Launched with just *one* product to start and powered by a clinically-proven blend of algae, MARA Beauty has been making waves in skincare, and we can see why.

Loved by celebrities like Hailey Bieber, Molly Sims, and Chrissy Tiegen (no big deal!), MARA was founded by former TV host and producer Allison McNamara with the idea that anyone should be able to achieve glowy skin in three skincare steps or less.

So, we’re thrilled to launch MARA Beauty to NakedPoppy.com — and couldn’t miss the opportunity to sit down with Allison for the inside scoop. Here, Allison dives into how this magical line was born, her best skincare advice, and the most powerful entrepreneurial lesson she’s learned.

1. Why did you decide to start MARA? Was there a specific moment when you knew you just had to start the company?

I’d always dreamed about having my own skincare line, and the idea for MARA came to me while traveling to Turkey. 

The name MARA is inspired by the Sea of Marmara (a sea in Turkey), but also represents the last four letters of my last name, “McNamara.” McNamara means “sea” in Gaelic.

At the time, we were in the midst of the Korean skincare craze, all about using lots of products in your routine (as many as 12!). I’ve always had the mindset that less is more when it comes to skincare, so I founded MARA on the ethos that you should be able to get amazing results in three steps or less.

At MARA, we’ve developed a very nutrient-dense blend of algae that we collect in Europe and we mix it with exotic superfoods and clean actives so that you can #SeaTheGlow.

2. MARA attracted a cult following right from the start. Tell us about this!

MARA is a modern take on classic skincare, so when we launched, I think it felt both distinctive and different but also a bit heritage. 

I launched with just one product — the Universal Face Oil — which touts so many benefits in one, like aging, hydration, redness, and strengthening the skin barrier. This makes it easy to use, and I think people gravitated towards that.

We also had some celebrities kindly post about us, and that didn’t hurt either.

3. What’s the best beauty advice you ever received?

To stop using self-tanner! I struggled for years feeling insecure about being pale, and left no tanning spray or bed behind.

Luckily, I was told by lots of chic women to just stop using sunless tanner. 

The tanning industry, like the diet industry, thrives on people’s insecurities, but it’s played off in the media as something everyone should do. Now, I prefer a natural look. And I don’t miss the smell.

4. What’s your skincare advice for women in their 20’s and 30’s?

Just like building a wardrobe, build a solid skincare routine. That said, a skincare routine is only as successful as your commitment to it, so make sure to create one that fits your budget and lifestyle so that you can be consistent. Figure out your skin type, do your research, ask questions! 

Listen to your skin. Eat the rainbow when you can. If you feel overwhelmed by the products in your bathroom, then you’ve gone too far. 

5. How about your skincare advice for women in their 40’s, 50’s, and beyond?

I’m not there yet, so I’m speaking from assumptions, but I think we all deserve to give ourselves a little more grace. There’s so much pressure to age perfectly and gracefully.

Routine-wise, I’d recommend using skincare products that increase hydration, and skipping under-eye concealer. Think about reaching for an all-over hydrating tint instead.

6. Do you do anything surprising in order to feel healthier?

I listen to Taylor Swift 😃

But something surprising would probably be: play board games. I think health starts with a sharp mind. A few of my favorite games are Sequence, Catan, Exploding Kittens, and Connect 4.

7. As an entrepreneur, what’s the most powerful lesson you’ve learned? 

To listen to others, but listen to yourself more. Always trust your gut.

8. What makes your life beautiful?

The people in it.

To shop MARA Beauty on NakedPoppy, just click here.