Kristy Alexander, the founder of the all-natural skincare company Apple Rose Beauty, was 15 when she knew she wanted to open a cosmetics company. Still, it wasn’t until after a decade-long career in engineering and an 11-month volunteer trip around the world when she realized how she would do so.
During the 5th month of her trip, Kristy found herself in Thailand volunteering with an organization that rescued and rehabilitated women who had fallen victim to human trafficking.
“I realized that there was a gap in opportunities and options for women coming out of human trafficking. So I wanted to fill that gap,” Kristy says. “That dream of starting a cosmetics company that I had when I was 15 came back to me, but with a much bigger purpose.”
Named after 2 victims of human-trafficking who Kristy met in Thailand, Apple Rose Beauty’s mission is to employ human trafficking survivors and support organizations involved in their rescue and rehabilitation.
“Entrepreneurship is not for the faint of heart.”
“Coming from corporate America, I was always a high-achiever… I had to really get used to failing at things,” Kristy admits.
As an entrepreneur, you need to wear many hats, maybe even more than your closet has room to hold. But, starting your own business means you have to try and fail at a lot of things. “You learn that failure is actually a stepping stone,” Kristy explains. “I think failure teaches us more than success does.”
Before the pandemic hit in 2020, Apple Rose Beauty’s online sales only made up 30 percent of their revenue. “When the pandemic hit,” Kristy tells us, “we pretty much lost 60 percent of our business right away.”
Rather than give up, Kristy looked at this setback from the perspective of having more room for growth. By the end of 2020, Apple Rose Beauty tripled their online sales, even making their way to Macy’s online. While the company did not expand as much as it had in its previous years, the important thing was that it was still afloat.
“Where there is life, there is possibility.”
“In those points where I’m tempted to give up… I ask myself, am I breathing? If the answer is yes, then there is the possibility for better on the other side,” says Kristy.
In 2021, Kristy wants to get her products in front of as many people as possible. “Once people try the product, the rest takes care of itself,” she beams. Apple Rose Beauty products are light and clean, strong enough to tackle tough skin issues yet gentle enough for sensitive skin. Plus, they are all-natural, certified organic, and hypoallergenic.
Here are just a few that Kristy will be sharing in her Live Shopping event at Girls Nite Live:
Charcoal + Hibiscus Exfoliating MaskActivated charcoal has a unique ability to absorb bacteria and toxins. Its antibacterial properties can lift bacteria from pores, helping reduce acne and improve the complexion. Hibiscus, also known as nature’s botox, has natural acids that purify your skin, break down dead skin cells and “encourage an all-around fresher, younger, smoother looking complexion.”
Nourish Naturally Cleanser (Cayenne + Coconut)
While you can check out this product’s full ingredient list by clicking the product name above, a little about cayenne and coconut— cayenne is rich in vitamins and antioxidants, and is known to help cure acne and acne scars. Coconut has the ability to reduce inflammation and nourish your skin.Nourish Naturally Moisturizing Treatment (Turmeric + Aloe) Aloe is amazing for moisturizing, reducing acne, and fighting aging, while turmeric promotes healthful aging, reduces redness, clears clogged pores, and helps reduce oiliness. Read more about the endless benefits of turmeric on Apple Rose Beauty’s blog!
On April 21st, 2021, you can shop Apple Rose Beauty products live, with a specialty bundle just for the GNL audience. Sign up here.
“I like to say that we are more than just a skincare company,” Kristy says. “We challenge and inspire world changers, and we celebrate and encourage the beauty in ourselves and others that is more than skin deep.”
