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Some skincare ingredients are trend-driven. Aloe is not one of them. 

Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice—better known as Aloe Vera Juice—has been a skin saviour for generations (and a Natio favourite ingredient for over 30 years).  And while it might not be the flashiest name on an ingredient list, Aloe's benefits are anything but basic. 

Soothing, Hydrating & Dependably Gentle 

Starting with the obvious, Aloe is a well known go-to for calming and hydration. Extracted from the inner pulp of the Aloe Vera plant’s thick, fleshy leaves, the juice is made up largely of water, making it a natural moisture magnet. For this reason, Aloe has become a staple in Natio formulas designed to replenish dry or irritated skin, and it is especially heroic for post-sun or post-exfoliation. Comfort-wise, Aloe is a winner as its cooling, refreshing, lightweight moisture doesn’t sit heavily or leave skin greasy (a trait which is especially welcome during hot and humid months). 

Also... *More* Than Hydration 

Here’s where Aloe really earns its gold star. Beyond hydration, Aloe brings a quiet power to your routine loaded with vitamins A, C and E, plus enzymes and amino acids, all of which help support the skin’s natural renewal process. Translation? Used over time, skin feels smoother, looks calmer and holds onto that healthy, post-facial kind of glow. Yes, yes and yes please. 

Versatile Vera  

Another of Aloe’s biggest strengths is its versatility. Sensitive skin? It soothes. Oily skin? It hydrates without clogging. Sunburnt, stressed, or just out of balance? Aloe steps in to soothe without drama. This versatility is why you’ll find Aloe across all kinds of formulas - from soothing gels to hydrating masks, moisturising treatments and moisturisers, gentle toners and even nurturing sunscreens.  

Whether you're a skincare minimalist or enthusiastically ten serums deep, Aloe Vera is one of those ingredients that plays well with others and just works. It’s gentle, natural and always welcome - especially when your skin needs a refresh. Without a doubt, Aloe is a Natio favourite and a botanical superstar - with love from us to you.  

Seasonal Pro Tip: 

This summer, keep an Aloe-based gel or mist in the fridge and your skin will thank you after a long day (or a little too much sun).  

If you’ve ever wondered why some products work for your skin and others don’t - don’t worry, you’re not alone! It can be overwhelming trying to digest all of the skincare advice that's thrown at you from every angle. But here’s the truth: the reason your skincare works amazingly for your friend skin but doesn't for you, is simple because it all comes down to understanding the layers of your skin and how they actually work. 

I hear you ask, “but what are the different layers of my skin?”. 

The structure of your skin is made up of three different layers:  

1. The epidermis layer  
2. The dermis layer 
3. The hypodermis layer  

Each layer of your skin plays a different, vital role in ensuring your skin is protected, hydrated and supported. When you understand the basics, finding the right products for your skin and nailing your routine becomes a lot less confusing (and expensive!). 

Let’s break down each layer so you can find the perfect Natio product to help keep your skin looking and feeling its best!  

The Epidermis Layer 

To put it simply, the epidermis layer is the protective outer layer of your skin and the home of your skin barrier.  

This is the surface layer that you can see and feel daily. Within your epidermis layer sits the skin barrier (also known as the stratum corneum) which is made of lipids and proteins that lock in hydration and protect against irritants. Taking care of your skin barrier is honestly one of the best things you can do for your skin, especially as you get older.

When your skin barrier is strong, your skin feels smooth, plump, and calm. When your skin barrier is under stress, you’re more prone to flakey, dull and sensitive skin.  

How Do You Actually Support Your Skin Barrier?  

To support your skin barrier, focus on the basics: use a gentle cleanser, keep your skin well hydrated, look for ingredients that strengthen barrier lipids, wear SPF to prevent damage, and exfoliate 2-3 times a week to keep cell turnover on track.

Products to Use: 

• Calm Gentle Care Hydrating Lotion - helps reduce surface irritation with Cucumber and Chamomile extracts that work to soothe, while Shea Butter and Sodium Hyaluronate deeply hydrate and help restore skin's natural moisture barrier
• Aromatherapy Gentle Foaming Facial Cleanser - as with the name, this gentle cleanser gently lifts away impurities without disrupting the epidermis or stripping the skin
• Aromatherapy Daily Defence Face Moisturiser SPF 50+ - delivers lightweight hydration while defending the epidermis with broad-spectrum SPF 50+, helping protect the skin barrier from UV-driven dryness, dullness and irritation
• Aromatherapy Skin Brightening Liquid Exfoliant - gently refreshes the skin’s surface with a blend of AHAs and BHAs that support natural cell turnover, helping to smooth texture and clear away buildup without stripping

When your skin is looking a little lackluster or feeling sensitive, this is often your epidermis layer singing out for help! 

The Dermis Layer 

The dermis layer of your skin sits beneath the epidermis and is packed with things like collagen, elastin, and blood vessels. These all keep your skin looking lifted and fresh. As we age over time, the dermis layer begins to thin and becomes more vulnerable due to things like sun exposure and other lifestyle factors.  

If your mission is to combat fine lines and maintain “bouncy” looking skin, the dermis layer needs to be your main focus. 

What Should You Do to Support Your Dermis Layer? 

Using sun protection every day, applying restorative, hydrating ingredients at night when your skin goes into “repair mode,” and choosing antioxidant-rich skincare all make a big difference. When you support your dermis with these habits (along with ensuring you get adequate beauty sleep and prioritise H20) you’ll notice fewer visible signs of ageing.

Products to Use: 

• Glow 24/7 Hydrating Water Cream - formulated with Hyaluronate, Shea Butter, Vitamins E and C to plump, while brightening cellular extracts of Kakadu Plum, Pomegranate and Goji Berry, leave skin feeling supple and "bouncy"
• Ageless Daily Moisturiser UV Protection SPF 50+ - protects from UV damage, which slows the dermal collagen breakdown and helps prevent the premature visible signs of ageing
• Ageless Extra Firming Night Cream - supports your skin’s nighttime repair cycle with antioxidant rich Rosehip and Vitamin C
• Restore Antioxidant Face Serum - offers antioxidant support to help defend dermal structures from environmental stress

The Hypodermis Layer 

The hypodermis layer of your skin is the deepest layer, made up of fat cells and tissue. This layer works to cushion, insulate and work in harmony with the other two layers. While skincare can’t actually penetrate deep enough to reach this layer, what you do on the surface absolutely influences its long term health – especially when it comes to sun exposure.  

How To Protect Your Hypodermis Layer 

Long term sun protection, keeping your epidermis hydrated, and supporting a strong, balanced skin barrier are all essential for healthy skin. Think of it like a cake - you can have beautiful icing and decorations, but it won’t mean much if the cake underneath isn’t solid and delicious!

Products to Use: 

• Invisible Fluid Facial Sunscreen SPF 50+ - lightweight SPF 50+ protection helps shield the deeper skin layers from long-term UV stress, while keeping the skin's surface comfortable
• Invisible Mist Sunscreen SPF 50+ - a lightweight SPF 50+ mist specifically designed for easy reapplication throughout the day, helping maintain consistent UV protection across the upper layers of the skin to reduce long term stress on the hypodermis layer

Understanding These Layers to Build a Simple Routine 

Once you understand how your skin is structured, skincare stops feeling like guesswork. You’ll know exactly what each layer needs for long term health and how to respond when your skin is asking for help.

When the epidermis and skin barrier are strong, your skin holds moisture better, irritation is reduced, and your products absorb more effectively; when the dermis is supported, skin looks smoother and firmer, fine lines soften, and recovery improves; and when the hypodermis is protected, skin maintains its natural cushioning over time.

Follow our simple routine using the recommended products above to support all three of your skin's layers:

Morning

1. Gentle cleanser
2. Antioxidant-rich serum
3. Hydrating moisturiser
4. SPF 50+

Night

1. Gentle cleanse (double cleanse if wearing makeup or SPF)
2. Treatment serum to support renewal
3. Nourishing night cream

Weekly

• Liquid, chemical exfoliant 2-3 times a week to lift expired skin cells and encourage healthy turnover

Once you understand how the layers of your skin work together, you realise skincare really doesn’t need to be complicated! When you treat your skin barrier as the main character, your routine suddenly feels a lot clearer and way more effective. That’s why at Natio, we keep things simple, using ingredients that harness the power of nature to work with your skin’s layers, not against them.

*Always read the label and follow the directions for use. Sunscreens are only one component of sun protection. Prolonged high-risk sun exposure should be avoided. Frequent use and reapplication in accordance with directions if required for effective sun protection.

A Precious Jewel for Gorgeously Glowing Skin 

If you’ve ever cracked open a pomegranate, you already know - this fruit is special. Bright, jewel-like seeds. A bold, vibrant red. An energy that feels ancient and alive. But beyond its superfood status, pomegranate – particularly its seed oil - is a super skinfood ingredient, purifying, protecting and powerfully radiance-boosting.  

Enjoying more than a mere moment in skincare, pomegranate has earned a place as a reliable mainstay in high quality, plant-based skincare formulas like ours at Natio.  

Here’s why: 

Antioxidants, Perfectly Potent 

Pomegranate Seed Oil isn’t just another plant extract with a health halo. It’s loaded with powerful antioxidants - polyphenols and ellagic acid among them - that go to work on free radicals, those unstable molecules that contribute to premature skin ageing. 

The result? A real line of defence against things like UV exposure, pollution and daily skin stress. Think: less dullness, softer lines, better bounce. 

A Superfruit, For All Skins  

While pomegranate has become a go-to for mature skin thanks to its revitalising properties, its benefits go far beyond wrinkle prevention. The oil also holds gentle astringent and purifying qualities, making it just as relevant for blemish-prone skin types. It’s a rare thing: both hydrating and detoxifying. Then there’s punicic acid - a name you probably haven’t heard but should know. It’s an omega-5 fatty acid found in pomegranate seed oil that supports skin repair and calms inflammation, making this a power ingredient for skin that’s stressed, sensitised or simply tired as well. 

A Magical, Multi-Faceted Jewel 

A treasured addition to almost any routine, whether you’re focused on glow, prevention or repair, Pomegranate Seed Oil is one of those ingredients that quietly does the most: protects, soothes, refines and restores. More than hype, Pomegranate offers centuries-old natural wisdom, backed by modern science.  

At Natio, you’ll find pomegranate featuring in a glowing selection of beautycare formulas that aim to do more than just moisturise, also focussing on barrier support, healthy luminosity and overall skin vitality.  

Special mentions: Natio’s Wellness hand and bodycare range and new Glow skincare range most enthusiastically harness and celebrate Pomegranate’s protective and radiance-boosting antioxidant powers, for glow-giving goodness from the tips of your fingers to the tip of your nose. 

If your skin’s  feeling a little flat, Pomegranate might just be the reset you’re looking for... 

I think we can all relate to it being that time of year where your work and personal life is super busy and all you can think about is being able to kick your feet up and relax over the holiday season. The excitement is starting to bubble up and maybe, like me, you just can’t help yourself from starting to plan Christmas.

'Tis the season to soak up the sun, spend quality time with your friends and family and show your loved ones how much you appreciate them with one of the 5 love languages, gifts.

The only downfall? Having to ball on a budget whilst finding the perfect gift.

But there is no need to worry, receiving gifts isn’t about the monetary value it’s about the symbolic value that you know them, care for them, and understand them.  That’s why I’ve put together a list of all my favourite Natio gift sets (under $20!) that I will be gifting to those that I love and that you can too.

Mother/Mother-In-Law/Grandmothers

Starting off strong with one of the hardest groups of people to buy for, Christmas gifts for your mother, mother-in-law or grandmother.

I don’t know about you but when my mum wants something, she’ll usually just buy it. Which does NOT make gift-giving any easier. That’s why I am going to buy her something to show her I appreciate how much she does for me and remind her to look after herself too.

The Gentle Gift Set ($14.95) is perfect. It will remind her to carve time out of her day to have some ‘me-time’ OR give you a good excuse to spend some quality time with her whilst giving her a relaxing and rejuvenating hand massage and manicure. The gift set features a Aromatherapy Antioxidant Hand & Nail Cream 100ml and 2 in 1 emery board that will hydrate, soothe and shape her hands. Alternatively, you can give her the Admired Gift Set ($24.95), featuring a subtle pretty pink nail colour in the shade Peony, alongside the Rosewater Hydration Moisture Rich Hand & Nail Cream to create the perfect the manicure.  

Father/Father-In-Law/Grandfathers

Next up is the perfect gift for the father/father-in-law. Personally, my dad does not go shopping, he still wears the same shirt he got given as a present 10 years ago. This makes my job a little easier when buying him presents, it’s as much what does he need as it is what does he want. That’s why this year my personal favourite is the Clean Gift Set ($16.95). Not only does is feature a Daily Face Wash that cleans dirt and grime, perfect for an outdoorsy man (my dad’s a farmer so is essential for him) it includes a facial cleansing brush, so they can really give their face a good clean.

Girl Friends/Girlfriends/Sisters

When thinking about what to get my sister and my besties, I know it’s got to be good. They have been through the ups and downs with me, seen me at my worst (more than once) and still love me. I want something that screams I see you and I love you, but I don’t want to go broke in doing so.

Whether it’s the entire present, or a small addition this year my top pick is the Bubbly Gift Set. For only $9.95 it gives "I see you (and your current beauty blender that is in no state to be using) and I love you (so please take care of your beautiful skin)". It also acts as an adorable Christmas decoration that they will use and LOVE. The gift set is not one, not two, but three beauty blenders all with their own purpose, a Complexion Perfection Foundation Sponge, Teardrop Application Sponge and Angled Teardrop Blending Sponge.

Boy Friends/Boyfriends/Brothers

I’m pretty sure my little brother will be gifting me just a hug for Christmas this year (if I’m lucky), but nonetheless I still want to get him something special and let me tell you that is not an easy task. However, after doing some deep-diving I’m pretty sure I’ve cracked the code with this, it’s giving them something that they probably may not think of getting for themselves but need and will appreciate.

The Suave Gift Set ($14.95) is perfect. Not only will the Natio for Men Smooth Shave Gel and shave brush be practical and used multiple times a week, but will make their life easier and quite literally smoother. It’s a way to show the boys in your life you care about them but also something they will use and appreciate.

Kris Kringle/Secret Santa

What do get when you don’t know what to get? How do you know what to buy when you don’t know who you are buying for? Kris Kringle and Secret Santa presents are hard, there is no denying that. However, I am here to save the day, not only is this perfect for anyone to receive, it’s also super affordable.

The Joy Gift Set ($16.95) is my go-to when I don’t know what to go for. It includes the perfect and practical pairing of the Wellness Shower and Bath Gel and a body loofah. The set is packed with the antioxidant goodness of pure Pomegranate and smells amazing.

Personally this is making me even more excited for Christmas, with finding the perfect presents out of the way, any stress Christmas may include is GONE. I can’t wait to see everyone’s faces when I give them their Christmas gifts!

So, it’s almost summer and you are ready to rock a UV-free glow. Natio Tan calls upon natural plant-derived DHAs as well as nourishing plant extracts to deliver results. Before you lather on our natural tanning products, let’s deep dive into the range’s key ingredients and their benefits for your skin.

Natural DHA

The main tanning agent in Natio Tan products is plant-derived DHA (dihydroxyacetone). DHA is an active that causes a chemical reaction with amino acids in dead skin cells, on the surface layer of the skin. This is called the Maillard reaction and results in the creation of compounds called melanoidins (brown pigments that mimic a tan).

Our skin is constantly shedding dead skin cells, which means a sunless tan will typically last around 5-7 days. See below for maintenance tips and tricks.

Aloe Vera

Soothing Aloe Vera (Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice) is found in both the Bronzing Glow Gradual Tanning Lotion and the Radiant Glow Facial Tan Water. This soothing succulent has hydrating and anti-inflammatory properties when applied topically to skin. Some of Aloe Vera’s proven benefits include reducing skin irritation and promoting the growth of new skin cells.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E (Tocopheryl Acetate) is a powerful antioxidant that works by protecting your cells from oxidative damage by neutralising harmful molecules called free radicals. It has long been a staple in ingredient in dermatology and is known to improve the skin’s barrier. You’ll find this vitamin in both our self-tanner and our tanning water.

Shea Butter

Our gradual tanning lotion includes Shea Butter (Butyrospermum Parkii Butter). This is a plant-based emollient, which is derived from the nuts of the African Vitellaria paradoxa tree. The rich tree nut oil in shea butter soaks into skin and creates a protective barrier to seal in moisture.

The Natio team recommends these best practices for an even tan application:

• Exfoliate and moisturise 24 hours prior
• Remove any unwanted hair 48 hours prior to avoid tan from settling into open pores, resulting in a blotchy tan or uneven tan
• Use application tools such as a mitt or body buffing brush
• Remove tan residue from nails and undersides of hands once you’ve finished your application
• Avoid applying perfume, deodorant or makeup directly after application
• Exfoliate and moisturise your body as needed to ensure your tan fades naturally
  
  

The Non-Negotiable Cosmetics Cull 

Introducing our new Natural Australian Beauty range where creating your perfect look is as easy as clicking colours into place. Our innovative clickable eyeshadow palettes bring a playful twist to beauty customisation. Think of it as "girl lego" meets "girl maths" - an affordable way to build your own bespoke palette, mixing and matching shades that speak to your unique aesthetic. Now you can play with colours and create looks that are authentically, naturally you.

We spoke to Eliza, the Product Developer for this colour collection range to find out the inspiration for the design of the products and other key considerations that was put into the range.

What sparked the Natural Australian Beauty vibe? Tell us about the aesthetic that started it all.

“This collection was influenced by the palette of Australia's natural landscapes and vibrant flora. We were inspired by shimmering golden sands, cool ocean blues, soft floral pink and deep purple nightscapes. We wanted to create a diverse range of shades, that offered both soft, wearable tones for everyday looks and bolder hues for night-time glam. Beyond capturing the colours of Australia's natural scenery, this collection was thoughtfully curated to cater to a variety of personal styles and flares.”

We’re obsessed with the clickable eyeshadows. It’s such a fun twist on traditional palettes! How did this beauty-meets-building-blocks concept come to life?

“Cosmetic colour preferences can vary so much from person to person! So, we set out to create a versatile range of shades, so everyone can find the exact colours they love. When travelling we know that carrying a full-sized eyeshadow palette just for a few favourite shades isn't always practical. That's where our clickable Single Eyeshadows come in! They're compact, customisable and perfect for on-the-go touch ups. Individual shades help to reduce consumption and avoid unnecessary waste, ensuring customers can intentionally purchase shades they’re missing from their collection.”

Speaking of sustainability, we love how the range lets people build exactly what they need with no waste, just their perfect shades. Were there other mindful choices woven into Natural Australian Beauty?

"Not only did we consider our single pan eyeshadows, but our Nail Polishes are plant based, containing over 75% natural origin ingredients. They are formulated without 10 commonly known nail polish toxins too! The range ultimately was made with customisation in mind so our beloved Natio customers can mix, match & make it their own!"

Are there any other Easter Eggs hidden in this collection customers should know about?

"Your favourite lipstick shades have inspired our lip tints! If you're a fan of Beauty, you'll love Opal. Love our best selling lip colour Chai? Our nude lip tint will be the perfect hue for you. And if you love a darker shade, our lip tint Plum is similar to our lip colour in Delight." 

You can now shop our Natural Australian Beauty range online or in-store at your local pharmacy or department store.

Regardless of whether you prefer a traditional or physical sunscreen, SPF is a paramount protector of skin from the sun's rays. To help clarify some of the vast information out there, and debunk some of the mistruths, here are some key facts to keep in mind when selecting your sun protection.

Traditional Sunscreen

This sunscreen works as a sponge, absorbing the sun’s UVA/UVB rays, converting the rays into heat, and releasing them from the body. Many active chemical compounds work together to create the sponge effect. Traditional sunscreens penetrate the epidermis and dermis. This formulation is easier to rub into skin without leaving a white residue.

The Natio Sun collection has seven traditional sunscreen options to choose from, offering very high broad-spectrum protection with a lightweight feel.

Traditional Sunscreens – Top questions answered

How does a traditional sunscreen work?
It absorbs UV rays like a sponge, converting them into heat before they can cause damage.

How soon can you go into the sun after application?
Around 20 minutes after application as a general guide.

How often do you need to re-apply?
Every 2 hours and after every swim, towel dry or heavy sweating.

What makes traditional sunscreen a great everyday option?
They blend smoothly into skin, feel light and comfortable, and don’t leave a white cast.

How can I best protect my skin from the damaging effects of the sun?
Sunscreens are only one component of sun protection. For the best result, always read the label and follow the directions for use. Avoid prolonged high-risk sun exposure, and follow the SunSmart guidelines: Slip on protective clothing, Slop on an SPF 50 (or higher) broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen, Slap on a broad-brimmed hat, Seek shade, and Slide on sunglasses.

*Always read the label and follow the directions for use.  Sunscreens are only one component of sun protection.  Prolonged high-risk sun exposure should be avoided.  Frequent use and re-application in accordance with directions is required for effective sun protection.