerick friends are looking to revolutionise the athletic cosmetics industry

Eoin Breen and Kevin Moore grew up not far from each other in West Limerick – they're from Glin and Ballyhahill – and even attended the same primary school, Ballyhahill NS.

Now at 30, they've teamed up to co-found Atlantik Body Care Ireland, a natural skincare brand designed to tackle some of the biggest issues faced by athletes and active individuals.

"We've known each other forever," says Kevin, laughing. "We've always been into health, fitness, and wellness. We're sports guys and nutrition, exercise, fitness were just natural interests for us. Kevin even ran his own snack company at one point. The idea for skincare, though, was a new direction."

That direction came about during a conversation two years ago, when the pair noticed a clear gap in the health market.

While fitness and nutrition had exploded in popularity, skin health seemed stuck in the background, especially for athletes. "For so many athletes, skin issues are almost expected, but no one really talks about it. Whether it's blisters, calluses, or irritation, these are real concerns and the products on the market didn't really address these issues," Kevin explains.

It was this realisation that sparked their decision to dive headfirst into the skincare industry. Rather than simply creating another skincare line, Eoin and Kevin envisioned a brand that would directly address the needs of active people while prioritising natural ingredients.

Though neither of the duo came from a cosmetic background, their determination led them to partner with experts in the field.

They teamed up with "a couple of geniuses", Dr Neil Maher, a scientist with four decades of experience in skincare formulation, and Séamus Lynch, who contributed expertise in the development process.

"Together, we developed formulas that use powerful natural ingredients, particularly seaweed from Ballybunion in Kerry, which is incredibly rich in minerals," said Kevin.

"We have six to eight different types of Irish seaweed in our products. It's an untapped superfood in skincare that's only recently started getting the recognition it deserves."

Alongside the seaweed, the pair sourced the highest-grade plant oils from around the world, and after only being in business since July, are hoping to take the Irish and global markets by storm.

Building Atlantik Bodycare has been a team effort, not only between the business partners, but also with the help of their families.

"My father, Tom, is a graphic designer, and he's been a massive help with branding for Atlantik," says Kevin. "He runs his own design business, Janus Design, and has been there every step of the way with advice and support."

Eoin has also leaned on family for support: "They help us with marketing on social media deal with any new unveilings of products and have been very supportive in any bit of feedback they can give us."

Having women's input is also important to the pair, and Kevin jokes: "As two males, it's all about the woman's touch at the end of the day!"

In seriousness, he adds: "The female voices around us are so, so important and we're very aware that they're a big help and add balance."

Balancing Atlantik with their other commitments has been a challenge as both founders work other jobs and pour every spare moment into their business.

"There are times when I tell myself I'm going to bed early," Eoin chuckles, "but then I end up doing a little more like making the website easier for customers or chasing leads. It's hard to step away, but the customer feedback makes it so rewarding."

Excited about the unique direction of Atlantik Body Care, the pair are determined to reshape the cosmetic health market. "When people think about skincare, they often picture luxury or beauty products, but we're really focused on wellness," Kevin explains.

"Our products are designed to solve real issues for active people—athletes who deal with skin irritations, runners who get blisters," he adds.

Adamant that Atlantik isn't a "cute little side project," their commitment has often meant burning the midnight oil. "It's tough," says Kevin, "but when you know the potential, you just keep going."