In the heart of Calgary, a purpose-driven sleepwear company is making waves by addressing a common yet often overlooked women's health issue: night sweats. Lusomé, founded by local entrepreneur Lara Smith, is leveraging specialized fabric technology to bring comfort and restful sleep back to women globally.
A Personal Mission Sparks Innovation
The genesis of Lusomé dates back 13 years to a deeply personal experience. Founder Lara Smith watched her sister endure severe side effects, including debilitating night sweats, while undergoing treatment for breast cancer. Working in apparel at the time, Smith searched for a solution—pyjamas that were both technically advanced to manage moisture and stylish. Finding nothing on the market, she saw a clear gap.
"That was my call to action," Smith stated, reflecting on the moment that inspired her to launch Lusomé and support the multitude of women she felt were "suffering in silence."
Building a Global Community
Smith's commitment quickly resonated. The brand gained significant traction, catching the eye of media and tech leaders. A pivotal moment came in 2017 when Lusomé pyjamas were featured in Oprah magazine's favourite things list. This recognition catapulted the company and spurred Smith to expand into research and development for technical bedsheets.
These sheets employ a unique technology designed to absorb heat energy before the body even begins to sweat, offering a proactive solution for a better night's sleep.
More Than a Product: A Movement in Women's Health
While night sweats can be triggered by various factors like hormonal diseases, medication, or thyroid issues, Smith highlights that women navigating menopause are a key demographic. "That’s how it started in 2012, way before menopause was a sexy conversation," she noted, emphasizing her long-term dedication to this underrepresented market.
The statistics are staggering: 80 per cent of all women struggle with night sweats for an average of seven years. Seeing a lack of support from mainstream practitioners, Smith expanded her company's mission beyond products.
She launched the Sweaty Pillow podcast, which has since been voted a top 10 menopause podcast, to foster open dialogue. Furthermore, she created the Sweaty Pillow Community, providing women with vital access to information, resources, and education.
"We wake up in service of women every day," said Smith, encapsulating the driving philosophy behind her Calgary-based enterprise. Lusomé stands as a testament to how personal passion, combined with innovative technology, can create meaningful change in women's lives.
