…When botanical meets science, it creates a powerful synergy that elevates clean beauty to new heights. This fusion allows us to harness the natural efficacy of plant-based ingredients while ensuring they are backed by rigorous scientific research. By combining the wisdom of nature with innovative formulations, we can develop products that not only nourish and enhance the skin but also deliver measurable results…
The clean beauty movement is transforming the beauty industry by emphasizing the importance of safe, non-toxic ingredients. Consumers are increasingly concerned about what they put on their skin, leading to a demand for transparency and high standards in beauty products. As a part of this series, I had the distinct pleasure of interviewing Margarita Copeland, founder of Nabaya by Margot. Margarita, a spirited Armenian girl from the Caucasian Mountains in the Russian Federation, has always had a deep appreciation for beauty and skincare. From a young age, she found herself captivated by women who dedicated time to nurturing their skin, viewing it as a form of self-love and artistry. Her mother, a shining role model, epitomized this ethos.. No matter the circumstances, she consistently prioritizes her skincare routine, instilling in Margarita the importance of caring for oneself.
Growing up in the serene embrace of the mountains, Margarita was surrounded by nature’s beauty and learned to see the world through a lens of appreciation. This upbringing fueled her curiosity and passion for skincare, leading her to explore the connection between natural ingredients and personal wellness. Her journey toward creating a skincare brand for sensitive skin was born from these early inspirations, reflecting her desire to empower others to embrace their own beauty and self-care rituals with the same love her mother had shown her.
Driven by her passion for beauty and skincare, Margarita pursued her dreams at a prestigious Beauty institute in Moscow. There, she immersed herself in the world of skincare, gaining invaluable knowledge about skin issues, cream formulations, and effective treatments. This education ignited her dedication to helping others achieve healthy, radiant skin.
In addition to her studies, Margarita expanded her expertise by working as a hairdresser, where she honed her skills in styling and aesthetics. This experience enhanced her understanding of beauty in all its forms. Eager to deepen her artistry, she attended makeup school, where she learned the intricacies of makeup application and techniques.
With a comprehensive background in skincare, hair, and makeup, Margarita dedicated her career to empowering individuals to embrace their beauty. Her multifaceted journey not only shaped her into a skilled professional but also fueled her desire to create a skincare brand that addresses the unique needs of those with sensitive skin. Through her work, she aims to inspire confidence and self-love in everyone she encounters.
Thank you so much for joining us! Can you share with us the most interesting story from your career?
One memorable instance was when I hosted a skincare workshop at my salon. Attendees ranged from young adults to older women, all eager to learn about skincare solutions. Rather than treating it as just another event, I took the time to engage with each participant individually, asking about their specific concerns and experiences.
Can you tell us what lessons or ‘takeaways’ you learned from that?
I learned that the connections I made with my clients allowed them to feel seen and valued, fostering a deeper sense of trust. By taking the time to understand their unique stories, I could tailor my advice and recommendations to meet their individual needs. This approach not only enriched my clients’ experiences but also cultivated a loyal customer base that felt a genuine bond with me and my brand. I realized that beauty is not just about products; it’s about the relationships formed along the way, creating a sense of belonging and support in the journey toward self-care and confidence.
You are a successful individual. Which three character traits do you think were most instrumental to your success? Can you please share a story or example for each?
The three character traits I believe were most instrumental to my success are determination, empathy, and creativity.
Determination: A pivotal moment in my career occurred while launching my skincare line. After months of hard work, my first batch faced unexpected challenges — some formulations didn’t meet my quality standards, and a key supplier fell through. Undeterred, my determination fueled my efforts to find solutions. I spent countless nights researching and reformulating my products while seeking new suppliers who aligned with my vision. This relentless pursuit ultimately led to a successful launch, earning my brand rave reviews for its quality and effectiveness.
Empathy: A defining moment for me came during a busy season when I noticed many clients expressing concerns about skin irritations. Instead of dismissing their complaints, I organized focus groups to listen directly to their experiences. This revealed not only their skin issues but also their emotional struggles. Understanding their needs inspired me to create a new line of products specifically for sensitive skin. This empathetic approach deepened my connection with clients and enriched my offerings, highlighting the importance of listening in my work.
Creativity: My creative side shines through in my passion for blending botanicals with science. I have a deep love for nature and an appreciation for the healing properties of herbs. This unique fusion allows me to develop skincare products that harness the power of natural ingredients while ensuring they are effective and safe. I am also acutely aware of the latest trends in the beauty and fashion industries, which I seamlessly integrate into my brand. My creativity lies in my ability to adapt and innovate, responding to evolving consumer preferences while maintaining my commitment to natural ingredients. By curating collections that reflect current trends — such as eco-friendly packaging and inclusive shades — I not only stay relevant but also empower women to embrace their individuality and express themselves confidently. This foresight and adaptability in my creative process are key to my brand’s success.
Are you working on any exciting new projects now? How do you think that might help people?
I am currently working on exciting new projects focused on community engagement and education. I am creating specialized focus groups where participants can share their experiences, try new formulas, and learn about effective skincare practices. By guiding individuals on how to shop for products, prevent skin sensitivity, and transform their routines into self-care rituals, I aim to foster a deeper appreciation for holistic beauty. I believe that nurturing beautiful skin involves not just quality products, but also a commitment to nutrition, sleep, and daily self-care rituals. Through these initiatives, I hope to empower others to embrace a more mindful and loving approach to skincare.
I am also passionate about raising awareness around skincare choices, emphasizing that the skin is the body’s largest organ and requires careful consideration. Through my focus groups, I aim to educate participants on the importance of understanding the ingredients in their products and the impact these choices have on their health. I believe that by fostering awareness and encouraging informed decision-making, people can cultivate a more mindful relationship with their skincare. I am dedicated to helping individuals recognize the significance of what they apply to their skin, ultimately empowering them to make choices that enhance their well-being and beauty.
Ok, thank you for all that. Now let’s shift to the main focus of our interview. What inspired your brand to focus on clean beauty, and how do you define ‘clean’ in the context of your products?
I was inspired to create my brand focused on clean beauty after experiencing the negative effects of harsh ingredients in many skincare products. Frustrated by the overwhelming presence of unnecessary additives, fragrances, and allergens that led to inflammation and health issues, she set out to redefine what clean beauty means. For me clean products are those free from harmful chemicals and artificial fragrances, packed instead with beneficial ingredients that nourish and protect the skin. I believe in formulating products that cater to everyone, including those with sensitive skin, ensuring they can enjoy skincare without fear of flare-ups. My commitment to clean beauty is about promoting wellness, enhancing natural glow, and supporting skin health without compromise.
My vision of clean beauty is rooted in the belief that skincare should be pure and effective. In my brand “clean” means products that are free from synthetic fragrances and filled with high-active botanical ingredients. I meticulously blends the power of science with nature, creating formulations that not only calm and protect the skin but also prevent irritation and support long-term health. Each product is designed to harness the soothing properties of botanicals, ensuring that even the most sensitive skin can thrive. My commitment to clean beauty is a celebration of harmony between nature and science, empowering individuals to care for their skin with confidence and joy.
How do you ensure the ingredients in your products meet clean beauty standards, and what criteria do you use to select them?
My commitment to clean beauty is reflected in the rigorous ingredient selection process. Understanding the importance of safety and efficacy, I collaborates closely with my focus groups, dedicating months — often up to six — for thorough testing. My own experience with sensitive skin drives my passion for ensuring that each product is gentle and effective.
The criteria I use to select ingredients are simple yet profound: if any participant experiences irritation, redness, or itching, those ingredients are reassessed or eliminated. Through careful evaluation and multiple testing phases, I ensure that the formulations are free from harmful reactions, ultimately crafting products that everyone can trust. This authentic approach not only underscores my dedication to clean beauty but also fosters a sense of community and shared wellness among my clients.
What steps do you take to educate consumers about the importance of clean ingredients and how they can make informed choices when purchasing beauty products?
I am so passionate about empowering consumers through education on the importance of clean ingredients in beauty products. I actively share my insights on social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook, emphasizing how informed choices can lead to healthier skin and overall well-being.
Recognizing the need for a deeper conversation, I plan to expand my outreach by inviting diverse voices into the dialogue. By featuring guests such as nutritionists and medical professionals, I aim to create a rich tapestry of knowledge that addresses various health issues and concerns. I believe that by fostering community discussions and sharing expert insights, she can help individuals navigate the complexities of beauty product choices, ultimately leading them toward healthier, more informed decisions. My commitment to education not only cultivates awareness but also inspires a movement towards a cleaner, more responsible beauty industry.
What innovative or unconventional ingredients are you most excited about in the clean beauty space, and why?
Peptides, these small chains of amino acids are celebrated for their ability to support skin structure and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. They help stimulate collagen production, making them a powerhouse in anti-aging formulations.
Glycolic acid, glycolic acid is a powerful alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from sugar cane, known for its ability to gently exfoliate the skin, improve texture, and enhance radiance by promoting cell turnover. It effectively reduces the appearance of fine lines, dark spots, and acne, making it a staple ingredient in many skincare formulations.
Arnica, this botanical ingredient is renowned for its anti-inflammatory and healing properties. It’s especially beneficial for calming redness and soothing sensitive skin.
These innovative ingredients not only offer effective skincare solutions but also align with the principles of clean beauty by prioritizing safety and natural sourcing.
Chamomile, renowned for its calming properties, chamomile helps soothe irritated skin and reduce redness, making it ideal for sensitive skin types.
Calendula, this vibrant flower is known for its healing and anti-inflammatory effects. It promotes skin repair and is excellent for addressing dryness and irritation.
Green Tea, rich in antioxidants, green tea helps protect the skin from environmental damage and reduces signs of aging. Its anti-inflammatory properties also help calm the skin.
Aloe Vera, known for its hydrating and soothing qualities, aloe vera provides moisture while promoting healing for sunburns and other skin irritations.
Lavender, this aromatic herb not only adds a lovely scent but also offers calming effects on the skin. It helps reduce inflammation and promotes a sense of relaxation.
Rosemary, packed with antioxidants, helps improve circulation and has antimicrobial properties, making it beneficial for acne-prone skin.
Gotu Kola, known for its skin-rejuvenating properties, gotu kola stimulates collagen production and helps improve skin elasticity, making it great for anti-aging formulations.
These botanical herbs are carefully selected for their efficacy and safety, reflecting Margarita’s commitment to clean beauty and the well-being of her customers.
Can you share a story where switching to clean beauty ingredients led to a significant and unexpected benefit for your customers?
My journey into the world of clean beauty began with a simple observation: many customers were disillusioned with traditional products that promised luxury but delivered little more than empty promises. Frustrated by the overwhelming array of expensive, chemically-laden options that often caused irritation or yielded minimal results, I decided to create a line focused on genuine efficacy and safety.
As my customers began to switch the thoughtfully formulated products, they experienced a remarkable transformation. The luxurious textures, infused with potent botanical ingredients, provided immediate hydration and visible results. Many reported glowing skin within just days of use, and their trust in the brand deepened with every application.
For some, this shift was a revelation — a gateway to a new world of skincare that felt both effective and nurturing. They fell in love with the clean formulations that not only enhanced their beauty but also aligned with their values. As they shared their glowing skin stories, a community blossomed around Nabaya’s brand, united by the belief that beauty should be both luxurious and authentic. In this new era of skincare, her customers discovered not just products, but a holistic approach to beauty that truly made a difference.
Here is our main question. Based on your research or experience, can you please share your “5 Things You Need To Create a Successful Clean Beauty Brand”?(Please share a story or an example for each)
1 . Innovative formulation I am passionate about creating unique, effective products that stand out in the crowd market I spending month, researching me and my researching and testing different formulas, botanic extract and cutting age ingredients when my products launch customers are amazed and visible results with win the weeks leading to array reviews as strong ward of mouth following please create for me.
2 . Transparency I firmly believe that transparency is key in the beauty industry. My customers deserve to know exactly what’s in their products, so I prioritize sharing detailed ingredient lists and sourcing information. During product launches, I engage with my community through live Q&A sessions, encouraging questions about the ingredients and their benefits. This openness has helped me build a loyal customer base that values honesty and trusts my brand, creating a genuine connection with those who seek effective and safe skincare solutions.
3. Establishing a clear and honest brand mission and values is fundamental to our skincare brand’s identity. Our mission is rooted in authenticity — we are committed to using only clean, sustainably sourced ingredients that genuinely benefit the skin and respect the environment. By sharing our real story and the values that drive us, we aim to foster trust and transparency with our customers, ensuring they feel confident in choosing products that align with their own values and well-being. This integrity not only differentiates our brand in a crowded market but also builds lasting relationships with our community.
4 . Work with the botanical and science both!
When botanical meets science, it creates a powerful synergy that elevates clean beauty to new heights. This fusion allows us to harness the natural efficacy of plant-based ingredients while ensuring they are backed by rigorous scientific research. By combining the wisdom of nature with innovative formulations, we can develop products that not only nourish and enhance the skin but also deliver measurable results.
This approach not only fosters trust among consumers but also empowers them to make informed choices about their beauty routines, ultimately leading to a healthier, more sustainable relationship with beauty.
Community engagement is essential for building a successful clean beauty brand, as it allows us to listen directly to our customers and understand their unique needs and desires. By fostering open dialogue through social media, surveys, and events, we can gather valuable insights that inform our product development process. This collaborative approach ensures that our product line not only meets the expectations of our target audience but also resonates with their values and lifestyles.
Ultimately, by prioritizing community feedback, we create a brand that feels inclusive and responsive, strengthening customer loyalty and building a genuine connection with our consumers.
How do you foresee the clean beauty movement evolving in the next decade, and what role do you see your brand playing in that future?
I foresee the clean beauty movement evolving significantly in the next decade, driven by a growing awareness of the impact of environmental stressors and lifestyle choices on skin health. As more people develop sensitivities and seek to simplify their routines, there will be an increased demand for transparent, clean products with minimal, effective ingredients. Consumers will become more discerning, carefully reading labels and prioritizing brands that commit to authenticity and sustainability. My brand aims to lead this charge by providing products that not only nourish the skin but also empower consumers to make informed choices about their beauty routines, ultimately fostering a deeper connection to nature and personal well-being.
What is the best way for our readers to continue to follow your work online?
I prioritize keeping everything centralized on my personal Instagram account to make it easy for my audience. They don’t have to navigate through multiple platforms; instead, they can find everything they need in one place. By following me on Instagram, they can be part of an interactive community that prioritizes transparency and education in skincare.
