Life as a working mum is no mean feat! A constant juggle of family, home and work commitments, “having it all” requires organisation, discipline and critically, self care. In the spirit of celebrating magnificent and multi-tasking mums ahead of Mother’s Day, we asked three newly-returned Natio mamas for their top tips on “filling their cups” – the helpful tips that help them survive and thrive in balancing their roles both at home and in the workplace. 

 

 

Christina Schroder
Natio Training & Education Manager
Mum to 3 year old Voilet and 12 month old Phoenix

“I believe we can ‘have it all’ just not all at once. Servitude is definitely part of being a mum, but having your own needs met is so important. The need to carve out time to have my cup filled became apparent very early on in my mothering journey and continues to be a priority to avoid post partum depletion. Some things I do to fill my cup: work – I really enjoy working, feeling part of something beyond my home is important to me. On my way to work I listen to a podcast or call friends for a catch up, sharing stories or having a laugh with close friends is a great way to start the day; and when it comes to social time with friends or moving my body, I book it in my diary like it’s an appointment so it actually happens.” 

Belinda Cucé
Natio Senior Product Developer
Mum to 2.5 year old Sienna       

“Being a mum has really taught me how to enjoy being in the present and learn about strengths I didn’t know I had. The weeks can get super busy juggling work, mum life and social commitments so I’ve found it essential to be really organised and plan for the week ahead. My husband and I decide our weekly dinners in advance and do one large shop on the weekend so we can be home in the evening during the week with our daughter Sienna. I’m very grateful to have our parents help take care of her while we work. Motherhood is really a love like no other."

 

Sheridan Wright
Natio International Sales Manager
Mum to 12 month old Lachlan  

"Regular exercise helps calm me down. I find the most practical way of fitting in a work-out is using exercise on-demand whenever I can find that bit of time. But if it doesn’t happen there’s no point in beating myself up about it. I’m also pretty obsessive about planning the night before a workday, with every little thing prepared and packed right down to the undies that I’m wearing. This probably sounds over the top, but I would never leave the house on time if I didn’t. And the best tip that I took from others was to hand over day care drop offs to Dad. This alleviated a lot of separation anxiety for both of us.”  

 

Natio is proud to be partnering with Australian charity Lighthouse Foundation to support its mission to end youth homelessness.

As one of Australia’s leading cosmetics and skincare brands, Natio has today (27 April) launched its new kids range and committed a cash donation to help Lighthouse Foundation deliver its life-changing programs.

Lighthouse Foundation has been providing homes and tailored care to young Victorians for more than 31 years, with a range of programs including Lighthouse Homes, Foster Care & Family Support and In Community

Natio will also gift young people in Lighthouse’s care with products and deliver skincare workshops to help build confidence.

Natio Managing Director Mahesh Ross says the partnership is an opportunity to enrich the lives of young people and establish a strong link between the two organisations.

“Over the years, Natio has supported Lighthouse Foundation and its Founder Susan in a variety of ways. This is the first time we are formalising our ongoing partnership and we look forward to integrating this campaign into many facets of Natio’s daily operations,” says Mr Ross.

Susan Barton AM, Founder of Lighthouse, says Natio has already shown its commitment to helping young people doing it tough.

“Natio’s Founder Max held the hand of one of Lighthouse’s vulnerable young people at their greatest time of need and his direct support changed this person’s life. We can trust that he, and the Natio team, will continue to hold our hand on the journey of ending youth homelessness together,” says Ms Barton.

“Together, we will make a difference and care for many more vulnerable children. By spreading the word and inviting a wider group of people to connect as a community, we’re enabling these kids to feel they are loved and belong because protecting children is everybody’s business.”

Natio delivered its first cosmetics and skincare education workshop at one of Lighthouse’s Parents and Babies homes last month. Its new kids range of bath, body and pure essential oil blends has been specially designed for toddlers through to tweens.

“The Natio kids collection is built on the principles of happiness within the home and the team at Lighthouse work tirelessly to provide consistent and safe spaces for the young people in their care. For us it was a no-brainer to use this collection as an opportunity to amplify the outstanding work done at Lighthouse,” says Mr Ross.

Natio customers will have the opportunity to support Lighthouse with a donation at checkout available on the Natio website throughout 2023.

Niacinamide, also known as Vitamin B3, is an anti-inflammatory ingredient used in skincare primarily for brightening and evening out skin tone. This trusted ingredient helps protect the skin barrier and reduce the impacts of daily stresses, including pollution, UV rays and everyday toxins, while smoothing skin texture over time. For those with parched skin, niacinamide also provides sought after moisture by boosting the production of ceramides.  
A few other benefits include (but are not limited to):  

 

• Oil regulation 
• Minimising the appearance of pores 
• Treating hyperpigmentation 
• Treating acne 
• Building keratin to keep skin firm and healthy 

How do I use Niacinamide?

Unlike its close acid-based friends, this water-based vitamin is suitable for all skin types and most skincare routines. It is often considered a gentler active for targeted skincare solutions and many look to this ingredient above more harsh acids, as it is less prone to causing skin sensitivity and irritation.  

Niacinamide is less temperamental than other actives and can be combined with most other serums and creams, including those with retinol, Hyaluronate, Vitamin C and AHAs – so don’t be afraid to give it a try! 

Want to get in on all that bright skin action? At Natio, we have two key products that contain Niacinamide, both of which slip easily into your existing skincare routine.  

Serum or cream? 

For a lightweight formula that can be added to either your morning or nightly routine (or even both!), our Ageless Luminous Perfecting Serum provides an intensive moisture boost with the added benefits of Rosehip Oil and Vitamin C.  

Studies have shown that Niacinamide can also reduce the depth of wrinkles, so this is antioxidant-rich formula is the perfect next step for that glowing, fresh complexion. Simply apply 2-3 drops to cleansed skin and massage until absorbed. This milky formula is best applied before heavier oil-based serums and prior to moisturising for optimum absorption. 

Alternatively, our Treatments range contains a Skin Renewal Ceramide Line & Wrinkle Cream packed with ceramides and skin-firming fatty acids. Combining Omega 3, 6 and 9, this cream offers a gentle yet effective anti-ageing treatment. If you feel your current moisturiser isn’t quite hitting the mark, try replacing it with this plumping and smoothing solution. This product is a customer favourite with positive reviews testifying to its efficacy: 

 

Like many things in life, the key to success is consistency. The benefits of Niacinamide are not instant, and changes to skin usually result after 2 to 4 weeks of use, if used twice daily. For noticeable results, be patient and consistent when using this in your routine.  

For your customised skincare routine, try our Skincare Finder. By taking a short quiz, we can provide you with a personalised morning and evening routine based on your skin’s needs. 

Who doesn’t want to save time, money and energy? Investing in a skincare routine that is void of all the fluff, but still gets you the results you love is the reason the word ‘skinimalism’ has been gaining traction in the skincare and beauty world. Natio’s skin-first approach to creating natural Australian beauty ensures that the natural ingredients we choose to go into your favourite skincare products soothe, nourish and protect your skin.

It’s all about simplifying your skincare routine and focusing on fewer products, which can be incredibly beneficial for your skin. If that sounds like something you’re looking for, read on as we explore the benefits of skinimalism and what natural plant extracts and oils are best to keep your skin healthy.

What is Skinimalism?

Skinimalism is a minimalist approach to skincare. It’s all about simplifying your skincare routine and focusing on fewer products. Instead of a 12-step routine of different products, it encourages that you use just a few key items that address your skin’s specific needs. The idea is to give your skin a break from all the products and ingredients that can sometimes do more harm than good.

Benefits of Skinimalism

One of the biggest benefits of skinimalism is that it can be gentler on your skin. When you use fewer products, you’re exposing your skin to fewer ingredients, which means there’s less chance of irritation or inflammation. This can be especially beneficial if you have sensitive skin or are prone to breakouts.

Skinimalism can also be more sustainable. When you use fewer products, you’re consuming less packaging and producing less waste. This can help reduce your environmental footprint and contribute to a healthier planet.

Finally, skinimalism can also be more cost-effective. If you’re using fewer products, you’re spending less money on skincare overall. At Natio, we believe in cherishing your own uniquness and loving yourself by taking the time to care for your mental, spiritual and physical health. This is why Natio products are incredibly well priced and provide fantastic value for money.

Need to know what ingredients will go the distance? Read on.

Natural plant extracts and oils for healthy skin

When it comes to skinimalism, natural plant extracts and oils can be your best friends. These ingredients are often gentle and effective, and they can help keep your skin healthy and glowing. Here are some of the best natural plant extracts and oils to look for, and included in the majority of Natio’s face, body and home ranges:

1. Chamomile Extract: Chamomile extract is known for its soothing properties. It can help calm inflamed or irritated skin, making it a great choice for those with sensitive skin.
   
   
2. Rosehip Oil: Rosehip oil is packed with antioxidants, which can help protect your skin from damage caused by free radicals. It’s also high in essential fatty acids, which can help keep your skin hydrated and plump.
   
   
3. Aloe Vera: Aloe vera is another ingredient that’s known for its soothing properties. It can help reduce inflammation and redness, making it a great choice for those with acne-prone skin.
   
   
4. Jojoba Oil: Jojoba oil is a lightweight oil that’s similar in structure to the natural oils produced by your skin. This means it’s easily absorbed and can help regulate your skin’s oil production.
   
   
5. Green Tea Extract: Green tea extract is packed with antioxidants, making it a great choice for protecting your skin from environmental stressors. It’s also known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce redness and inflammation.

For those looking to get bang for their buck and lead busy lives, skinimalism can be a great way to simplify your skincare routine without sacrificing your results. By incorporating natural plant extracts and oils into your routine, you can keep your skin healthy and glowing without exposing it to harsh chemicals or synthetic ingredients.

If you haven’t yet checked out our Skincare Finder, it’s the best place to start to find a routine that works for you and your skin! Check it out here.

When it comes to achieving sumptuous soft skin, having a good routine in place is essential to make sure you’re giving your skin ultimate hydration around the clock. For skin that will have you looking like you’ve just had a visit to the day spa, there are 4 simple steps that you can add into your routine whether you’re a skincare newbie or afficionado. With the right routine, anyone can achieve that visibly soft, smooth skin that will have you glowing from the inside out!  

Your new facial elixir

To lock in moisture all day long and protect your skin’s barrier, your best bet to visibly soft skin is to implement a facial oil into your routine.  We recommend applying our luxurious Nourishing Miracle Facial Oil directly after washing away the day with your cleanser, in order to prevent moisture loss. This powerful oil contains a blend of sweet Almond Oil, Jojoba Oil and Vitamin E to deeply hydrate and nourish your skin simultaneously. For best results, massage a few drops into the skin and let it absorb a few minutes before applying your day moisturiser to really maximise its hydrating benefits. Incorporating a facial oil into your skincare routine will have your skin looking and feeling its best in no time!  

Moistu-rise and shine!

The number one not-so-well-kept secret to achieving supple, healthy skin is incorporating a good day moisturiser into your routine. Whilst finding a holy grail moisturiser can be tricky, it doesn’t have to be with our Rosewater Hydration Moisture Balance Day Cream SPF 50+. Not only does this two-in-one help keep your skin hydrated throughout the day, but it works to protect and defend your skin against harmful UV rays – and all without having to worry about adding another step to your routine! The potent blend of plant extracts Rose, Rosewater and Aloe work to deliver daily hydration and delicate care for visibly healthy skin.  

 The ultimate beauty sleep

At night your skin is most susceptible to losing water and becoming dehydrated, which can ultimately lead to dull and dry skin. To unlock the secret to soft skin, a sleep mask is a powerful addition to add to your night skincare routine if you’re wanting to achieve velvety soft skin. Our Marine Mineral Overnight Repair Sleep Mask is designed to help lock in moisture and provide it with a much-needed dose of hydration and nourishment all while you sleep! Simply apply to the face directly after cleansing and allow the key ingredients of Hyaluronate, Seaweed Extract and combination of Marine Minerals to repair skin whilst you doze off, and get ready to wake to visibly pillowy skin come morning.  

Keep skin hydrated on-the-go

Elevate your skincare routine with a spritz of hydration on-the-go! A face mist is ideal for that instant splash of hydration to the face, neck and decolletage as desired throughout the day, or to refresh your makeup after a long day. Our Rosewater Hydration Drench Mineral Face Mist is the perfect skin-saviour for when your skin is in desperate need of a little pick-me-up after being in a dry or air-conditioned environment. To complement the rest of your routine, we recommend spraying before your moisturiser to maximise absorption, or spray as you need for on-the-go skincare. Be sure to keep a bottle handy in your bag to spritz-and-go!  

A skincare routine incorporating a facial oil, day moisturiser, sleep mask and face mist can make all the difference for the health and softness of your skin in the long run.  

For more tips on how you can create healthy, glowing skin, checkout our other blog article for an easy DIY facial here.  

On 17^th February 2023, we celebrated our 30^th lap around the sun, near to where it all began at Abbotsford Convent.

Past and present employees joined valued suppliers and distributors for a gala event at the Convent, mere blocks from our first office premises at Marine Parade.

200 guests met to celebrate 30 years of natural Australian beauty over canapes accompanied by a three-piece jazz band, before enjoying a three-course banquet catered by Peter Rowland Group.

Our Managing Director Mahesh Ross opened the event which highlighted Natio's many achievements over the course of the past three decades, and launched our new website pages, a time capsule of Natio’s founder story, brand timeline and commitments to the future.

The Gala event also coincided with the launch of the our new colour story collection, Celebrate, a limited-edition capsule of cosmetics including our first ever 18-pan eyeshadow palette, a cream blush and highlight duo and sparkling nail colour.

Founder Max Ross re-tuned his guitar and joined former bandmates of The Groop, for the band’s first performance in decades. The Groop performed their top hits from the late 60s including I’m Sorry and Ain’t She Sweet.

The night concluded with hits from over the decades, spun by DJ Claire Elliott.

Scroll through the gallery below, shot by our talented photographer, Tuscany Gray.

Sensitive skin can be a frustrating and challenging issue to deal with. Whether you’ve had sensitive skin your whole life, or only recently developed some sensitivities, it can be confusing when your much-loved products no longer play nicely with your skin.  

How do I know if I have sensitive skin?  

Several factors can cause skin sensitivity, including changes in climate, hormonal changes, stress, and exposure to irritants. If you notice sudden skin sensitivity, try to identify any changes in your routine or environment that may have caused it. 

People with sensitive skin may experience redness, itching, dryness, and other uncomfortable symptoms. If you have sensitive skin, it is essential to know what to avoid, how to start a skincare routine, how to soothe sensitive skin on your face, and how to de-stress your skin.  

If you have sensitive skin, you may experience the following symptoms: 

1. Redness 
2. Itching or stinging 
3. Dryness or flakiness 
4. Tightness (perhaps also add in swelling/inflammation of the skin) 
5. Burning or tingling 

We’ve put together this blog post to help you with the above, and shed some light on how you can fall in love with your skin, sensitive or not.  

What should I avoid if I have sensitive skin? 

If you have sensitive skin, it is crucial to avoid using products with harsh chemicals and fragrances. These ingredients can irritate your skin and cause inflammation.  

Additionally, avoid using products with alcohol, exfoliants, and abrasive scrubs. Opt for gentle and fragrance-free products that are specifically formulated for sensitive skin. 

At Natio, your skin’s health is at the forefront of all our formulations. Our Calm range is fortified with natural Calendula and Oat extracts to nourish and soothe your skin, feeling like a gentle, nurturing hug that replenishes and softens the skin.  

How do I start a skincare routine for sensitive skin? 

When starting a skincare routine for sensitive skin, keeping it simple is one of the best ways to keep your skin glowing.

1. Always start with a gentle cleanser, like our Calm Delicate Care Cleansing Milk. The calming cleanser has a milky texture that soothes and reduces redness as you massage it into the skin. It also contains cooling Aloe to hydrate and soothe. Apply onto a damp face with clean hands and gently massage. Rinse away with warm water or gently wipe away with a soft cloth.
2. Follow with a hydrating moisturiser, like our Calm Gentle Care Hydrating Lotion. This extra gentle hydrating moisturiser offers the perfect daily moisture solution for delicate skin. It contains Cucumber and Chamomile extracts to soothe, Shea Butter and Sodium Hyaluronate to hydrate and help restore the skin’s natural moisture barrier. 
3. Always start with a gentle cleanser, like our Calm Delicate Care Cleansing Milk. The calming cleanser has a milky texture that soothes and reduces redness as you massage it into the skin. It also contains cooling Aloe to hydrate and soothe. Apply onto a damp face with clean hands and gently massage. Rinse away with warm water or gently wipe away with a soft cloth.
4. Caring for the under eye area is of paramount importance with sensitive skin, as the skin around the eyes can be very delicate. Gently nourish this eye area with our fragrance-free, sensitivity tested Calm Extra Gentle Eye Cream, containing Shea Butter to nourish.
5. To give you skin that extra TLC it deserves, especially in the colder months, opt for a nightly night cream like our Calm Nourishing Night Cream. With Oat Kernel to soothe, Willow Bark to calm and Vitamin E to naturally help strengthen the skin's protective barrier, it is your secret weapon to returning unsettled skin to smooth softness.

How do you heal sensitive skin on face? 

Other things you can do in your everyday life to reduce skin sensitivity is to use lukewarm water when washing your face and avoid scrubbing aggressively. Also be careful not to touch your face during the day, and to dress warmly and protectively when temperatures plummet.  

What helps sensitive skin naturally?

If you prefer natural remedies, several ingredients can help soothe sensitive skin. Aloe Vera, Chamomile, and Oatmeal are all known for their calming properties, which is why we have included them in our Calm range.  

You can even apply Aloe Vera or Chamomile tea directly to affected areas, or use a moisturiser that contains these ingredients. Oatmeal can be made into a paste and applied as a face mask. 

 

How do I de-stress my skin?

Stress can cause sensitive skin. Stress triggers the production of cortisol, which can lead to inflammation and skin sensitivity. Additionally, stress can disrupt your skin's natural barrier, making it more susceptible to irritants 

If you want to de-stress your skin, try incorporating relaxation techniques into your routine. This could include meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga. Our focus on wellbeing range and our essential oil ultrasonic diffusers were created to help bring calm back into your life using age-old essential oil remedies and aromatherapy. 

Additionally, ensure that you are getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, and staying hydrated. Avoiding stressors and practicing good self-care can help alleviate symptoms of sensitive skin. 

If you have sensitive skin, taking care of it may require some extra effort, but it is essential for maintaining healthy, comfortable skin. Avoid harsh products, use gentle skincare, identify triggers, and take care of your overall health and well-being. By doing so, you can help alleviate symptoms and keep your skin looking and feeling its best. 

 

Now in its 30^th year, Natio is going from strength to strength, recently ranking #1 in traditional and community pharmacy* for total cosmetics, total men’s skincare and total facial skincare.

This ranking is supported by IRi, a market data analysis company responsible for POS customer analytics and insights.

IRi provided validation confirming Natio was the top brand in Australia Community Pharmacy Market over the course of 12 months up until January 2023, across cosmetics, facial skincare and men’s skincare, referring to sales market data formed of Total Australia Community Pharmacy, excluding My Chemist Group and Priceline.

It has been three decades since Natio entered the pharmacy space, with the brand forging defining relationships with state-based, family-owned and operated pharmacy distributors in the late 90s.

“At Natio, we understand that nature nurtures best, and have spent three decades fine-tuning our formulas to provide our customers superior natural products backed by science. The data shared by IRi reaffirms our commitment to provide our customers only the best in natural Australian beauty,” managing director, Mahesh Ross said.

“Pharmacy really is the heartland of the Natio brand and we have continued strong, loyal relationships with these partners since entering the pharmacy retail space in 1996. It is encouraging to see this data with the knowledge that Natio is the first choice for customers in pharmacy across even some of the most remote parts of the country. Without the support of our pharmacy relationships, Natio would not be the 30 year-strong brand it is today.”

 

To read more about the Natio story, and our history in the pharmacy space, view the 30 Year Timeline.

* “Data sourced from IRI MarketEdge MAT to 08/01/2023 based on data definitions provided by Natio Pty Ltd.”

This year, Natio is incredibly proud to celebrate its thirtieth anniversary! From humble beginnings in 1993, Natio has grown to become a much-loved and respected Australian beauty brand. As a business, Natio is sincerely grateful to its wonderful team and beautiful customers for helping the brand get there.   

Propelled – always and forever, since day dot – by a firm appreciation for Mother Nature, a commitment to positivity and an unwavering adoration of its beloved Australian home, Natio was arguably the original” “A-Beauty” brand (born at a time before the term “A- Beauty” was coined, and Aussie brands weren’t yet prized or on-trend).  

With a conscious (and evolving)  edit of simple yet effective, plant-based self-care solutions, Natio instilled the genuine, easygoing spirit and unique natural beauty inherent to Australia into each of its skin, bath, bodycare, cosmetics and aromatics formulas  to gently win the love and loyalty of customers – first on home shores and later, also abroad.  

Supporting, promoting and cherishing “Natural Australian Beauty” has become both Natio’s premise and its promise. In sticking with this commitment to positive and easygoing natural beauty, Natio has grown organically and with integrity from a health food store haircare offering to – now - a leading and respected beautycare brand across pharmacy and department store channels.  

“The last 30 years have been tremendously rewarding” says Mahesh Ross, Natio Managing Director. 

“Natio is an Australian family business, with a heart and soul to match. Dad and I have loved working together in growing and evolving Natio to the brand and business it is today and we continue to be inspired each and every day, not only by the abundant beauty of nature and our unique island home, but also the generous support of our team, our business partners and our customers. We are both humbled and grateful for the support and loyalty of our community, and incredibly excited for the next phase of growth for Natio. We look forward to the next 30 years of celebrating natural Australian beauty”. 

For more detail on Natio’s origins and history, click here.