A longtime esthetician and skincare expert, Alexia Wambua discovered a need among her clients for clean and effective products, which eventually led her to create Native Atlas—a line of self-care products for skin and hair that are infused with global experiences. Wambua is from Cocoa Beach, Florida; her husband Chris is from Nairobi, Kenya; and their two children serve as a constant source of inspiration and innovation for the brand.

Native Atlas’ formulas feature wildcrafted and certified organic plants, along with cold-pressed and unrefined oils, which are sourced globally from their local origins. All of the innovative products, from luxurious body oils and bath soaks to facial care and more, are free of chemicals, parabens, and synthetic oils—ensuring a relaxing and enjoyable self-care experience that nurtures, heals, and balances the mind and body. To learn more about the ingredients used in Native Atlas products, click here.

“Being an esthetician for over 16 years, I noticed there was a lack of accessibility to the clean products I used in the treatment room,” says Wambua. “I wanted to bring products that were all-natural and free from harsh chemicals to my clients. To meet the skin concerns my clients were having, I would mix small batches and use them during my treatments. When I started getting requests for products to take home, I knew I had to take the next step and launch a skin and body care line that my clients could add into their self-care routines.”

We chatted with Wambua, who shared the inspiration behind her clean skincare brand, the meaning behind the name, her favorite products from the line, and more.

When was Native Atlas founded?

Native Atlas was born in 2014 with the purpose of providing simple, clean, and effective products that can seamlessly be incorporated into everyday life. Each product from our line is sourced globally from their local regions with sustainability at the forefront. Featuring wildcrafted or certified organic plants alongside cold-pressed or unrefined oils, every collection is created without harsh chemicals, parabens or synthetic oils. 

What’s the meaning behind the name?

The name Native Atlas incorporates the global aspect of the brand. Our products are inspired by the world at large and we use quality ingredients from all over the world—from North America to Africa—and everywhere in-between.

Tell us more about your skincare line and what makes it special.

Our line of products were all created from a need. Our Misuli collection, for example, started when my husband suffered from dry, cracked hands and I set out to formulate a product that soothed and hydrated. Every product fulfills a skincare concern that I encountered through my work as an esthetician and in my personal life. 

Do you have a hero product?

My hero product is the Universal Oil collection. These multi-purpose oils can be used on your body, skin, and hair. It features four oils: Cocoa Beach, Nairobi, Omnis, and Sanaa with scents that transport you to a different place. This collection tells the story of Native Atlas and celebrates the powerful, natural plant-based ingredients designed to heal, soothe, and hydrate. 

What’s your favorite product from the line?

I have a couple of favorite products from the line. I love my Rewind Tonic and Mimea Oil Cleanser and always have them on hand for personal use. 

Where are your products sold?

Native Atlas is sold on our website as well as The Detox Market, Lemon Lain, and The Now Massage. 

What's next for the brand?

Native Atlas has some exciting things coming. In the coming months, we’ll be expanding our line with new products along with selections for holiday.

For more information and to purchase, visit nativeatlas.com and follow on Instagram: @native_atlas

[Images courtesy of Native Atlas]

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