Today we’d like to introduce you to Alexandria Mayhane Baskin.
Hi Alexandria, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Poppin Natural started from something very personal: my own search for better options for my skin. When I first started, I struggled to find natural beauty products that worked for me, especially products I felt comfortable using on my eczema-prone skin. There simply weren’t as many natural, handmade options available, and that sparked something in me. I began experimenting, creating, and learning how to formulate products that I could feel good about using myself.
I was also inspired by the people around me who encouraged my creativity and reminded me that I could turn something I loved into something bigger. Their influence, along with my own curiosity and determination, gave me the confidence to keep going even when I didn’t have everything figured out.
What started as a personal need eventually became Poppin Natural—a handmade beauty brand built around creativity, self-expression, and creating beauty experiences. Over the years, I’ve grown from making skincare products to offering pop-ups, private events, mobile beauty experiences, and curated collections that allow customers to become part of the creative process.
The journey hasn’t always been easy. I’ve had to learn the business while balancing work, school, and continuing to educate myself as a formulator and entrepreneur. But every chapter has shaped the brand into what it is today.
I’m especially proud that Poppin Natural has continued to evolve with me. It’s no longer just about making a product—it’s about creating an experience and building something that feels personal, intentional, and memorable. My story started with wanting something better for my own skin, but it has grown into a much bigger vision: creating beauty experiences that make people feel seen, inspired, and excited to express themselves.
And after all these years, I truly feel like I’m only beginning to see what Poppin Natural can become.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely has not been a smooth road. There have been many moments when I questioned whether I should keep going. When I first started Poppin Natural, I didn’t have a lot of resources. I had to figure things out as I went, often trying to build and maintain a business without the financial resources, connections, or support that many entrepreneurs have access to. I also had people who doubted me or questioned whether my business would really work.
One of the hardest moments came when I lost my mom. During that time, giving up felt easier than continuing. I was grieving, and the thought of walking away from my business crossed my mind. But I kept thinking about my mom and what she would have wanted for me. I knew she would never have wanted me to quit on something I had worked so hard to build.
That became a turning point for me. I realized that continuing Poppin Natural was about more than just running a business—it was about honoring the work, the dreams, and the person I was becoming through the journey.
There have been plenty of setbacks, negative voices, and moments when I had to build with what I had. But I kept showing up. I learned to trust myself, become resourceful, and let the results speak louder than the doubt.
Looking back, I’m grateful I didn’t give up. Every challenge has helped shape the woman and entrepreneur I am today, and every chapter has made Poppin Natural stronger.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Poppin Natural is a handmade beauty brand and creative beauty experience rooted in self-expression, connection, and making beauty fun. I specialize in creating handcrafted skincare and beauty products, as well as interactive experiences where customers get to become part of the process through my mobile beauty bar. From creating their own lip gloss and perfume to exploring curated beauty collections, I want people to feel like they’re stepping into an experience rather than simply purchasing a product.
I’m known for taking everyday beauty and turning it into something memorable. I love creating products and packaging that feel playful, nostalgic, feminine, and intentional, while still having an elevated feel. I’m always thinking about the little details—from the product names and packaging to the way someone receives their order or experiences my brand at an event.
What I’m most proud of is the fact that Poppin Natural has continued to evolve. I started because I wanted better natural beauty options for myself, and over time, it became a platform for me to express my creativity and connect with my community. I’ve built the brand from the ground up, often without the resources that larger businesses have, and I’m proud of every chapter that has brought me here.
What sets me apart is that I don’t see Poppin Natural as simply a skincare line. I see it as a world that I’m creating. Whether someone is shopping a product, attending one of my events, making their own beauty product at my mobile bar, or experiencing one of my curated collections, I want them to feel like they’ve entered something uniquely Poppin Natural.
I’m also not afraid to reinvent myself. As I’ve grown, the brand has grown with me, and I’m constantly finding new ways to make beauty feel personal, creative, and unexpected. My goal is to create products and experiences that people remember—not just because they were beautiful, but because of how they made them feel.
What do you like and dislike about the city?
Although I live in Corpus Christi, Austin is one of those cities I always enjoy visiting. What I love most is the energy of the city. There’s such a creative, welcoming atmosphere, and of course, I have to mention the food! Austin has so many amazing eateries, from hidden gems to unique local spots, and I’m always excited to discover somewhere new.
I also love the sunshine and the way Austin embraces being outdoors. There’s something about enjoying good food, beautiful weather, and the city’s creative energy all in the same day that makes it special.
If I had to name something I like least, it would probably be the traffic. As someone who enjoys exploring and trying new places, getting around Austin can definitely be an obstacle! But honestly, the food, sunshine, culture, and overall energy make it easy to overlook.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.poppinnatural.com
- Instagram: @poppinnatural
- Facebook: Poppin Natural Skincare
