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MARK ROTHKO, UNTITLED, 1968, ACRYLIC ON PAPER

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Leadership Moment: Simple Yet Blunt Advice

Neora’s Monday morning Leadership Moment is a weekly Facebook Live event available only to Neora Brand Partners during which time industry experts share their most insightful tips. This Leadership Moment was adapted from an event hosted on  May 14, 2018, by Neora President Bo Short. 

Lessons Learned

A while back, I listened to a top leader speaking about valuable lessons from life. One simple line from her speech really resonated. She said, “writers write” and so if you want to be a writer you must write. This line is obviously so blunt, yet I think the message is extremely powerful. Think about it: leaders lead, and so if you want to be a leader, go out into the world and lead!

The reality is this: things happen. Some of it is within your control and some of it is not. That’s life! But, it’s also essential you learn how to deal and rise above any issues, challenges, and obstacles that may come your way. You must do this because if you want to be a leader you must be able to lead your team through hardships.

Leadership is born from the experience of overcoming your obstacles. The secret is if you do enough of the right things, obstacles will appear in your rearview mirror. Sadly, people get stuck in the obstacle. Although that’s also normal, make an effort to recognize the obstacle and see the opportunity within your struggle. Therein lies the power!

My amazing wife, Roni, always shares the story of the two marathon runners who cross the finish line, exhausted when they notice a long line of people leading to a table with free bagels. The one runner says, look; there are free bagels! The other runner exclaims, no; look at the long line. One person sees the bagels while the other person sees the long line. One person sees an opportunity while the other person sees an obstacle.

As a leader, your responsibility is to lead others to the opportunity. If you happen to find yourself captured by an obstacle, it’s time to grow, it’s time to step around the obstacle and proceed on a more purpose-driven path. Again, leaders lead, so if you want to be a leader, lead your team around the obstacle in the search for the opportunity. In my opinion you can; in my opinion, you have a responsibility to others to make your best and highest effort to get around any obstacle that’s presented to you. That’s the opportunity! Whatever comes your way this week, this month, this year, knock the challenges out of the way and lead people in the direction of their dreams.

As always, lead.

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3 MORE Tips to Help You Unleash Your Inner Entrepreneur

Part 1: 3 Tips to Help You Unleash Your Inner Entrepreneur.

Starting your own business can be a challenge which is why successful entrepreneurs have to have extraordinary belief in their vision, goals, and capabilities. Last month, I shared with you three tips to help get you on track toward unleashing your inner entrepreneur. In case you missed it, here’s a recap of the tips covered in PART I: 3 Tips to Help You Unleash Your Inner Entrepreneur.

First; DECIDING to do something is not good enough, DOING it is key. You must jump despite your fears or, in the words of John Burroughs, “Leap, and the net will appear.” Second, if you want to step up your game, consistently keep pushing forward because consistency always pays off. Third, train your brain to see challenges as opportunities – the right frame of mind can move mountains, which is why it is essential to cultivate an attitude of gratitude.

I strongly encourage you to read the whole article; to do so, click here. But for the moment, let’s move on to our final three tips to help you unleash your inner entrepreneur.

Build Up Your New Belief Level

Tips one through three are super important by themselves; however, doing the first three steps consistently over a long period of time is key. The tip here is that consistently committing to the action over the long haul will help you build up a new belief level in yourself – one that you can continue over time.

See Yourself Achieving Great Things

It’s safe to assume most people experience the powerful force of burning desire. Even though many people have the desire, they don’t SEE themselves getting the desired result. The individuals who achieve great things are those who not only passionately wanted to achieve it in the first place but also those people who clearly see themselves achieving it. In The Slight Edge, I explain that a burning desire backed by faith means deeply, passionately wanting to get somewhere and knowing – not hoping, not wishing, but knowing that you’re going to get there, i.e., desire and faith go hand in hand.

Be Willing to Pay the Price

Anything worth having is worth paying the price for !!! It’s so important to realize that even though you have big dreams, the steps you’re going to take to get there will likely be small. In her monthly #realchats Facebook Live events, Neora Co-Founder and CMO Amber Olson Rourke has talked about doing what matters most. These two principles are basically the same. Prioritize your dreams and step away from those activities and individuals that are unproductive or just not getting you one step closer to your dreams. Focus on your dream, your goal, your top priority and commit to taking action. What’s more, consistently take small steps to get yourself one step closer to your dream. In The Slight Edge, I write, “Remember, there aren’t many millionaires who bowl over 100. Why not? Because they left the bowling league behind to build their fortunes.” That’s the price millionaires are willing to pay for their success. What’s the price you’re willing to pay to reach your dreams?

At the end of the day, reaching your goals can be much less dramatic and not nearly as impossible to achieve as you may think now. Hopefully, these six tips I’ve shared with you over the course of two blogs will be helpful in your journey. But, if you have any additional questions, submit those below – I’d love to hear from you and be part of your journey!

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a fated pair of star-crossed bunnies 🩷🐇

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You don’t have to force a whole new personality, but reintroduce patterns and ways of existence.

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Why Neora Takes Years to Perfect Each Skin Care Product

Looking for skin care that does more than just surface-level work? Neora was built on the belief that effective skin care shouldn't compromise skin health and that taking time with product development leads to real results.

"We knew that really good, well-performing natural products can yield the same results," says Amber Olson Rourke, Neora’s co-founder and president. "It just takes time." This insight came from watching clients chase quick fixes that often led to irritation and sensitivity.

The company's mindful, science-based to skincare formulations stands out in an industry known for rushing products to market. "We take our time with products, we take our time with the development, and that's why we don't have 50 products in our 12 years," Olson Rourke explains. Each product undergoes extensive testing before reaching customers.

Take its signature ingredient SIG-1273, named for the 1,273 iterations required to perfect its formula. This level of dedication to getting it right rather than getting it out quickly characterizes Neora's entire product development process.

Neora’s collagen sourcing choice also reflects this commitment to quality. While many companies opt for bovine collagen due to its lower costs, Neora chose marine collagen. "Marine collagen is way more expensive, harder to get. It's got a lot more guidelines because you also have to consider the welfare of marine life," says Olson Rourke.

For those new to Neora, the brand suggests starting with core products and building from there. Its products focus on multibenefit formulations that address multiple skin concerns simultaneously.

Neora’s night cream exemplifies its innovative approach. "It protects against the folds in your bed," Olson Rourke explains, describing its unique texture designed for overnight skin repair and protection. This attention to how products perform in real life conditions sets Neora apart.

Education plays a crucial role in the brand’s approach. Rather than relying on marketing hype, Neora provides detailed information about ingredients and their benefits. "We are very transparent in our business practices and how we formulate our products," Olson Rourke states.

The development process starts with understanding specific customer needs. Unlike larger beauty conglomerates tied to single labs, Neora sources specialized labs based on each product's requirements. This flexibility allows the brand to create formulas that best serve its customers.

The company pays special attention to ingredient sourcing, particularly for its plant-based components. "It all has to do with how they're grown. The terrain and conditions, the environment — everything matters with the ingredients because we are more naturally based," Olson Rourke shares.

Neora Founder: ‘Give Us 90 Days’ To Transform Your Skin

Results from Neora products build over time, reflecting the brand’s philosophy that good skin care supports natural processes rather than forcing quick changes. "Give us at least 90 days," Olson Rourke advises. "You'll start to feel the moisturization and hydration right away, but as far as the transformation of your skin, that's 90 days—wirth results that continue to build."

This patient approach extends to the brand’s preservative choices. Instead of relying on artificial preservatives, it invests in innovative packaging solutions. Its vitamin C products come in special dual-chamber packaging that prevents oxidation, ensuring effectiveness without compromising on clean ingredients.

The future of skin care lies in this balance of nature and science, where products work with skin's natural functions rather than against them. Through careful ingredient selection and thorough testing, Neora shows that achieving fresh, healthy skin doesn't require harsh treatments or endless product collections.

"Making the best products, supporting them, and being able to look at each other and say, ‘We believe in this,’" Olson Rourke says. This commitment to quality over quantity continues guiding Neora as it helps customers achieve their best skin through clean, effective products that deliver real results.

Seasonal changes particularly highlight the effectiveness of Neora's approach. "Your skin is good at its job," Olson Rourke notes, "so it's our job to not damage it." This philosophy guides its product testing across different environmental conditions and skin concerns.

The testing process goes beyond standard industry practices. While many companies rely solely on lab results, Neora conducts extensive real-world testing. The brand's commitment to thorough testing extends to its international markets, where different climates and regulations require additional considerations. 

For those wondering why Neora's product line remains selective compared to other brands, the answer lies in its development philosophy. "We don't put fillers in our products," Olson Rourke states. “If it's concentrated, a really high efficacy, the amount needed is less than what we may be used to. And that’s a good thing."

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Beauty Brand Neora Wants To Bring Out Your Inner Glow-Getter

It’s time to glow up — without the exhausting, multistep skin care routine. Neora takes a simpler approach to radiant skin: The brand focuses on clean, effective formulas that work with your skin's natural processes rather than against them.

Neora's approach particularly shines in its multibenefit formulations. Instead of requiring numerous products for different concerns, the brand’s formulas address multiple skin needs simultaneously. 

"We knew that really good, well-performing natural products can yield the same results," says Amber Olson Rourke, Neora co-founder and president. This philosophy emerged from her experience running a med spa, where she saw clients struggling with harsh treatments in their quest for perfect skin.

"We take our time with products, we take our time with the development, and that's why we don't have 50 products in our 12 years [of operation]," explains Olson Rourke.

Consider Neora’s signature ingredient SIG-1273, named for the 1,273 iterations required to perfect its formula.

Neora’s commitment to clean beauty is more than skin deep. When selecting ingredients, the brand often chooses more expensive options that align with its standards. For example, it uses marine collagen instead of the commonly used bovine version, despite higher costs and sourcing challenges. "Marine collagen is way more expensive, harder to get. It's got a lot more guidelines because you also have to consider the welfare of marine life," Olson Rourke confides. 

Neora emphasizes education, helping customers understand how products work with their skin. "We are very transparent in our business practices and how we formulate our products," says Olson Rourke.

For the Neora Glow, Go Slow

Neora's dedication to clean, effective skin care reflects a broader vision of beauty that celebrates individual radiance. By focusing on ingredients that support skin health rather than quick fixes, Neora helps customers achieve lasting results.

Its products work to enhance natural beauty while protecting skin from environmental stressors. This balanced approach helps maintain healthy, glowing skin throughout seasonal changes and life transitions.

As Olson Rourke notes, "We want to make the best products, support them, and be able to look at each other and go, ‘Yeah, we believe in this.’" Underneath it all, Neora wants fans of the brand to understand that achieving your glow doesn't require compromising on clean, healthy skin care.

"People's expectations need to mirror what they want to put in their bodies," Olson Rourke observes. "With natural ingredients, it's a much healthier, long term approach, but it's definitely not going to be the quick fix."

The brand's education efforts extend beyond product use to understanding skin biology. "The aging process is a loss of collagen, and people are now understanding, whereas they didn't before, and asking, 'How can I protect my collagen?'" Olson Rourke explains. Instead of following the "Sephora sample" mindset of constantly trying new products, Neora encourages consistency with its proven formulations. "With the culture that has been built through these little two-week trials, people say, 'I don't see anything,'" Olson Rourke notes. "We've gotten away from understanding that it takes time. Be patient and consistent, and you will see the results."

The brand's perspective on beauty extends beyond skin deep. "When you look in the mirror and feel confident about your skin, it transforms how you approach your day," Olson Rourke shares.

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Breaking the Beauty Mold: Neora's Stance Against Harmful Ingredients

META: Neora president Amber Olson Rourke sketches out the company’s tenets of transparency, thoughtful process, and natural ingredient selection.

Walk into any beauty retailer and you'll find shelves lined with products promising miraculous results. Yet many of these formulas rely on questionable ingredients to deliver quick fixes at the expense of long-term skin health. Neora takes a different path, placing ingredient safety at the forefront of its product development process.

"We knew that really good, well-performing natural products can yield the same results," says Amber Olson Rourke, Neora co-founder and president. This insight emerged from her experience running a med spa, where she witnessed firsthand how harsh treatments affected her clients. Many would achieve immediate results, but dealt with irritation, sensitivity, and other side effects.

The beauty industry's reliance on aggressive ingredients especially worries Olson Rourke when it comes to younger consumers. "What's particularly concerning is seeing very young people using products with retinols and things that thin out the skin. These can make them susceptible to damage and even affect their hormone function."

Neora’s Rigorous Standards

Instead of following industry norms, Neora developed its own rigorous standards for ingredient selection. "We pride ourselves on having a never-use list that far exceeds those of many big-name cosmetic brands," Olson Rourke explains. This commitment often means choosing more expensive ingredients to ensure safety and efficacy.

Take Neora’s approach to collagen, for example. While many companies opt for bovine collagen due to its lower cost and easy availability, Neora chose marine collagen despite additional challenges. "Marine collagen is way more expensive, harder to get. It's got a lot more guidelines because you also have to consider the welfare of marine life," says Olson Rourke.

This dedication to quality extends throughout the product development process. The brand’s signature ingredient, SIG-1273, required 1,273 iterations to perfect — a level of persistence uncommon in an industry that often rushes to market. "We take our time with products," notes Olson Rourke. "That's why we don't have 50 products in our 12 years."

The company's stance against harmful ingredients doesn't mean compromising on results. Each product undergoes thorough testing and third-party clinical trials to ensure safety and effectiveness. This methodical approach proves that clean beauty can deliver powerful results without relying on questionable ingredients.

Amber Olson Rourke: ‘We Are Very Transparent’

Transparency plays a crucial role in Neora's philosophy. "We are very transparent in our business practices and how we formulate our products," Olson Rourke states. This openness helps customers understand exactly what they're putting on their skin and why certain ingredients were chosen or avoided.

Education also remains central to the company’s mission. While many beauty enterprises rely on marketing hype and trendy ingredients, Neora focuses on helping customers understand the science behind its products. This includes explaining why certain common ingredients might do more harm than good.

Strict Standards

Even as clean beauty gains popularity, Neora maintains its strict standards rather than following trends. It continues developing products that support the skin's natural functions instead of disrupting them with harsh chemicals. This patient approach may require more time and resources, but the results speak for themselves — effective skin care that promotes long-term skin health.

This principled stance against harmful ingredients sets Neora apart in an industry often driven by quick fixes and temporary results. Through careful ingredient selection, thorough testing, and transparent communication, the brand is proving that clean beauty can be both safe and effective — breaking the traditional beauty mold one product at a time.

Beyond its stance on ingredients, Neora's approach to product development sets new standards in the beauty industry. The company starts by looking at specific customer concerns rather than chasing trends. "We understand the problem our customer is facing. We identify the gap, market trend, and then we find the best labs," Olson Rourke explains.

Unlike larger beauty conglomerates that often rely on a single lab for all their formulations, Neora sources specialized labs based on each product's unique requirements. "A lot of times with these bigger conglomerates, you are beholden to the lab and maybe they're good at this, but not great at that. We are able to source the lab that works best for the product we are going for," says Olson Rourke.

This flexibility extends to ingredient sourcing. Since Neora focuses on natural, plant-based ingredients, it pays careful attention to growing conditions and environmental factors. "It all has to do with how they're grown there. The terrain and conditions, the environment — everything matters with the ingredients because we are more naturally based," Olson Rourke notes.

The company's commitment to clean ingredients also influences its preservation methods. Many conventional beauty products rely on artificial preservatives to extend shelf life. Neora instead focuses on innovative packaging and formulation techniques to maintain product freshness naturally. The brand’s vitamin C products, for example, come in special packaging that prevents oxidation, ensuring effectiveness without artificial stabilizers.

"When you're good on the inside and the outside, you feel good," Olson Rourke shares, emphasizing Neora's holistic approach to beauty. This philosophy guides not just its choice of ingredients, but its entire approach to skin care, focusing on products that support overall skin health rather than temporary fixes.

In an industry where new products launch daily and trends change rapidly, Neora's unwavering commitment to clean, safe ingredients stands out. The brand proves that effective skin care doesn't require compromising on ingredient safety — it just requires more patience, dedication, and attention to detail in the development process.

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Sip on This: Neora’s Plant-Protein Powder Helps You Power Through 

META: Neora co-founder Amber Olson Rourke says, “We chose plant proteins not just because they're trendy, but because they're simply better for you."

So, how are those New Year’s resolutions working out for you? According to a Forbes health survey, if you keep your resolution for four months, you’re firmly in the average. Sticking it for more than a year? You’re among the 6% of adult unicorns who manage to do so.

Maintaining those good intentions — especially when it comes to wellness — can be a real challenge. Neora addresses this struggle with its NeoraFit Plant-Based Protein Powder, which is designed to provide sustained energy without compromising on clean ingredients.

"We're committed to using only plant-based proteins," says Amber Olson Rourke, Neora co-founder. Like Neora’s skin care line, this latest addition reflects the company’s dedication to effective, natural formulations. "When developing our protein powder, we chose plant proteins because they're simply better for you."

Powering Through Your Day in a Plant-Based Way With NeoraThe NeoraFit protein powder is a powerful sip, offering up 20 grams of plant protein and only 4 grams of carbs and 120 calories per serving. And it’s also vegan, contains none of the common allergens — it’s gluten-, dairy-, and soy-free — is non-GMO and has no artificial flavors or sweeteners.

And more about that protein: The drink derives its proteins from peas and organic brown rice, chia seeds, and pumpkin. 

Many protein powders on the market use bovine-based proteins primarily because they're cheaper to source, explains Olson Rourke. "It's essentially just the most readily available and the grading process is pretty low-quality," Olson Rourke explains. Neora's choice to use plant proteins aligns with its broader commitment to clean, consciously sourced ingredients.

Neora understands real-life wellness challenges. Having an easy, nutritious option helps maintain energy levels without resorting to quick fixes that lead to crashes later.

Amber Olson Rourke: ‘Perfecting Our Formulations’

Quality stands central to Neora's development process. "We take years to develop products," says Olson Rourke. While some might view this as overly cautious, this measured approach ensures every product meets its rigorous standards before reaching customers. "While other companies might rush products to market, we believe in thorough testing and perfecting our formulations."

The development process involved numerous iterations to achieve the right balance of nutrition and taste. Many plant-based proteins struggle with texture or flavor issues, but Neora refused to compromise on either front. The result is a protein powder that provides excellent nutritional value while also delivering on taste and texture.

For those tracking their nutrition, the protein powder offers a clean way to meet daily protein requirements without unnecessary additives. This becomes especially valuable during the cold winter months when maintaining healthy habits can prove challenging. Whether mixed into a morning smoothie or added to afternoon snacks, it provides a convenient source of plant-based protein.

The protein powder joins Neora's wellness line, expanding its offerings beyond skin care while maintaining its core philosophy of clean, effective ingredients. Each product undergoes extensive testing to ensure it delivers real results without compromising on ingredient quality. This attention to detail has earned Neora a reputation for products that consistently meet high standards.

Neora Protein Powder Blends Easily and Tastes Great

For those new to plant protein or skeptical about the flavor, Olson Rourke notes that modern formulations have come a long way. "Our focus was creating something that people would actually enjoy drinking while getting the nutrition they need." The result is a protein powder that blends easily and tastes great, making it a practical addition to daily routines.

This new product demonstrates Neora's commitment to supporting overall wellness through clean, plant-based nutrition. The protein powder's versatility makes it an ideal addition to various dietary approaches. Whether you're fully plant-based or simply looking to incorporate more plant proteins into your diet, it provides a convenient option that doesn't sacrifice quality or taste. If those New Year's resolutions and good intentions seem unsustainable, having reliable, clean nutrition options becomes increasingly valuable.

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Neora Has the Teen Skin Care Pro Tips You Need IRL

META: Neora’s Amber Olson Rourke gets it — she’s got teen girls who have all the issues associated with adolescent skin care.

Between BeautyTok tutorials and endless product recommendations from influencers, dealing with the world of skin care as a teen can feel overwhelming. While social media might suggest you need a 12-step routine featuring the latest viral products, Neora co-founder Amber Olson Rourke sees firsthand how this approach can backfire for young skin.

"Before I worked for Neora, I mean, I have teenage girls and they used all the things," Olson Rourke shares. "What they wanted for Christmas is Drunk Elephant." While trendy brands like Drunk Elephant might seem appealing, many products marketed to teens contain ingredients better suited for mature skin — or worse, ingredients that could disrupt natural skin processes during crucial developmental years.

The reality? Teen skin has unique needs that differ significantly from adult skin. "My kids were in Texas and one of my daughters plays on the tennis team and it was February, which in Texas can be 90 degrees or it could be 20. So it was sunny. And then the next day, she had just blisters all over her face," Olson Rourke recalls. The culprit wasn't just sun exposure — it was the interaction between harsh skin care ingredients and environmental factors.

Amber Olson Rourke: ‘What They Don’t Tell You’

Many popular products contain ingredients that just aren’t suitable for youthful skin. "What they don't tell you is in those formulas, they have retinols and things that thin out the skin, make them susceptible. And they do that through our skin to older, basically 50," Olson Rourke explains. "I can use those on my face to achieve something else because my skin, I'm not still growing."

Building a healthy skin care foundation starts with understanding what teen skin actually needs. Often, it's much simpler than trending routines suggest. Protection and gentle support should be the primary focus, not aggressive treatments or antiaging ingredients that can interfere with natural processes.

"It interrupts their adrenal functions," Olson Rourke warns about certain ingredients commonly found in teen-targeted products. "It takes away their natural moisture." Instead of stripping away skin's natural protective barriers, teens should focus on supporting their skin's inherent health.

Neora’s Double-Cleanse Approach

When it comes to cleansing, gentle is key. Harsh cleansers that leave skin feeling squeaky clean are actually disrupting its natural balance. Look for products that clean effectively without stripping moisture. For example, Neora’s Double-Cleansing Face Wash removes oil-based impurities and makeup when applied to dry skin. Then, with the addition of water, it creates a lather for deep cleaning. Sun protection becomes especially crucial during teen years, when outdoor activities and sports often mean extended sun exposure. "It's very scary," Olson Rourke notes about the combination of sun-sensitizing ingredients and outdoor activities. Proper SPF should be a nonnegotiable part of any teen skin care routine.

Social media can make it tempting to try every new product that promises perfection overnight. However, Amber Olson Rourke emphasizes the importance of understanding what you're putting on your skin. "We don't put perfumes in our products," she notes, highlighting how even common ingredients like artificial fragrances can cause issues for young skin.

Creating a sustainable skin care routine means focusing on long-term skin health rather than quick fixes. Signs of a working routine include balanced moisture levels, resilient skin, and fewer reactions to environmental stressors. If skin becomes increasingly sensitive or reactive, it's often a sign that products are too aggressive.

"There won't be the irritation of retinols. There won't be the sunburn going out for a minute because what you're doing is you are speeding up the sun damage that you're trying to actually prevent," Olson Rourke explains about the importance of gentle, appropriate formulations.

No Magical Solutions

The journey to healthy skin isn't about finding a magical combination of products or following every trending routine. It's about understanding your skin's natural processes and supporting them appropriately. When skin concerns arise, resist the urge to attack them with harsh treatments. Instead, focus on strengthening your skin's natural ability to maintain balance.

The choices made during teenage years can impact skin health well into adulthood. While it might be tempting to follow aggressive skin care trends or borrow products from parents' routines, supporting young skin's natural processes yields better long-term results. Olson Rourke emphasizes that everyone can aspire to better skin. “We don't show something that isn't real or attainable," she says.

Healthy skin doesn't require a medicine cabinet full of products or a complicated routine. By understanding the unique needs of young skin and choosing gentle, appropriate products, teens can build a foundation for lifelong skin health. In the age of instant gratification and viral beauty trends, sometimes the most revolutionary approach is simply working with your skin rather than against it — protecting and supporting its natural processes rather than trying to transform them overnight.

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Want To Up Your Clean Beauty Game? Neora Says Steer Clear of These Harmful Ingredients

META: Neora offers results with clean, effective skin care products, says Amber Olson Rourke, co-founder and president.

Have you ever stood in the beauty aisle, reading skin care labels and wishing you had a chemistry degree so you’d understand those long lists of ingredients that look more suited to a lab manual than your bathroom cabinet? What goes into our skin care matters — these ingredients interact with our largest organ and can affect our overall health and wellness. But that doesn’t mean you should have to be Madame Marie Curie to read a label.

"We knew that really good, well-performing natural products can yield the same results," says Amber Olson Rourke, Neora co-founder. "It just takes time." This insight came from her experience running a med spa, where she saw firsthand how harsh treatments affected clients, many of whom sought quick fixes but dealt with irritation, sensitivity, and other side effects from aggressive ingredients.

The shift toward clean beauty reflects growing consumer awareness about ingredient safety. But with terms like "natural," "clean," and "nontoxic" appearing on countless products, understanding what these claims really mean becomes crucial for making informed choices.

Neora’s ‘Never-Use List’

Neora's approach to clean beauty goes beyond basic industry standards. "We pride ourselves on having a never-use list that far exceeds those of many big-name cosmetic brands," Olson Rourke explains. This commitment shows in their careful ingredient selection process, which begins with understanding how they interact with the skin's natural functions.

The skin's barrier plays a vital role in protecting our bodies from environmental stressors while maintaining proper hydration. Many common skin care ingredients can disrupt this delicate balance. Harsh surfactants strip natural oils, while certain preservatives might trigger sensitivities or allergic reactions. Some ingredients even make skin more vulnerable to sun damage or premature aging.

Consider Neora's choice of marine collagen over the more commonly used bovine version. "Marine collagen is way more expensive, harder to get. It's got a lot more guidelines because you also have to consider the welfare of marine life," says Olson Rourke. While this decision impacts costs, it aligns with Neora's focus on both quality and sustainability. Marine collagen also offers superior bioavailability, meaning the skin can better utilize its benefits.

Amber Olson Rourke: ‘We Take Our Time’

Clean beauty doesn't mean compromising on effectiveness. Take SIG-1273, one of Neora's signature ingredients. Named for the 1,273 iterations required to perfect its formula, it demonstrates how natural skin care can deliver results through proper research and development. This level of dedication to formulation shows that creating effective, clean products requires patience and scientific rigor.

"We take our time with products, we take our time with the development, and that's why we don't have 50 products in our 12 years," notes Olson Rourke. This measured approach allows Neora to create formulas that work without relying on questionable ingredients. Rather than rushing to market with trendy components or quick fixes, they focus on proven solutions that support skin health.

The company's commitment extends to its testing processes. Each product undergoes thorough evaluation and third-party clinical trials to ensure safety and efficacy. "We are very transparent in our business practices and how we formulate our products," Olson Rourke states. This transparency extends to being upfront about what ingredients they choose not to use.

Seasonal Differences

Understanding your products becomes especially important during seasonal changes. Winter's harsh conditions can make skin more sensitive and reactive, while summer's increased sun exposure requires extra attention to protective ingredients. Clean formulations help maintain skin health year-round without introducing potentially harmful substances.

For those new to clean beauty, starting small makes the transition manageable. Begin by examining the products you use daily, like cleansers and moisturizers. Look for brands that clearly list their ingredients and explain their formulation choices. Consider how products make your skin feel beyond immediate results — proper skin health shows in long-term benefits, not just quick fixes.

By prioritizing plant-based ingredients and avoiding harsh chemicals, Neora shows that skin care can be clean and effective. Although its development process might take more time and resources, the results speak for themselves — healthy, glowing skin without the worry of harmful ingredients.

Companies like Neora lead the way by maintaining high standards for their formulations while educating customers about the importance of ingredient choices. This combination of quality products and consumer education helps everyone make better decisions about their skin care routines.

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Neora CEO Shares Wintertime Tips For Glowy Skin

META: Neora’s Amber Olson Rourke says, “In winter, it's all about being gentle on our skin.”

Baby, it’s cold outside. As the winter solstice signals change and temperatures drop, maintaining healthy, glowing skin requires enhanced attention and care. Neora president and co-founder Amber Olson Rourke recently shared expert insights on protecting and nourishing skin during the chillier months, emphasizing the importance of adapting skin care routines to meet changing environmental demands.

"In winter, it's all about being gentle on our skin," says Olson Rourke, highlighting the importance of a delicate plan during colder times. This philosophy guides Neora's winter skin care recommendations, focusing on protection and hydration rather than aggressive treatments.

Key Winter Skin Care Strategies

While exfoliation remains important for healthy skin, Olson Rourke advises, "You'll want to use something that has a little bit of exfoliation but is also gentle." Her recommendation includes using silicone scrubbers for removing dirt, oil, and makeup, and limiting exfoliation to once or twice weekly to maintain the skin's natural protective barrier.

"Our skin is good at its job, so it's our job to not damage it," Olson Rourke emphasizes. She warns against overexfoliation and harsh acids that can disrupt the skin's microbiome and lead to drying — concerns that become particularly relevant during winter.

For winter skin care success, Amber Olson Rourke recommends choosing moisturizers with multiple hydrating ingredients designed to penetrate several layers of skin. This multilayered method ensures comprehensive hydration when the skin needs it most.

The transition to colder weather requires special attention to skin care. As Olson Rourke notes, this season presents an ideal opportunity to replenish and revitalize skin from summer sun damage while preparing for winter's challenges. Extra hydration and gentler exfoliation become crucial for preventing dry, flaky skin and protecting against environmental stressors.

Neora’s Essential Winter Skin Guidelines

What’s the fundamental rule for winter skin care success? According to Olson Rourke, it's about letting skin do its job while supporting it with clean products that deliver gentle yet effective results. This balanced approach helps maintain healthy, hydrated, glowing skin throughout the seasonal changes.

For those looking to maintain radiant skin during colder months, Neora emphasizes working with the skin's natural functions rather than against them. 

Here are the five top tips:

Choose gentle cleansers without harsh surfactants or artificial fragrances.

Limit exfoliation to once or twice weekly.

Focus on multilayer hydration.

Avoid products with harsh acids.

Protect the skin's natural barrier.

The Genesis of Neora

The story of Neora's thoughtful take on skin care began in a med spa, where Amber Olson Rourke witnessed firsthand how harsh treatments affected her clients. As she explains, "They wanted the results, they'd have these harsh effects, side effects. And the problem is they knew that really good, well-performing natural products can yield the same results. It just takes time."

This observation, combined with the forward-thinking approach to health and wellness of her father, founder and CEO Jeff Olson, sparked what would become Neora's founding philosophy. The company started with a plan sketched on the back of a napkin, born from the belief that effective skin care shouldn't come at the cost of skin health.

Neora's development process exemplifies this commitment to gentle effectiveness. "We take our time with products, we take our time with the development, and that's why we don't have 50 products in our 12 years," Olson Rourke shares. This measured concept allows Neora to create products that stand the test of time while delivering real results.

A prime example of this dedication is their signature ingredient SIG-1273, named for the number of iterations it took to perfect the formula. This level of persistence in getting it right, rather than rushing to market, demonstrates Neora's unwavering commitment to creating products that truly work.

The company's focus on natural ingredients extends beyond basic formulation. For instance, Neora opts for marine collagen over bovine collagen despite it being "more expensive, harder to get" because it adheres to stricter guidelines and considers marine welfare. This commitment to quality and sustainability might impact short-term profits, but it aligns with Neora's vision of skin care that's good for both people and the planet in the long run.

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Neora Explains Its One-Cream-Fits-All Philosophy

Less is more, says skin care and wellness brand Neora. In an industry that thrives on convincing consumers they need dozens and dozens of products for every skin concern and age group, Neora aims to buck the trend with well-formulated Age IQ Day and Night Creams for all. Neora says Night Cream, which came first, was born out of years of research and development. According to Amber Olson Rourke, president and CEO of Neora, "A lot of times with these bigger conglomerates, you are beholden to the lab and maybe they're good at this, but not great at that. We are able to source the lab that works best for the product we are going for."

Breaking the Multiproduct Myth

"We understand the problem our customer is facing," explains Olson Rourke. "We know that skin changes through our 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s, 60s and beyond. But the thing is, if you have and use a few really great products, you’ll be in protection mode, through the years.”

At the heart of Neora's less is more philosophy lies a deep understanding of skin biology. "In your 20s you have more collagen. That's just what the aging process is: losing your collagen," Olson Rourke explains. "So what you need to do starting in your 20s and on is to protect that collagen. It's naturally something that does diminish, but you can take those steps to protect it and hold onto it."

Some age groups do a better job than others. "In your 20s, or even your younger years, you may have had sun damage from playing outside without SPF, but just because it hasn't made its appearance in your 20s yet, doesn’t mean it’s not there," she notes.

Development Through Dedication

Creating truly universal formulas for both daytime and nighttime application for men and women in their 20s to well into their 70s and beyond wasn't a quick process. "We take our time with each of our products, we do the testing, we do the development. We make certain they make sense with all our products to be used to boost the results of each," shares Olson Rourke. "That's why in our 12 years, we don't have 50 products." 

Neora, says Olson Rourke, keeps a trained eye on the quality of its clean ingredients, which it obtains from different reaches of the globe. "We source the cleanest ingredients. Sometimes ingredients in different countries vary from how they're grown there," Olson Rourke notes. "Since we are naturally based, the terrain and the conditions, the environment — everything matters with the ingredients."

The Economics of Simplicity

Formulating effective day and night creams that address all signs of aging instead of multiple products isn't just simpler — it’s environmentally friendly. Neora’s concentrated formulations mean less packaging and longer-lasting products. And, it's more economical. "If it's concentrated, if it's good, if it's really high efficacy, you need very little," Olson Rourke explains. "I use just two to four pumps of Day Cream in the morning as well as two to four pumps of Night Cream—it’s the same with all of our products. You just don't need a ton because Neora products are so highly concentrated." For Neora newcomers, Olson Rourke says the brand is mindful to educate its customers about its lineup. 

"We are very thorough in education. "We want to explain, ‘This is how to use our products in a routine. None of our products or step-by-steps are inaccessible.”

"We know that when you look good, you feel good. When you feel good inside, you glow outside. It truly is holistic, healthy," says Olson Rourke`. "It is almost literally written all over your face."

As consumers become increasingly conscious of their skin care routines' effectiveness, Neora's one-cream philosophy is a refreshing answer. 

"We're not frills, we're just authentic, we're truthful," Olson Rourke emphasizes.