beautybloggers

WILDCRAFTED ORGANICS

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Wildcrafted Organics is an Australian skincare line that is inspired by the healing power of plants. Nicole, the founder has a background in nutrition, botanical medicine and extensive experience in the area of herbalism. Her broad knowledge and practice in this field led her to create clean and pure skincare products that incorporate Australian botanicals that are unique and wild crafted. Read about the importance of wildcrafting in the interview with Nicole below.

What is wildcrafting?

Wildcrafting is the practice of harvesting certain plants from their natural or wild environment to use for food or medicinal purposes. Its something that has to be done sustainably and with considerable respect for the environment and in some cases would involve only removing a certain part of the plant so as not to endanger the species.

Why are wildcrafted ingredients so important to your line of products?

Wild Plants have grown without any interference, they develop differently as they must survive in the harshest of environments and it is here that they don’t just survive – they thrive where other plants could not exist. Incredibly high levels of antioxidants are produced to enable their survival and it is these bio active antioxidants that are so beneficial for our skin. The essence of all things “Wild” – Strength, Wisdom and Beauty.

Can you tell us more about where your ingredients come from?

I use only the purist organic or wildcrafted ingredients in my products and they come from all over the world but it is Australia’s unique botanicals that excite me the most. As an Island Australia is a sanctuary where nature evolves and flourishes in a pure environment, sheltered from the influence of the rest of the world. Australia has an abundance of unique botanicals that the Aboriginal people have been Wildcrafting for thousands of years and as these plants are studied using advanced extraction methods we are seeing incredibly high levels of bioactive ingredients. An example of this is Kakadu Plum which has the world s highest Vitamin C concentration, equivalent to 100x that of an orange. The Kakadu Plum powder I use  comes from the Dampier Peninsula just north of Broome in Australia and it is here that Bruno Dann is bringing back to his community the traditional ways of taking care of the land and the Kakadu Plum or Gumbinge trees, which is helping restore the amazing bush in this region. All profits from this product are sent back to the Nyui Nyui people who wild harvist it. Other native botanicals I use are found in pristine parts of  North/ North East Australia and are now being organically grown so as to ensure the sustainability and survival of the plant.

What are your favourite ingredients to work with?

I use a bioactive complex of three indigenous Australian plums Kakadu Plum, Illawarra Plum and Burdekin Plum. The research on this particular extract is compelling showing it to to contain incredibly high levels of antioxidants, stimulate Hyaluronic acid, pro-collagen 1and fibronectin synthesis in the skin reducing fine lines and wrinkles and increases hydration while strengthening the skins barrier.

What was the first product your created for Wildcrafted Organics?

The first product in the collection was my Wildflowers Rejuvinating Serum, from the beginnning it was so important to me that all of  the products were concentrated in skin loving ingredients, nutrients and bioactive botanicals – no ingredient is added to reduce cost or fill and all bioactives are used at the required level for efficacy. This product is used instead of a moisturiser and is basically a daily multi vitamin for your skin with a scent of wild jasmine and cacao.

What is your hero product from the line?

The Everlasting Beauty Balm Concentrate with 24 kt gold. So concentrated in skin regenerating / collagen promoting / healing butters and precious oils. It absorbs effortlessly into the skin leaving no trace but providing a level of nourishment that moisturisers just can’t compete with. Multi tasking it transforms into a luminous, skin loving foundation when mixed with your dry mineral make up and can be used anywhere that needs extra nourishment. Is suitable for all skin types but especially dry, stressed, scarred or sun damaged skin. Massage into the skin with a Gua Sha for an incredibly indulgent treat.

BORN AGAIN BODY

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MEET THE MAKER: BORN AGAIN BODY

I had the opportunity to meet with Jess, the founder of Born Again Body. We spent the day at the beach, soaking up the sunshine and moisturising ourselves with her refreshing and unique Skin Tonic.

The motivation behind Born Again Body came while Jess was living in Bali and  experienced how basically every body lotion and cream she applied simply melted or glided off because of the hot and humid conditions. After lots of research and development she created a very unique solution, a hydrating skin tonic, which has all the moisturising benefits and withstands heat and humidity – conditioning your skin.

Spending the day with Jess in the sun and heat, I was able to experience the benefits of the tonic first hand. The product feels absolutely AMAZING – fresh, light and hydrating. I really like that this moisturiser is a tonic and not a cream – and can be applied within seconds. Although originally designed for hot summer conditions, it can be effortlessly and used all year round.

Enjoy the interview below.

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After living in Bali, your idea for Born Again Body was born. Has the lifestyle and culture in Bali influenced Born Again Body?

Bali was such a special, uplifting and life-changing time for me. The simple lifestyle, complex culture and yet beautiful landscape all had a huge impact and influence on the direction of Born Again Body. While I was living there I found it so hard to look after my skin, particularly living under the harsh sun. Most of the products I found were either full of toxic ingredients or were too thick and greasy for the humid climate. Having spent most of my days outdoors I needed a product that was lightweight, non-greasy and preferably natural. It had to complement this kind of active lifestyle. For me, being outdoors and in nature is so important; it re-energizes and inspires me. Which has become the ethos behind the Born Again Body brand and the essence I’ve tried to capture in our signature product.

How important are the ingredients you have chosen for the Hydrating Skin Tonic?

The ingredients I chose for the Hydrating Skint Tonic have been carefully thought out and researched. I didn’t want to jump on the latest beauty bandwagon, I didn’t want to use the latest beauty craze ingredient. I wanted to use trusted, reliable and natural ingredients that actually work and have stood the test of time. Hence why some of the main active ingredients include aloe vera, cucumber seed oil, vitamin E, rose oil, green tea and jojoba oil. This combination not only performs so well together but each individual ingredient plays its own important role in hydrating and replenishing the skin.

What is your approach to beauty?

Less is more. As I’ve gotten older I wear less makeup because it makes me feel more confident, I’m less concerned about other people’s opinions of me and I want my skin care products to be super simple and no fuss. You also start to become more comfortable in your own skin and accepting of your “flaws”. What you think are your flaws are actually so beautiful and unique and what makes you different.

The Hydrating Skin Tonic is such a unique product. What is your favourite way to use it?

I love the simplicity of it. Like I said I’m all about products that are no fuss and are easy to integrate into your lifestyle. Through the colder months I’ve been spritzing it on my face during the day for extra hydration. And then during the warmer months I love the ease of jumping out of the shower, spraying it all over my body and within a minute my skin is nourished, hydrated and feeling smooth without that greasy feeling.

What is your beauty routine?

A beauty routine to me encompasses not only looking after what’s on the outside but also what’s on the inside. It’s about taking care of your body as well as your mind and heart. Every day I make sure I get up and move in some way; a walk along the beach, a hot yoga class or just stepping outside to get some fresh air. Plenty of sleep and staying hydrated also does wonders for the health of your skin. And the good ol’ cleanse, tone and moisturise has been a faithful routine of mine since I was quite young.

 

 

 

 

 

YOUTH TO THE PEOPLE

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MEET THE MAKER: YOUTH TO THE PEOPLE

I recently had the opportunity to meet Joe and Greg, the founders of Youth To The People. We spent the day drinking green juices, talking about superfoods, pressed juices, California and the inspiration behind their skincare. If you’re not familiar with the brand or you’re a huge fan (like me), you will definitely appreciate Youth to the People’s nature meets science approach to skincare. Read the full interview below.

 

How has the Californian lifestyle influenced YTTP?

The Californian lifestyle has been a big influence to YTTP, growing up in California we live active and healthy lifestyles. We have always been interested in a healthy lifestyle, our families were taking vitamins in the 70’s and 80’s and making natural skincare. Growing up in California has been a big part of YTTP, we enjoy the natural our surrounding and draw inspiration from the healthy lifestyle.

Green superfoods are keys ingredients in your products, how important are they to your line?

Prior to launching YTTP, we had a strong interest in superfoods and cold pressed juices.  Green superfoods contain large amounts of antioxidants, chlorophyll, vitamins and phytonutrients. Knowing the health benefits of drinking cold pressed juices, we thought how great they would work topically on skin.

We were consuming our green juices daily and wanted our skincare to have the same benefits as our diets.  Working with our chemist and getting an extract that would be ideal in skincare, we were able to build a line of products that provide a great source of antioxidants, whilst helping fight free radicals and preventing signs of ageing. All the things we love in our pressed juices, but being able to apply the benefits to your skin.

One of the more unique ingredients in your products is ALFALFA. Can you tell us more about it?

Alfalfa is used in the YTTP products as it contains high amounts of chlorophyll, being such a great detoxifier we use a lot of this in our skincare. Our cleanser contains alfalfa for this reason and it also gives it the green colour (naturally). We wanted an ingredient that is rich in antioxidants, calming on the skin and helps with the detoxification process and helps remove the daily build up of toxins and pollution. Knowing how important chlorophyll is internally, we wanted to apply this topically.

 

Your grandmother created skincare, how has she inspired YTTP?

Our grandmother launched her skincare line in 1979, she wanted to create her own line of products after seeing the various skincare trends in Europe. She created a botanical based line, as it was more effective for the skin. We grew up around the business and learnt about skincare, in the last five years we thought how can we create a skincare line that utilised our grandmothers creative ideas and experience, as well as our inspiration from drinking green juices/superfoods. Having our grandmothers industry experience and growing up in the skincare industry has really helped us make quality skincare, our aim is to create quality products that make a difference.

What are your grandmothers tips on skincare?

Our grandmother believes in creating quality and effective products that work for everyone. One of her tips is education, educate yourself about the products and ingredients you’re using, are they going to help with your skin goals. Our grandmother really believes in the importance of ingredients, educating yourself about ingredients and picking the correct products for your skin.

What is your hero product from the line?

Our hero product is the Kale + Green Tea Spinach Vitamins Age Prevention Cleanser and the Kale + Spinach Hyaluronic Acid Age Prevention Face Cream. It’s packed with so many great superfoods that help detoxify your skin as well as providing skin with an abundance of antioxidants, vitamins and hydration. The cleanser is our hero product, it was one of the first products we launched. We wanted to create a product that was a cleanser and toner in one, to help simplify the beauty routine as well creating a comfortable pH balance for skin. The Kale + Green Tea Spinach Vitamins Age Prevention Cleanser is our favourite hero product that multitasks and suits all skin types.

 

 

 

 

MEET THE MAKER: THE BEAUTY ARCHIVE

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MEET THE BEAUTY ARCHIVE

I’ve always had a fascination with Scandinavian design and it was not a surprise that I found myself drawn to The Beauty Archive. This brand offers more than just lip products, the simplicity and modern style of each product creates a slow and beautiful ritual of self care. The Beauty Archive has become one of my favourite organic, green beauty brands.

 

1. Where does your interest in slow beauty come from?

My interest in the slow beauty movement sprung out of a need of change. Influenced by my work experiences, I value its holistic approach on beauty and self-care. I have practiced psychotherapy for several years and seen a trend of young adults struggling with mental illness due to higher demands and the up speed pace of society today. We are supposed to be better, do more and faster. I truly believe we need to slow down. Working in the beauty industry I am aware of the impact fast beauty has on our environment and how the products we daily feed our skin affect long-term health. I see slow beauty as a practice, of making informed decisions and first and foremost taking time to take care.

2. How has the Scandinavian culture influenced your lip products?

Scandinavian culture I think emerges from living close to nature. It somehow allows us to be present and to perceive without overstimulation. My aim is to create makeup staples that enhance natural beauty and individuality. In my lip products you can also see contemporary and minimalistic elements, a part of a Scandinavian effortless aesthetics. My wish is for people wearing my makeup to embrace their inner and outer beauty and to feel empowered by it.

3. How important are the ingredients you choose for your formulations?

The ingredients are of most importance. I guess you can call me a perfectionist when it comes to my products. I want them to perform well but never at the expense of our animals or nature. The sustainable perspective of slow beauty is about conscious choices and in my products you will not find ingredients that isn’t natural in its origin, organically produced and vegan. Not using animal derived ingredients is something I care deeply about hence some of the pigments in my red shades are made of tiny amounts of synthetic colorants. My aim is for my products to be enjoyed by everyone. This is also why I have chosen not to add scents in my formulations.

4. What are your favourite shades from the line?

Every shade in my collection is designed with a vision in mind and made to complement each other, individual style preferences and occasions. But if I were to choose, the first product would have to be Wedding Cake lip balm. It is the perfect overnight treatment for dry lips and I never go to sleep without it. It was also the very first product I developed so it is close to my heart. As for my tinted lippies, I think I would go for I Do! and Timeless. I Do! being a subtle, yet buildable, everyday peachy pink tint and Timeless, my to-go-to matte red lip cream which I love wearing with a clean base and just some black mascara. The runner up to I Do! is Bridesmaid’s Blush, which I love and use a lot on both lips and cheeks.

5. What is your hero beauty product?

My personal hero product(s) would have to be skincare. With a clean and moisturized skin you set the best start for any makeup to perform its best. A mild cleanser, a face mist and a moisturizing face cream is a great start. If choosing a hero makeup product though, it would be a multi-tasking concealer. A good concealer covers and at the same time enhances what you want the eye to focus on. There are a variety of nice green beauty concealers out there, some which preferably can be worn as a light overall base. If speaking of a hero product from my own line it will be up to the wearer to decide.
6. What are three things you do, to keep your skin healthy?
Since passing 30, self-care and practicing inner balance has become more important for my skin to stay healthy. I spend more ‘me time’ today than I did in my 20’s and this gives me time to relax and reload. Drinking water, preferably with a touch of lemon and evening green teas help the cleansing process and having a sensible stomach, I try to eat balanced and regularly. Personally, I have seen a positive result in my skin since switching dairy products to vegan alternatives. Right now I’ve got a thing for coconut beverages! Lastly, I try to spend time in the open air with my family and pursuing physical activities I find joyful at the moment.

BOXWALLA + EARTHWISE BEAUTY

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Beauty subscription boxes are all the rage at the moment,  they are a great way to try new brands and products. Not all boxes are the same, why? Well some are just full of fillers and crappy samples you just don’t need!

Boxwalla is not your average subscription box, you won’t get fillers or samples you’re never going to use. Boxwalla is a carefully curated, well thought out and offers you a variety of products you are definitely going to LOVE! It starts with their box, it is made from cotton handmade paper. Making it a tree free box, it’s also made by a small family owned company in India who have been making tree free paper for generations. The Boxwalla box is designed to be reused and is 100% recyclable.

They have a few boxes: there is the film box, food box, book box and the the beauty box. The BEAUTY BOX, has a great variety of niche and effective green beauty brands. This month the Boxwalla beauty box unveiled three gorgeous products from Earthwise Beauty.

One of the many great things BOXWALLA does, is introducing you to some really amazing brands that are passionate about crafting their creations. Meet Earthwise Beauty, organic skincare products that are healing, unrefined, unique and potent: Nap in the meadow, Farizad’s veil and the Ruby facial oil.

I tried and recommend following beautiful ritual to protect, heal and nourish your skin:

Firstly start with the Nap in the meadow, an aloe base face serum. It’s refreshing herbaceous scent is simply calming. It is lovingly made with the purest essences and essential oils that help hydrate and heal skin. Once applied you can instantly see it clears your complexion. Then it can be layered perfectly with the Ruby facial oil.  The scent of this oil is absolutely divine –  think tropical guava and fresh florals. The gorgeous aroma is highly addictive – you will want to apply this everyday! Optionally this face oil can be effortlessly mixed with Farizad’s veil, a zinc oxide powder, to create your own natural, non-toxic and non-nano particle sunscreen (30 SPF). All three products were designed to complement each other. The serum and oil are suited for all skin types – in particular for oily skin, like mine. They are absorbed with ease and help regenerate and rejuvenate your skin.

Thank you BOXWALLA for introducing me to these lovely skin treats from Earthwisebeauty.

Here is a sneak peak of the AUGUST BOXWALLA featuring Odacité Skincare and Henna Organics.