Local heroes: the best of

There was a time when we were best known for Nicole Kidman, Reef. Increasingly, however, ou home-grown beauty products are nearing the top of that , ur list. Fuelled by an abundance of active plum, a passion for no-nonsense formulas that soothe and protect, and some good old-fashioned entrepreneurial spirit, beauty lovers are now spoilt for choice when it with home-grown skincare and make-up. To follow, some cult products, new s launches and tried-and-tested favourites for an all-Australian beauty regimen full of effortless,yet effective,formulas. y

Skin-loving screen

Most sunscreens developed in Europe and the US do not cut it in on our shores. In fact, an SPF F 30 that works on a sun loungger inn Ibiza is unlikely to give you an ounce of protection on Bondi Beach. So, every summer we restock our bathroom cabinets with home-grown formulas, one of our favourites being Ultra Violette Queen Screen SPF 50+ Luminising Serum Skinscreen ($47), a multi-tasking formula that gives normal-to-dry skin all the sun protection, plus a hit of healthy-skin luminosity.

The hair saver

Our climate is tough on hair, which is perhaps why we are a hot-bed of innovation when it comes to strand-saving treatments. Our best-known export for bringing crowns back from the brink is Eleven Miracle Hair Treatment ($24.95), a multi-tasking, leave-in vegan formula that softens, strengthens and adds shine.

A calming spritz

A genuine natural beauty pioneer, Jurlique led the way in natural skincare powered by science long before the notion became popular. For those new to the brand, its Lavender Hydrating Mist ($52) is one of the most refreshing on the market. A light misting will cool your complexion and serves as a way to reset when you feel a tad overwhelmed.

Best balmy lips

Most Australians appreciate the soothing power of lanolin, but it wasn’t until Lanolips hit the scene that it moved from a crisis-skin essential to make-up must-have. Worth adding to your make-up bag is the Hydrating Lip Luminiser ($14.95), with lanolin and vitamin E to nourish with a hint of colour.

Pink clay mask

While clay masks are nothing new, pink continues to trend in the skincare space. The reason is that it’s gentle enough for the most stressed-out skin, as well as being rich in silica, which boosts cell renewal, and minerals that help skin detox. Try Minenssey Rejuvenating Clay Mask, $79.

Lashes for days

At the height of summer, we need formulas that know their place. Tested in some gruelling circumstances, we can attest that Inika Long Lash Mascara ($45) defines every lash with rich mineral pigments.

Moistu e HIT

GOOD BODY SCENTS

On holidays, we sometimes switch out fragrance for a gorgeously scented moisturiser. Enter Lotion ($48), a fastabsorbing formula that leaves skin feeling soft and gently scented with pineapple and coconut. Handy for getting into that holiday mindset long before you hit the sand.

Heav nly YDRAT ON

THECURLREVIVER

Those with curly hair will know that a little oil goes a long

Nourishing handwash

Once you’ve cleansed hands with this gently exfoliating, botanical-packed wash, it’s almost impossible to go back. We also love that the lavender oil, which comes from Tasmania and France, has soothing properties. Saba Organics Hand Wash Lavender & Bamboo Exfoliant, $9.95.

AM antioxidant

This is an essential step for protecting skin from environmental damage and premature ageing, best applied before sunscreen. The best formulas are as hydrating as they are protective. Rationale #1 The Hydragel ($184) forms a shield against pollution and is powered by Australian botanicals.

All-natural pointers

Insiders love Kester Black nail polishes ($26 each), which are made from plant-derived ingredients and are water permeable too, meaning they allow breathability for the health of your nails. In addition to the brand’s impressive B Corp certification, the shade range is a kaleidoscope of colours and the polish long-lasting.

The radiance booster

Devotees love the tingle when applying Alpha-H Liquid Gold Midnight Reboot Serum ($129), which has glycolic acid and granactive retinoid, to make skin look brighter and smoother over time. These two superstar ingredients aren’t often combined, which is why this formula has been such a huge hit.

tive bloomsNa

The humble brown h oniaBoro is a fussy plant that is hard to grow, and only flowers for a minute n in late winter. However, the h teeny bloom carries a sweet, herby note at the h heart of Grandiflora’s

Boronia EDP ($145), B often described as o a a wild floral scent with w notes of cognac and a tobacco too.

Zero-waste wash

Pack your bathroom with heavenly scented, seriously nourishing formulas that turn a daily chore into an enjoyable ritual – and are good for the planet to boot. We’ve added Clover Fields Shampoo With a Purpose Combined Shampoo & Conditioner Bar ($16) to our supermarket list. It’s loaded with argan oil and shea butter to give dry or damaged hair a hit of

moisture and shine. AWW