Today we’d like to introduce you to Lina Leikam.
Hi Lina, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Originally I’m from Germany, lived 3 years in Cleveland Ohio and now in Los Angeles, The beauty industry in Germany is just not the same as in the US, the USA is the place where lots of creators, entrepreneurs and visionaries come together, dare to be bold and support each other like I’ve never experienced somewhere else. I’ve graduated from a barber school, worked as a hairdresser in the German capital, Berlin and had a fun time but always knew that’s not what I want for the rest of my life – there must be more thrill!
To expand my know-how and Industry expertise, I’ve spend months at the exclusive Beni Durrer Makeup school to receive an additional official diploma of Hair & Makeup Artistry.
My training with Swiss celebrity makeup artist Beni Durrer shaped my philosophy: every makeup look tells a story, and I love approaching every look with this story in my mind. Whether it’s crafting an ethereal bridal look, a bold editorial statement, or an unforgettable cinematic character, there are no limits to my creative ideas and solutions to bring out the best in each look!
I’ve spent over 13 years working across film, television, editorial, and commercial projects. I thrive in fast-paced environments and love working with directors, photographers, and artists to bring visions to life. This work environment made me learn so much about people, places and life! I do not want to miss all those impactful experiences and couldn’t be more inspired to keep working in this field.
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?
Moving to the United States meant starting over—from navigating a new market to getting licensed all over again, proving my skills in a new industry, and slowly building my reputation in a city where competition is fierce.
Then came the COVID-19 pandemic, which brought the beauty industry to a standstill. Projects disappeared, productions shut down, and uncertainty took over. But resilience kept me going—pivoting, learning, and finding ways to adapt in an ever-changing landscape. That time tested not just my skills, but my ability to endure.
Now, based in Los Angeles, I bring both European culture and Hollywood creativity to every project. Whether it’s a high-profile editorial, an intricate film character, or a red carpet transformation, now I know – Every face, every project, every challenge is a new opportunity to create something extraordinary – and I’m never late to a job 🙂
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Instead of standing still, I used the benefit of living in California to refine my skills, build connections, and laid the foundation for something bigger. LĪNA is born — a beauty brand that embodies connection to nature, only excepts high quality plant ingredients, and the belief that the real beauty of life is about balance.
One of the first products under LĪNA is the Universal Balm, a multi-use skincare and haircare solution designed to bring balance to both skin and mind. Developed with 16 thoughtfully selected pure, and natural ingredients, this balm is free from synthetic fillers, waxes, and gums, ensuring pure, plant-powered nourishment. Inspired by my own experiences in the beauty industry, I wanted to create a product that was simple yet effective, offering a clean beauty alternative that supports healthy skin and hair without unnecessary additives.
Beyond its formulation, the Universal Balm reflects my commitment to sustainability—it comes in plastic-free, eco-friendly packaging, using recyclable aluminum and paperboard materials. This aligns with my belief that beauty should not only enhance confidence but also respect the environment.
Building this business has been another enlightening journey that has just started, and is so hard but is also already very fulfilling.
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
For me, happiness is rooted in freedom, connection, and balance. Moving to the USA was more than just a career decision—it was about embracing a new way of life, one filled with opportunity and the chance to reinvent myself in ways I never imagined.
I’ve come to love American people—their openness, their drive, their belief in chasing dreams without hesitation. There’s a special kind of energy here, one that fuels creativity and pushes me to keep growing. The California lifestyle is something I deeply appreciate: the blend of nature, ambition, and possibility that makes every day feel like an adventure.
One of my greatest joys is waking up each morning knowing that I get to make my own decisions, shape my own path, and choose how I want to live. That freedom, that ability to build something from the ground up, is incredibly fulfilling. And beyond all the big dreams, it’s the small moments in nature—a quiet sunrise, the sound of ocean waves, the feeling of beach sand between my toes—these little things in nature allow me to reflect what truly matters, health & a balance.
Above all, happiness for me is about balance—between work-life, ambition-rest, creativity and clarity. That’s why I built LĪNA and launched the Universal Balm—a brand that embodies this philosophy, helping others find harmony in their fast paced lifestyle and modern beauty routine.
Pricing:
- 90ml Lightweight Universal Balm $135
Contact Info:
- Website: https://naturewithlina.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/naturewith_lina/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Nature-With-Lina/61565631392807/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/65619408/admin/dashboard/
- Twitter: https://x.com/NaturewithLINA
