on the blog

Between school drop-offs, work, errands and everything in between, makeup needs to work with you, not feel like another thing on the to-do list.

If you're short on time but still like to feel fresh and a little more put together, these are the simple beauty habits and everyday products I keep coming back to. Nothing complicated or overly polished, just easy, repeatable essentials that help you feel like yourself and get out the door a little faster.

Why healthy skin is the best base you can start with

For me, healthy makeup always starts with healthy skin. When skin is hydrated and protected, everything you apply afterwards sits and wears so much better. I tend to stick to lightweight skincare that supports the moisture barrier and always finish with SPF to help protect against everyday sun damage and visible ageing. The Ageless Hydrating Face Fluid SPF 50+ has become an easy everyday staple because it feels comfortable on the skin and layers really well under makeup.

The best foundation for busy mornings

Instead of reaching for a heavier foundation, I usually go for something lighter and more natural when I'm short on time. The Pure Mineral Dream Skin CC Cream SPF 50 is one I love for busy mornings because it helps even out skin tone while still looking like skin. Just enough coverage to feel refreshed and naturally you.

I find applying it with fingers gives the quickest and most natural finish. Press the product through the centre of the face first and blend outward to keep everything light and effortless.

The two products that make the biggest difference in the least amount of time

When I'm really short on time, I focus on lashes and brows. They instantly brighten and frame the face and honestly make the biggest difference for the least amount of effort. The Precision Tubing Mascara and Mechanical Eyebrow Duo are two I reach for constantly because they're quick, easy and hold up through busy days. A little mascara worked into the roots of the lashes gives lift without clumping, and softly brushing brows upward before filling any sparse areas keeps them looking natural.

A lip product that does the work for you

I'll usually finish with a nude lip liner and a glossy lip oil in whatever shade feels good that day. Something easy that adds a bit of colour and makes you feel a little more awake, no mirror required.

The full 4-minute routine

1. Skin prep: Ageless Hydrating Face Fluid SPF 50+
2. Base: Pure Mineral Dream Skin CC Cream SPF 50
3. Lashes: Precision Tubing Mascara
4. Brows: Mechanical Eyebrow Duo
5. Lips: Nude lip liner + Glossy Lip Oil

Less than four minutes, minimal effort and just enough to help you feel fresh, confident and ready for the day ahead. Because sometimes those small moments of self-care really do make a big difference.

At Natio we are thrilled to announce our second year as an Associate Sponsor of the prestigious Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show.

As part of this sponsorship, Natio holds the naming rights to the Natio Botanical Moments Floral Design Competition in 2025. The competition will see florists and botanical creatives execute installations in a conceptual space in line with the theme “innovation", based on our brand ethos. We can't wait to see how this theme is interpreted by the talented creatives involved.

We will host a suncare education space within the beautiful Melbourne Royal Exhibition Building, where guests can learn more about sun safety and integration of SPF within your daily makeup routine.

The Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show will be hosted at the Royal Exhibition Building and Carlton Gardens from Wednesday 26th to Sunday 30th March, 2025. We hope to see you there!

See: Ceramides 

Few things in this world are certain, but one thing you can rely on is winter’s ability to disturb even the most balanced, well-maintained skin. Maybe not immediately, but certainly over time. Because when the temp drops, so does the moisture content in our skin. Add in biting winds, scalding showers and 24/7 heating and soon enough, it’s a dry skin disaster. Cue: winter weary skin that looks and feels dull, ashy and tight - at best.  

Fortunately, simple skincare formula swaps can help rescue your moisture barrier during the cold snap season (and beyond) and keep skin adequality nourished, comfortable and – even! - radiant.  How? Ceramides.  

We’ve touched on this hero ingredient before, but now – enduring the drying throes of Winter – Ceramides deserve a closer look. 

Ceramides 101  

So, what are Ceramides and what do they do? Well, they're a type of lipid (aka fat molecule) that naturally occurs in our skin cells.  Essentially, they work to help reinforce the skin’s barrier function, which is vital for keeping skin cells healthy, protecting against drying external aggressors and stopping bacteria and infections from entering the body. If you think of your skin cells as bricks, then ceramides are the mortar that bind them. They’re integral.  

And while harsh winter weather – as well as ageing, sun damage and certain skin conditions - can disrupt the natural ceramide levels in our skin (boo!), incorporating ceramides into your skincare regime can replenish levels topically (hooray!). In fact, with continued regular use of topical Ceramides in your skincare, you can expect to see and feel boosted moisture levels in as little as a week. So let’s get started. 

Ceramides Skincare Swaps  

Easy to incorporate at any – or every! - step, Ceramides can be found in a variety of skincare products, most typically moisture-focussed serums , creams/lotions and overnight balms. Though you’ll spot different types of ceramides on ingredient lists (such as Ceramide AP, NP, NG, NS or EOP, to name a few), ultimately, they all function very similarly to strengthen and support skin’s barrier. When it comes to skincare, all Ceramides are good Ceramides. And you can find them in the following Natio skincare products: 

• Treatments Plant Peptide Line & Wrinkle Serum 
• Treatments Hyaluronate Skin Hydration Serum 
• Ageless Plumping Renewal Serum  
• Ageless Radiance Day Lotion  
• Aromatherapy Extra Firming Night Time Moisture Balm 
• Aromatherapy Multi Action Neck and Decolletage Sculpting Cream 
• Treatments Skin Renewal Ceramide Line & Wrinkle Cream 
• Treatments Plant Peptide Firm & Smooth Eye Cream 

Your Guide to A Gorgeous Galentine's Day 

Love is in the air! As Valentine's Day approaches, it's a perfect time to shift the focus from romantic love to celebrating the all-important, nurturing bonds of female friendship.  

Cue: Galentine's Day, a  day dedicated to spending quality time and showering love on your gal pals - and on yourself. Self-love and bestie beauty rituals are the order of the day! This 14th Feb, take the opportunity to gather your special squad for an enjoyable and empowering session of pampering, primping and preening. 

Ladies DIY Day Spa

Book a hotel room or transform your home into a spa oasis complete with face masks and treatments, soothing music, diffused essential oils or or scented candles. Masks that cater to everyone’s different skin type will ensure that everyone gets a glowing result. Cucumber slices on eyes optional, but highly recommended for a little extra luxe. 

Mani Pedi Primping

 Take the indulgence all the way to your fingertips and toes with manicure and pedicure treatments to soften skin and prime nails for a celebratory lick of glossy colour. Keep it simple or go all the way with revitalising scrubs, nourishing oils for cuticles and nurturing foot and hand creams for the full royal treatment. 

Gorgeously Glam Glow Up

Dial up the unique natural beauty - and confidence - of each and every gal pal with a group glam-up using glow-giving, feature enhancing and beauty defining cosmetics that’ll amp up the gorgeous. From sheer and subtle to vibrant and va-va-voom, there’s a bespoke look to celebrate every beauty. 

Simply, Galentine’s Day is the perfect reminder and opportunity to celebrate the beauty of female friendship. Go ahead and gather the girls to indulge in some self-care, group pampering and the pure joy and emotional nourishment that comes from connecting with the beloved women in your life. To love! 

The summer and Christmas holiday period is fast approaching, and while this can evoke a sense of joy and gratitude, it’s fair to also feel some sense of foreboding chaos. As you put together your Christmas shopping list, be sure to “check it twice” and ensure you can tick off some well-deserved me-time. Here are some brief tips for incorporating essential oils into your holiday, for conscious wellbeing amidst the busiest time of the year.

Deck the house with aroma

The ornaments have emerged from storage and the rolls of gift wrap have started to pile up, how can you quickly return your home to a space of tranquility? Diffusing essential oils could be a quick solve.

Stressed? Look to Chamomile, Mandarin and Lavender to soothe the mind. The Natio Relax blend inspires a sense of calm. Breathe deep and take a moment to ground yourself in the benefits of this gentle aromatherapy blend.

Fatigued? Bright notes of Bergamot and Nutmeg work to awaken the mind and support a sense of vitality in the Natio Energy Blend. If you are feeling overwhelmed and need to declutter your brain, this is the perfect blend to offer some sense of clarity.

Not fatigued enough? Perhaps in the leadup to Christmas you’re struggling to doze off, your mind wandering with the lists of tasks still to be complete. The Natio Sleep Blend helps to relieve tension and promote restful sleep with a blend of Lavender, Bergamot and Chamomile.

For a customised aromatherapeutic experience, you can create your own essential oil blend. Simply add a combination of your preferred Pure Essential Oils to a diffuser and allow the aromas to drift you to a space of tranquility.

On the go essentials

The holiday season isn’t just within the home, and at Natio we understand that stress, tension and holiday fatigue can hit at any time. We have a range of convenient Roll On Blends, perfect for on the go aromatherapy support. Tucked into a handbag, or kept in your glove compartment, these 10ml vials are the perfect little helper you need while running errands this summer.

Give the gift of relaxation

Everyone deserves a moment of peace this holidays, give a loved one the gift of aromatherapy with our Peaceful Duo Gift Set. Part of our Christmas gifting collection, the set boasts two roll-on essential oils - Sleep and Stress - in a premium bamboo organiser with a mirror – a thoughtful gift for creating a space of tranquility.

Alternatively, if your loved one enjoys the comforts of candlelight, our Festive Spirit Gift Set comprises a large triple wicked candle scented with indulgent Caramel, Coconut and Cedarwood, the perfect fragrance to fill the home this Christmas.

Sydney, Australia. A stunning city with a seamless blend of natural beauty and adventure. It’s also where I grew up and lived most of my life until moving down to Melbourne. I love my home city and want to help you uncover the best of it, so here is a list of all my favorite things to do.   

Have a dip in the ocean pools  

Sydney’s ocean pools are cherished havens for locals. Start your day with a refreshing swim at Bronte Baths or savor a relaxing dip at Wylie’s Baths. The rhythmic sound of waves crashing against the pools edges creates a harmonious ambiance that encapsulates the essence of our coastal lifestyle.  

Wander through the Art Gallery of NSW  

You will find the Art Gallery of NSW in most Sydney travel guides, yet it is also a much-loved place for locals seeking solace and inspiration. Particularly the modern wing, which has recently opened and boasts rooftop art terraces and courtyards. The new wing is beautifully built into Wolloomooloo’s natural landscape, following the slope of the hill its built into.   

Wendy Whitleley’s Secret Garden  

A hidden gem in Lavender Bay. With lush greenery, including a massive Australian fig tree (you’ll find these trees all over Sydney!), artistic sculptures and a gorgeous view of the blue harbour, it’s a special oasis - perfect for a leisurely scenic walk.   

Stroll through Potts Point Markets  

Held every Sunday, Potts Point markets has delicious food and a diverse array of vintage and handcrafted treasures. My personal favorite are the fresh juices and Portuguese tarts! Once you’ve enjoyed all the stores, take a stroll down the hill to Rushcutters Bay.  

Snorkel at Gordons Bay  

A secluded gem between Clovelly and Coogee, Gordons Bay is a peaceful escape from the tourist crowds around Bondi. Bring your goggles and witness the captivating marine life beneath its calm crystal clear waters. Over the summers, I’ve seen stingrays, wobbegongs, blue gropers, starfish, nudibranch and many tropical fish! 

Royal Botanical Gardens  

Another I’m sure you’ve seen in all the Sydney guides, but it’s always been my natural refuge right in the heart of the city so I couldn’t pass on adding it to my list. Bring a picnic and bask in the views of the Harbour Bridge and Opera House while surrounded by native Australian plants. If you stay until dusk, don’t forget to look up and watch all the bats flying above!  

Alibi Bar and Dining  

Ask any local of the best place to eat in Woolloomooloo and they’ll be quick to tell you - Alibi Bar and Dining at the Ovolo Hotel. In fact, when writing this post, I texted my sister asking her favourite place to eat in Woolloomooloo and she even suggested it too! Known as Sydney’s conservatory of green, it exudes a sense of natural, both in the fit out and plant based food.  

That’s why we’re so excited that Natio has partnered with Ovolo Hotels to offer you the chance to win an unforgettable three-night getaway for two at Ovolo Woolloomooloo, and over AU$500 worth of Natio products! 

Want to experience Sydney's beauty first-hand? Enter the luxury getaway competition here.

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.”  

Skincare routines can take what feels like eons to get right, but once you have mastered it, your skin will thank you! When putting your New Year resolutions into practice, consider how you can use this time to focus on setting new good habits for your skin in 2023 – there's no better time than the present.

Clean up after the party

 If you woke up on New Year’s Day with smudged mascara from the night before, you’re not alone. Most of us are guilty of occasionally forgetting to take makeup off after a night out  on the town. Make this the year to quit wearing makeup to bed and master your evening skin routine. You don’t need a seven-step regime every night, however it's important to remove product build up and grime before hitting the hay.

For a quick cleanse, soak a washable pad in Micellar Cleansing Water and wipe gently across your entire face. This doesn’t have to be followed up with a cleanser or toner; a moisturising cream like the Ageless Extra Firming Night Cream should be enough to keep you hydrated until morning – there’s a reason this cream is award winning! In an ideal world, a full nightly routine would be fantastic, but after a party, we know this isn’t always the reality. 

Sun safe year round 

We might sound like a broken record here, but it’s true – sun protection applies to every day of the year. While it may be gloomy and overcast outside, that doesn’t mean you’re immune to sun damage from UVA/UVB rays. For double duty sun protection and hydration, a day cream with SPF included is the best solution. The Rosewater Hydration Moisture Balance Day Cream SPF 50+ provides two-in-one protection with nourishing plant extracts to keep skin supple and shielded from sun damage. Don’t forget to protect the neck too – this skin is particularly fragile and deserves as much love as your face does. 

The best trend? No trends 

It’s easy to fall victim to the constant cycle of beauty trends, and while those bleached eyebrows will eventually grow back, it’s important to consider your skincare routine needs before throwing a concoction of random chemicals onto your precious skin. It can be tempting to try every treatment under the sun; however many active ingredients don’t agree with each other and should not be used in conjunction within a morning or evening skincare routine.

Since its inception 30 years ago, Natio has followed the guiding principle that nature nurtures best. It's for this reason that our products today still harness the healing and rejuvenating plant nutrients that are tried and true. If you are looking to revamp your skincare routine and would prefer to opt for positive results rather than trendy ingredients, try taking the Skincare Finder quiz. This quick questionnaire will help ascertain your key needs and provide a morning, evening and treatments routine in just a few minutes. 

Self care everywhere

If there is one thing we’re keeping in mind this year, it’s that self-care is more than just a face mask and candles. Self-care should be a holistic routine that includes the whole body. Be sure to treat dry legs to a rejuvenating exfoliation with the Spa One Minute Body Polish, followed with a hydrating Spa Coconut & Shea Body Butter to leave skin refreshed year round. Also don’t forget to give your elbows some love!     

Your mind works hard every day too, so when you decide to do a pampering night at home, take some extra time for mindfulness to truly rest and rejuvenate. To assist, diffuse some essential oils, play some relaxing, meditative music and drift into a space of tranquility and calm. 

Ultimately all skincare routines change with your lifestyle, and like all good habits, they take practice to get it just right. Don’t be too hard on yourself and take time to find what works for you. Keep in mind the Natio guiding principle as you head into the new year: Love being you.