Alima Pure grows in U.S., overseas

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Photo courtesy Alima Pure

Kate O'Brien, founder and CEO of Alima Pure, set out to form a company that was "militaristically sustainable."  Click on the image for a look at Alima products. 

“People are becoming more environmentally aware, and also environmentally sensitive,” said O’Brien, “which is just a wonderful thing.”

Other natural cosmetics brands include Aubrey Organics, Aveeno, Burt’s Bees, Jane Iredale, Josie Maran, Origins, PlantLove, and tarte cosmetics.

O’Brien said Alima Pure prides itself in being more colorful than other natural cosmetics and more versatile than traditional cosmetics.

When Alima Pure was founded, “Most of the natural lines at that point were available in brown and brown, and I just thought we could do better,” said O’Brien.

Alima Pure fans can expect to see lots of new textures in the line’s fall collection, which O’Brien said would be “well-suited for rainy Portland,” as well as a few by-request eye products and some opulent holiday looks.

Alima Pure signed up to become a Certified B Corporation in 2009, joining a growing list of Oregon and national companies that certify through the nonprofit B Labs to demonstrate their commitment to social and environmental performance standards, legal accountability and to call for public policies that support sustainable business.

As Alima Pure’s makeup offerings expand, their mission will remain the same as it has always been.

“We want to make pure products for discerning customers and women with all skin colors and needs, and remain true to our social and environmental values,” said O’Brien.

“And so far, so good.”