Founders who launched beauty/DTC brands – what do you wish you’d done differently in your first 6 months?

I’m a founder working on a DTC skincare brand aimed at the US market (K-beauty inspired, science/biotech-leaning formulas). I’d really like to avoid some of the classic mistakes around launch and early growth.

For those who have built beauty/DTC brands:

• Looking back at your first 6 months, what are 1–2 decisions you would absolutely NOT repeat (channels, messaging, pricing, inventory, influencers etc.)?

• Were there any “must-do” launch tactics that turned out to be overrated for you?

• Conversely, is there something small you did early on that had a surprisingly big impact?

Short, concrete stories are super welcome – I’m trying to learn from people who’ve already been through it.