Atul Bhatara: Overcoming Disabilities to Build a Beauty Brand

Atul Bhatara, a Long Island man with cerebral palsy, has created a unique skincare line. His love for skincare started in childhood when he learned homemade remedies from his grandmother, mother, and aunt in India. They used yogurt mixed with turmeric, saffron, and cinnamon as face masks. These natural treatments inspired his own products years later.

A Skincare Line Inspired by Family Traditions

Bhatara’s “Atul Skincare” products use the same simple ingredients he grew up with. His creams, clays, and cleansers also include blue light protection. He says they help clean the skin deeply and feel refreshing. His skincare line stands out because of its natural colors and traditional remedies. Unlike most commercial brands, his products focus on time-tested ingredients.

A Lifetime of Challenges and Overcoming Obstacles

Born in Queens, Bhatara moved between different countries from ages five to nine. He always felt underestimated. Many people could not place where he belonged, but that only made him stronger. He was born four months premature and had 14 surgeries to help with mobility issues. When he returned to Woodside as a young boy, teachers helped him move out of special education. He was thankful for their support and determined to prove himself.

From Finance to Skincare: A Career Change During the Pandemic

Bhatara graduated from St. John’s University in 2003 with a finance degree. He spent over a decade managing his family’s restaurant and catering business near Citi Field. But when the pandemic forced the business to close temporarily, he started exploring other passions. A visit to a private label skincare company with his cousin changed everything. That meeting sparked the idea for Atul Skincare. Even though he had no experience in the beauty industry, he took a leap of faith and launched his own brand.

A Strong Community Response and Giving Back

People are amazed by his products. When they hear he had no prior experience, they cannot believe it. To give back, Bhatara will donate 200 skincare products to Cohen Children’s Medical Center on March 26. His mother was a nurse, and he wants to support caregivers who often neglect their own self-care. He believes small gestures like this can make a big difference.

More Than Just a Business: A Mission to Inspire Others

For Bhatara, this business is about more than just skincare. He knows that people with disabilities often struggle financially. He wants to change that. He believes in leaving doors open for others to follow. He encourages disabled individuals to find a passion they can turn into income. The internet, he says, is a powerful tool for drawing attention to their causes and building a business.

The Power of Dreams and Never Giving Up

Bhatara has one clear message: dream big. He believes that people should protect their dreams and never let others hold them back. His journey proves that hard work and determination can turn challenges into success. His story is a reminder that anything is possible with the right mindset.