We’re taking our Beauty Passport series around the world on a quest to discover the best global beauty brands worth being on your radar. First stop: Australia, where a knack for natural ingredients and multitasking products means simpler beauty routines that let you spend more time outdoors. “A-Beauty” skincare harnesses the powers of indigenous ingredients to create simple but effective formulas that can be used head-to-toe — think cult-status balms and holy grail body care— while Aussie style makeup champions sun-kissed cheeks and major glow. From long-time favourites to buzzy new brands, here’s our roundup of the best Australian beauty brands.
Lanolips
A favourite of Rosie Huntington-Whitely, Lanolips products are made of the highest quality lanolin, which is a natural wax found on the wool of sheep. Lanolin has a molecular structure that mimics human skin oil, making it the most skin-compatible ingredient and natural moisturiser that protects and heals. It’s used in hospitals after surgeries to help heal open wounds and is safe enough for new-born babies. We like to stash the Original 101 Ointment in our purse and have the Everywhere Multi-Cream on us for long-haul flights.
Dr. Roebuck’s
“Minimal ingredients, maximum results” is the brand philosophy of this clean Australian skincare brand. Dr. Roebuck’s was founded by Australian twin sisters, Kim and Zoe Roebuck, who paid homage to their doctor-parents’ secret formula, developed over 40 years ago, to heal and soothe dry, sensitive skin and eczema. By removing ingredients instead of adding them, Dr. Roebuck’s formulas feature the finest botanical ingredients and none of the nasties (no fillers, synthetic fragrances, harmful chemicals or dyes. Paraben, sulphate and gluten-free.)
Grown Alchemist
Founded by two Australian brothers, Grown Alchemist uses a holistic scientific approach to create advanced natural products potent in vitamins and antioxidants. The botanical skincare line focuses on cellular renewal and nutrient metabolism, using scientifically-innovative formulas that deliver clinically-proven results. Their sleek, minimalist packaging lists all of the ingredients with an informative description that will satisfy any beauty nerd. Gwyneth Paltrow loves the watermelon lip balm and we love the vanilla and orange peel hand cream.
Kora Organics by Miranda Kerr
Supermodel and green goddess Miranda Kerr started her skincare brand KORA Organics when she couldn’t find pure, natural beauty products that were healthy for her skin. Kora formulas are made with the highest grade certified organic ingredients including rosehip oil, chamomile, and turmeric, and their signature noni extract, a powerful antioxidant derived from the Noni fruit native to Australasia. All products are infused with the healing energies of rose quartz to nourish your skin and spirit.
Alpha-H
Alpha-H specialises in treating troubled complexions by gently resurfacing and regulating overactive and sensitive skin. The Australian owned and operated skincare brand was founded by Michelle Doherty who was suffering from chronic cystic acne until she came across the exfoliating, resurfacing and skin renewing benefits of alpha hydroxy acids. Two bottles of Alpha-H Liquid Gold are sold every minute — now that’s cult-status.
Aēsop
No Australian beauty roundup would be complete without Aesop, the Melbourne-based brand that has steadily taken over the world one concrete-walled boutique after another. You’ll instantly recognise their iconic brown-tinted bottles and white and black labels, but its their luxurious plant-based formulas that have maintained cult status since 1987. For the uninitiated: the Resurrection Aromatique Hand Balm (or anything from the Resurrection series) will lure you in with its irresistible scent and nourishing formula. For the skincare junkies: the Parsley Seed Facial Cleanser and Anti-Oxidant Serum are top-shelf staples.
Lucas’ Papaw Ointment
An OG Aussie cult product, the famous red-tubed Lucas’ Papaw Ointment is made using the same formula for over 100 years. The multitasking ointment is made with fermented Australian papaw fruit (papaya) and has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties that relieve and cleanse the skin. Use it on minor wounds, sunburns, rashes and insect bites or apply it to chapped lips for a healthy sheen. It’s wallet-friendly and can be found at your local Watson’s or 7-11.
Kevin.Murphy
Kevin.Murphy products combine high-tech scientific knowledge with the best natural ingredients available, resulting in some really good pro-level shampoo and conditioner. Carefully selected vitamins, amino acids, natural extracts and antioxidants deliver high fashion runway looks while being good for your hair health and kind to the environment. The Aussie hair label sources micro cultivation, organic growing practices and ecologically sound harvesting techniques to ensure the finest natural ingredients.
Editor
Joanna Fu
