Our latest Beauty Boss is Anna Ayers, Co-Founder of Rahua—a line of haircare and body products that are deeply rooted in rainforest preservation. Ayers’ husband Fabian Lliguin is a renowned hairstylist and colorist in New York City who discovered the incredible benefits of rahua oil during a visit to the Amazon rainforest, which has been used for centuries by members of the tribe.

In 2008, the husband and wife duo joined forces to launch Rahua and drew upon the wisdom of the legendary Amazon people to formulate a line of innovative, plant-based products that heal, nourish, beautify and transform. Together, they work with families from the Quechua-Shuar, Achuar and neighboring tribes to cultivate the rainforest-grown ingredients used in Rahua products.

Rahua’s conservation efforts extend far beyond its clean, sustainable and concentrated handmade formulas. The brand has implemented reduced packaging, offers Refill Solutions, and introduced 100% PCR caps on their Enchanted Island Collection. They also announced The Commitment, a vow to continue the brand’s long-standing environmental and activist work in the rainforest and surrounding communities. Their goals include defending Galapagos Endemic Species, water conservation, Carbon Neutral and beyond preservation efforts, and more.

We chatted with Ayers, who shared the inspiration behind the brand, secrets for success, wellness tips, and much more.

When was Rahua founded and what does the name mean?

Rahua (pronounced “ra-wa”) is an Incan word rooted in the phrase “for volcanic fire” and the name of a beautiful Incan princess. The word was adopted as the name of the ancient Indigenous ceremonial process of obtaining rahua oil in the Amazon rainforest. The brand was founded on the discovery of the wondrous benefits that rahua oil provides to the hair in 2008.

What inspired the creation of the brand?

My partner Fabian and I created the Rahua brand to preserve the Amazon Rainforest. We were driven and inspired to find a way to protect the rainforest. We found the best way for us to do this was through beauty; connecting people to the power and beauty of the rainforest through thoughtful hair and beauty rituals. When customers choose Rahua they are prioritizing the importance of preserving the majestic Amazonian jungle and are part of preserving ancient cultures and knowledge of the Indigenous communities for the future of our world.

Does Rahua have a hero product?

All of our products are “heroes” and are created purposefully to provide great function and make life happy and enjoyable. If I had to choose one hero it would be Rahua Elixir. This is the pure, potent oil (handmade) as the ladies in the rainforest make it, and each drop has the power to bring new life and health, transforming hair and scalp.

What’s your favorite product from the line?

I love our Classic Shampoo and Classic Conditioner, and the Leave-in Treatment—one of our original creations—is a must have that keeps hair strong, long and healthy. I also have an affinity for our new Aloe Vera Hair Gel, it's a refreshing take on a styling product and it heals the hair while you are styling. Each of our products are like my babies so I have an affinity for them all!

Where are your products sold?

You can find Rahua on our website, The Detox Market, Goop, BlueMercury, Net-a-Porter, Harrods, Samaritaine, and Le Bon Marche.

Future plans for the brand?

Our environmental endeavors are always at the forefront and we have great plans for preserving larger expenses of lands in the rainforest. Currently we are preserving 150,000 acres of pristine jungle for perpetuity and this is just the beginning. From a product standpoint we will continue innovating inspired by Mother Nature and the power that plants provide.

Who inspires you?

Nature inspires me. The beauty I find in nature is peaceful and serene, and it brings answers to life’s questions. I am especially inspired by colors, patterns and scents of plants and flowers.

Secret to success?

Stay focused, follow your passion, create with purpose, help others.

Beauty secrets?

Sleep, drink lots of water, happiness, surround yourself with the people you love.

Wellness tips? 

Yoga, stretching, meditation, and my own blend of herbal teas.

Best advice?

Surround yourself with optimistic people and keep growing and learning always.

How do you like to relax?

Slow down, breathing/meditation, escape to the country, and go on nature walks.

For more information, visit Rahua’s website and follow on Instagram: @rahuabeauty

[Images courtesy of Rahua]

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