In recent years, the appreciation for clean beauty has surged, with consumers increasingly seeking products that are not only effective but also environmentally conscious and free from harmful chemicals. Nestled in the heart of Phoenix, Citrine Natural Beauty Bar embodies this movement, offering a carefully curated selection of clean beauty brands that prioritize skin health and sustainability. With a focus on transparency and ethical sourcing, Citrine empowers customers to make informed choices while exploring innovative skincare, makeup, and wellness products that enhance their natural beauty without compromising their values.
Beauty brand founder, Melissa Lenberg discovered her passion for skin care at a young age, and captivated on that desire to bring awareness to those around her through her personal journey and mindful brainstorming which brought to life the vision of what Citrine Beauty is today.
A casual stroll into the Biltmore Shopping Center in the heart of Phoenix, Arizona, her crispy white store-front, with floor to ceiling glass windows and entry door, shines the desert sun into Citrine. Neatly organized by beauty brand, and wellness categories, Melissa put intentional thought into the design and layout of her products, giving the customer a seamless experience when discovering each brand.
Meeting Melissa, you know first hand she is a beauty expert. Her complexion is a radiant canvas, with flawless skin that seemed to glow from within. Every feature was enhanced by the smooth, even tone, free from blemishes or imperfections, giving her an ethereal quality that draws admiration from all who crossed her path. With a natural luminosity and a healthy, youthful vibrance, she exuded confidence, embodying the essence of beauty that seemed effortless and truly remarkable – skin that anyone would be lucky to have.
But great complexion takes effort. It is not done overnight, and the process must be a commitment that one is willing to pledge. Melissa shares with us about her journey through clean beauty and its benefits, while sharing how Citrine came to life and how the brand plans to grow in the future.
Beyond the Glow
S: Melissa, as a young girl we all start admiring our skin and begin to experiment with facial scrubs and eyeshadow pallets. But can you share with us at what age did you start using skin care and make up?
M: My first memory is actually very young, I would say 10 or 11. My mom was also very into skincare and because I have more sensitive skin she used to have skincare compounded for me. I would say by 12 I was wearing some light blush and brown mascara but just on the very tips of my lashes.
S: I began to noticed blemishes into my teenage years after using products that probably weren’t the best options and I began to have break outs that I couldn’t always resolve. Have you personally ever suffered from any skin conditions growing up?
M: I had blemish prone more hormonal acne in my teenage years. I had PCOS and so I struggled. My skin cleared finally and I have been able to keep it clear with lifestyle. As I’ve gotten older I have really come to understand that sleep, limiting sugar and managing stress work wonders as well as a curated skin-care routine.
S: Having experienced blemish prone skin at a young age, was there anything that prompted your desire to explore cleaner beauty products?
M: I really feel like it was my calling. I’ve always been interested in beauty. I remember giving friends makeovers and even haircuts (sorry parents) as early as like 8 years old. My mom also played a role as she taught me the that good ingredients and products mattered.
S: You landed spot on a niche business model. Can you describe the “AH-HA” moment that led you to wanting to build your brand?
M: After being in the beauty industry for years I discovered what was in most beauty products was not ideal for my overall health. I had PCOS and rheumatoid arthritis and so I had gotten very conscious of what I put in and on my body. During a trip to Sedona I was sitting and got the whole download of Citrine. It was very meant to be!
S: Nothing like a peaceful environment like Sedona to spark the creative juices and brainstorming sessions! What was your initial business plan strategy for opening Citrine?
M: I knew I wanted to start small and grow. I found out the Biltmore was starting something called the Union. This was a community project of smaller spaces for local tenants. I knew I needed in.
S:You have a specific selection of brands and product lines sold in-store and online. How do you curate your products you sell? And is there a certain criteria a product has to meet?
M: Yes, we curate with the highest standards in the industry. Not only does it need to be clean, the product needs to be efficacious and have beautiful packaging. You can find all our curation standards here.
S:Can you name a few of your favorite brands you sell?
M: It’s so hard just to choose a few. In heavy rotation right now is Agent Nateur, Ayuna and RMS Beauty.
S: We know there are so many incredible options, but can you share with us a few of your MUST-HAVE products for the season ahead?
M: Always with the changing of seasons, I make sure that I up my exfoliation and hydration game. My must haves are the Ayuna Essence as a mask/exfoliant, the Agent Natueur Holi Trinity and Ayuna Cream 3.
S: Can you share with us one piece of advice when it comes to using clean products…
M: It doesn’t need to be overly complicated. I tell people to switch out one product at a time as they’re running out. Once you make a swap, the great thing is is you know what you’ll love and it’ll be easy to repurchase time after time.
S: We understand the importance of having a well designed skin care regiment. Can you tell us what your skincare/beauty routine in the morning?
M: I mask pretty much every morning I will rotate between a more exfoliating and a hydrating mask. I do this while I meditate or make a cup of tea. I like to think of this is habit stacking. As a mother this is key for me.
S: You are an advocate for clean beauty products and choosing your brands wisely for our bodies overall health and wellness. Can you briefly describe the key benefits to using sustainable and clean beauty products?
M: Our skin loves the ingredients that mother nature provides, and the great news is is there’s so much with green technology out there. There has been so many advancements in the space. I look at it this way, think of the natural skin care as a live skin food other than something that’s sterile and made in a lab.
S: Many women do not pay attention to the ingredient’s that are on a product label. Share with us the negative side effects for not using beauty products that meet clean beauty standards…
M: Some of the main concerns of not using clean products is how they can disrupt the endocrine system aka your hormones. Often times ingredients can also be carcinogenic.
S: Switching to clean beauty products is like giving your skin a refreshing, toxin-free treat! Packed with natural ingredients, these products work with your skin to nourish, hydrate, and protect without any harsh chemicals. Think of it as a beauty routine that’s as kind to your skin as it is to the planet. By ditching synthetic fragrances, parabens, and sulfates, clean beauty helps reduce irritation and breakouts, leaving you with a glowing, healthy complexion. Plus, your skin will thank you for all the pure goodness—no more mystery ingredients, just beauty that’s as clean as it is radiant!
S: You are so well established having a beautiful store, as well as a heavy online presence and social media following. Can you share with us your long term goal for Citrine and what is coming next?
M: My long-term goal with Citrine is to continue to grow the brand both locally and online. Right before I had my daughter I was in the process of formulating my own skincare brand and I’m excited to finally be jumping back into getting into that. I am launching my own personal blog for all things clean living, business and motherhood.
S: As a mother myself and business owner, I believe we teach our children so much with our drive and dedication to being an entrepreneur. Being a mom to your daughter Willow, can you share with us how your business mission and being a female business owner will positively impact her, and one wish for her as she grows?
M: I truly want to make the word a better place for her. I love for her to see her mother take care of herself all while being a powerful business owner. Proving through mindset and discipline you can make your dreams come true.
S:We could play in your store for hours testing every beauty product there that is on display. But do you have any other hobbies or passions besides your business?
M: Motherhood is my number one. My family and health always come first. I’m passionate about clean and mindful living. I love Kundalini yoga and being in nature. I also love to create anything – businesses, a flower arrangement you name it.
Shop with Melissa at Citrine Beauty Online at https://citrinenaturalskin.com/ or in-store at
Citrine Natural Beauty Bar
2502 E Camelback Rd Suite 178, Phoenix, AZ 85016 at the Biltmore Shopping Center