Beauty Boss: Reshona Jessamy, Founder of Novara
Reshona Jessamy.
Our latest Beauty Boss is Reshona Jessamy, Founder of Novara—a line of high-quality skincare products that are clean, safe, highly efficacious, and feature ingredients sourced from around the world. With a team of dermatologists and other experts, Jessamy has created results-oriented skincare recipes that are formulated with nature’s botanicals including various flowers, plants, and seeds. Novara believes in the power of skincare to transform lives, not just by nurturing skin but by nurturing an individual’s self-worth.
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A suicide attempt survivor, Jessamy and her company have made it a mission to make a difference in the lives of those suffering from thoughts and threats of suicide. They have partnered with and donate a portion of proceeds to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, a voluntary health organization that empowers people affected by suicide by offering a community that provides research, education, and advocacy to take action against this leading cause of death.
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We chatted with Jessamy who shared her favorite beauty and wellness tips, secrets for success, best advice, and much more.
When was Novara founded and how did you choose the name for your brand?
In 2015, the idea for Novara was born. In the years that followed, when time permitted I traveled, read books, listened to podcasts, and conducted extensive research, laying the foundation for the brand. In 2022, I put together a team of expert cosmetic chemists, dermatologists, and botanists to formulate our inaugural line, The Waterfall Collection.
The name "Novara" holds a profound meaning. It's a fusion of "Nova," a Latin word signifying 'new,' and 'Ra,' which is the first phonetic of my own name. This combination beautifully encapsulates the essence of our brand, representing a transformation and renewal—both in the products we offer and in the profound personal journey that led to the creation of Novara.
What inspired the creation of the brand?
I was inspired to start Novara after my own personal struggle with mental health. In 2012, I was just beginning my dream job, and eager to make positive change in the world. But in 2015, I found myself in a toxic workplace, unrecognized and undervalued compared to my mostly male peers. Suddenly, I was unjustly fired. Spiraling into depression and haunted by a sense of inadequacy that deepened my self-consciousness, the unimaginable happened. I attempted suicide.
From that dark moment, I began a journey to rebuild my sense of self-worth, seeking therapy and taking care of myself in new ways. On my quest, I found support in an unlikely place: skincare rituals from around the world. Lovingly passed down, they speak of a connection to each other with the potential to bring comfort and care to those who feel disconnected and alone. I turned to the natural remedies from my childhood that had once been a cornerstone of my health and skincare regimen and also incorporated skincare rituals from other cultures. Mixing formulas started as a hobby to keep busy, but would eventually become my love.
I found solace and purpose in two pillars that changed my life forever—formulating skincare and engaging in therapy. During this journey, I gained empathy, strength, and understanding. Emerging from it all with the seed of an idea—a brand that would connect beauty with mental health and emotional wellness. This is why we include a unique message of affirmation in each box. These messages are designed to uplift and inspire women to help them on their mental health journey.
Novara ‘s Waterfall Collection improves skin health in five steps with time-honored ingredients.
Does Novara have a hero product?
All of our products are highly efficacious and formulated with the best quality ingredients sourced from around the globe. Unlike other brands that focus on one country or region, Novara combines beauty rituals and secrets from around the world to curate our exceptional inaugural line: The Waterfall Collection.
Our Illuminating Serum is our hero product. This extraordinary formula harnesses the potent synergy of triple hyaluronic acid with varying molecular weights, ensuring deep hydration within the epidermal layers as well as immediate surface hydration. Complementing this, the naturally-derived Anthemis Nobilis Flower facilitates skin repair and rejuvenation.
Additionally, the presence of Hexapeptide, often affectionately referred to as "Botox" in a bottle, works harmoniously within the skin's surface layers to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. This fast-absorbing serum, enriched with time-tested ingredients, visibly plumps the skin while reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, leaving it firmer, radiant, and supple. It's not just a serum—it's a transformative experience.
What are your favorite products from your brand?
To be honest, I have a deep affection for all our products in the line, as they work in perfect harmony to create a comprehensive skincare routine that delivers exceptional results. It's essential to use them together for the most effective outcome.
For instance, our Revitalizing Essence is a personal favorite of mine due to its rich antioxidant content. This step is not one to be skipped, as it primes your skin for the optimal absorption of all subsequent products. It sets the foundation for a truly transformative skincare experience.
Similarly, our Ultra Hydrating Cream holds a special place in my heart. Its masterful formulation includes ingredients like Centella Asiatica, which promotes ceramide production, strengthens the skin's barrier, and enhances collagen synthesis. The prickly pear within it beautifully restores skin elasticity and rejuvenates your skin's natural radiance. It's these carefully chosen ingredients that make our Ultra Hydrating Cream a must-try for anyone seeking deeply hydrated, conditioned, and nourished skin.
Where are your products sold?
Our products are available on our website.
Future plans for the brand?
As we envision the future of Novara, we see it not just as a skincare brand but as a profound catalyst for positive change in the lives of women. We are committed to becoming an iconic presence in the United States and across the globe, dedicated to supporting women on their intricate journeys towards mental well-being.
Our vision for Novara encompasses a multifaceted approach. We will expand into all high-end retail stores, Nordstrom, Saks, Neiman Marcus, and Bergdorf, just to name a few. We also intend to be a beacon of support, offering women transformative opportunities. This includes wellness retreats, grant funding aimed at alleviating the financial burden of therapy services, and Novara Cares—a platform that will host videos from therapists and psychologists covering various mental health topics. Through education and resources, we will empower women to conquer mental health conditions and attain emotional well-being.
Novara’s Oil Free Hydrating Cream ($95) soothes skin while offering essential all-day hydration.
Who inspires you?
I draw immense inspiration from leaders who have not only achieved remarkable success, but have also paved the way for others through their extraordinary leadership. One individual who deeply inspires me is the former CEO of PepsiCo, Indra Nooyi. Her journey resonates with me on a personal level as we share a similar immigrant background.
Indra’s remarkable career trajectory, from immigrating to the U.S. from India to becoming the CEO of a global conglomerate, is awe-inspiring. Her journey reflects the immense possibilities that can be achieved through hard work, dedication, and unwavering determination. What particularly stands out to me is her ability to navigate the corporate world and make strategic decisions that have propelled PepsiCo to new heights.
Indra Nooyi's leadership records and her commitment to innovation, sustainability, and diversity have left an indelible mark on the business world. She has demonstrated that it is possible to lead with kindness and compassion while making astute, visionary decisions. Her ability to balance profitability with social responsibility serves as a guiding light for me in my pursuit of leading Novara to make strategic decisions that align with our mission and, ultimately, to achieve remarkable success.
As I aspire for Novara to reach new heights and, one day, become a company valued at 1 billion dollars, Indra's journey and leadership legacy continues to inspire me. Her example reminds me that with vision, determination, and a commitment to excellence—extraordinary achievements are possible.
Secret to success?
Success secrets involve hard work, persistence, humility, and the ability to accept failure and learn from it. It is essential to prioritize seeking knowledge and learning opportunities continuously to achieve personal and professional growth. It's about setting goals and consistently taking small steps every day to inch closer to those aspirations. Good habits and unwavering dedication play a pivotal role, ensuring that each day is a building block toward your vision.
Positive self-talk and daily affirmations keep you motivated and resilient. Adopting a stoic mindset helps you navigate challenges with grace, focusing on what you can control and letting go of what you can't. I think that success ultimately thrives on discipline, consistency, and a relentless commitment to your goals.
Beauty secrets?
True beauty is rooted in self-care and self-love. Here are a few of my beauty secrets that I use daily to nourish my skin and nurture my self-worth:
Hydration: Keeping your skin well-hydrated is crucial. Our skin needs hydration to maintain its elasticity, which keeps fine lines and wrinkles to a minimum. And hydration helps to strengthen the skin barrier, helping the skin to be resilient to environmental stressors. I would recommend our Ultra Hydrating Cream to anyone looking for intense hydration.
Nutrition: A healthy diet filled with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can work wonders for your skin. Nutrient-rich foods can give you a natural glow. My personal favorites include avocados and pineapples.
Stress Management: Stress can take a toll on your appearance. Find healthy ways to manage stress. I practice meditation and nature walks.
Confidence: Confidence is an underrated beauty secret. I recommend saying daily words of affirmation and using “I am” statements, it can change your perspective on a situation, improve confidence, and boost your mood.
Wellness tips?
Wellness is a holistic concept that encompasses physical, mental, and emotional health. Here are some wellness tips that I recommend to help on your wellness journey:
Prioritize Self-Care: Make time for self-care activities that rejuvenate your mind and body, such as meditation, yoga, or reading.
Regular Exercise: Incorporate physical activity into your daily routine. Exercise not only keeps you fit but also boosts your mood and overall well-being.
Adequate Sleep: Ensure you get enough quality sleep each night. Quality sleep is essential for physical and mental recovery.
Practice Gratitude: Maintain a gratitude journal to reflect on the positive aspects of your life and stay mindful of your blessings.
Remember, wellness is an ongoing journey, and it's essential to find what works best for you. The key is to be consistent in your efforts to maintain a healthy and balanced lifestyle.
Best advice?
The best advice I've received, and that I continually find valuable, is to embrace lifelong learning. This advice encourages us to remain curious, open to new experiences, and committed to personal growth.
By continually seeking knowledge and learning from both successes and failures, we not only expand our horizons but also become more adaptable in an ever-changing world. Learning allows us to make informed decisions, cultivate empathy, and develop a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us.
Favorite way to relax?
I relax in the beauty of simplicity. Amidst my busy schedule, I often seek solace in meditation, allowing me to center my thoughts and find inner peace. I also enjoy nature, which in all its forms is another source of relaxation for me, whether it's a leisurely walk in the park or a serene hike.
More importantly, I value quality time with my husband and kids, cherishing moments of laughter and connection. My deep appreciation for the arts means that I often turn to music as a form of relaxation, I love Soca music and R&B classics.
These practices contribute to my overall sense of balance and well-being, they allow me to navigate life's demands with grace.
For more information about Novara, visit their website and follow on Instagram: @officialnovara
[Images courtesy of Novara]
Kamala Kirk is a University of Southern California graduate and has been an editor/writer for more than a decade. She has written for E! Online, Total Beauty, TravelAge West, Malibu Times Magazine, and many more. She resides in Los Angeles and is a proud pug mom. Follow her on Instagram: @kamalakirk