NAIDOC Week celebrates and recognises the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. BEAUTYDIRECTORY acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. For more information on NAIDOC Week and this year's theme, visit the official website HERE.
Morrocco is home to Argan oil, China has the rare white lotus and the French have fields of lavender. But none compare to Australia’s biodiversity.
For thousands of years, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have been utilising the native plants, seeds and oils Australia has to offer, mainly for medicinal reasons. Now, in 2023, native ingredients are becoming more and more common, not only in the food we eat, but also to the skincare we apply on our faces.
These ingredients offer a multitude of benefits, nourishing and rejuvenating the skin while fostering a deeper connection with the land. By using ancient knowledge with modern skincare, we not only enhance our beauty routines but also pay homage to the First Nations communities and their connection to the land.
Here are the ingredients to look out for when stocking up on skincare.
Kakadu Plum: One of the most common native ingredients, the Kakadu plum, is a small fruit known for its exceptionally high vitamin C content. First Nation communities have used this fruit for decades due to its antioxidant properties to protect and revitalise the skin. With its ability to promote collagen production and combat free radicals, Kakadu plum offers a natural, radiant glow.
Quandong: Found across the desert regions of Australia, the quandong fruit possesses anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties. This superfruit is rich in vitamin E, making it a valuable ingredient for improving skin elasticity, reducing redness, and moisturising the skin. By incorporating quandong into skincare products, we can tap into its rejuvenating potential.
Emu Oil: Derived from the fat of emus, emu oil has been used by Indigenous communities for centuries due to its nourishing and moisturising properties. Rich in fatty acids, it penetrates deep into the skin, promoting hydration, reducing inflammation, and putting a halt to dryness. Emu oil is a great ingredient for achieving a healthy, youthful complexion.
Native Bush Botanicals: Australia boasts a diverse range of native botanicals, each with unique skincare benefits. For instance, tea tree oil, which comes from the melaleuca plant, it is renowned for its antibacterial properties, making it an effective remedy for acne-prone skin. Eucalyptus oil provides a refreshing and invigorating experience great for colds and blocked noses, while lemon myrtle offers antioxidant and antifungal qualities.