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Natio has been recognised as the preferred makeup cosmetics brand by surveyed Australians in the inaugural Canstar Blue makeup and cosmetics review. 

Receiving five-star ratings for longevity, texture, packaging, value for money and overall satisfaction, Natio scored the highest overall ahead of international brands. The results were collated from 800 Australian participants surveyed who purchased cosmetics from a supermarket or pharmacy within the past 12 months. 

The announcement is a testament to the almost 30-year guiding principles driving the brand, an embodiment of the Australian spirit and lifestyle: natural, easy-going, and refreshingly real.

“For almost three decades, Natio has prided ourselves on providing customers across Australia with premium quality, cruelty free cosmetics that celebrate natural beauty and natural looks,” Natio Managing Director, Mahesh Ross said.

“This announcement is a celebration not just for us, but for our customers, whose loyalty make these achievements possible.”

Since 2010, Canstar has helped Australian consumers make better-informed purchase decisions on products and services by providing factual, up-to-date and well-researched comparison tables, ratings, reviews, guides and news of a range of consumer-related topics, including within the makeup and cosmetics sector.  

To shop some of our award-winning products, click here. 

Australia offers us a diverse landscape, a seemingly never-ending offering of unique flora and fauna. Natio has always been inspired by a deep respect for natural Australian beauty and talent. At Christmas time we all look to celebrating and embracing what matters to us most. That’s why we are so excited to share our Artist collaboration with the wonderfully talented Lamai Anne, whose magnificent Native artworks helps us to celebrate Australian and New Zealand floras this Christmas. 
Lamai is a New Zealand born, Australian raised digital artist whose signature illustrations of native gums, ferns and flowers joyfully celebrate our home’s unique beauty. Her illustrations of Australian Natives are meticulously brought to life through her digital art, and the composition between the seasons to create vivid, colourful and eye-catching pieces that bring the Australian outdoors into focus. 

We sat down with Lamai recently in her home studio, just outside of Melbourne, to meet her animals and have a chat about what inspires her most and how she translates her inspiration to capture the beauty of the world around us.  

Click here to view our Christmas Gifting range.

How do you feel to be working with Natio on its Christmas gift set collection for 2022?

I am so excited for everyone to see this collection come to life! It has been a dream to work with Natio, the collection is just so wonderful, and I can’t wait to share it with you all. 

What do you love about flora and fauna– what about it interests you?

It’s often the changing of the seasons that inspires me the most. The way a flowering gum will burst into life in summer and leave behind beautiful gum nuts by autumn. 

Are there any other things that inspire you?

I am inspired by shapes and colours of flowers, especially Australian Natives, it will either be a colour that appeals to me, or a shape of a warratah. I will take lots of photos of the one flower and develop the illustration and composition from there. I spend a lot of time putting together colour palettes, for example I will walk past a banksia and notice the beautiful dusty blues on the back of the leaves, I will put that together with lots of different contrasting colour combinations and that can be sometimes how an illustration starts. 

Which is your favourite artwork used in the Natio collection.. and why?

My favourite artwork used in the Natio Christmas collection is the flowering gum. It’s probably my favourite piece, because it started from a tree in our paddock when we moved into our property, and one summer it just flowered and it was so beautiful, the colours so rich, and that was my first Native Grace illustration, part of my Native Grace range – the flowering gum inspired me to start the range. That’s definitely my favourite. 

What does Christmas mean to you and your family?

Christmas for me, means taking some time off, spending time with family and friends, spending time in my garden and with my animals. It’s that time of year that you can really have some time to embrace and spend time with family. My fondest Christmas memory was in 2008 when I gave birth to my daughter on Christmas Eve, at 11.20pm. I got to spend Christmas day with her and that was an amazing Christmas worth treasuring.  

Where do you find beauty? 

I find beauty, in things you can often miss when you first take a glance at something, for example a flowering gum – when you first you look at it you start noticing the beautiful red stems, the beautiful shapes and intricate details, that’s where I find beauty, by really observing and looking at things closely. We are surrounded by such beautiful flora and fauna in Australia, and I love the Australian birds- parrots, cockatoos, they are so much fun to illustrate. 

Natio is proud to support a local artist and like-minded nature lover to elevate this year’s Christmas campaign. True to Natio’s origins all formulations in the gifts sets range are made in Australia. With a focus on increased sustainability all gifts are designed to last well beyond the Christmas season. 

To see more of Lamai’s artwork please visit her website below and you can experience the wonder of her talent and artwork and be inspired as we have.  

https://lamaianne.com/ 

September 9th marks the return of Mercury in retrograde for three weeks. To alleviate the extra stress that this period can often bring, we have put together the best self care products to get you through to October. Check your star sign reading below to find out more. After a full pamper session? Check your birth chart to put together a full routine!

Air Signs

Aquarius

Curious, creative and the social butterfly of the zodiac, Aquariuses are known for their light, bright and deeply quenching energy. They feel like a burst of hydration on a hot day, making Natio's Rosewater Hydration Drench Mineral Mist the perfect handbag essential.

Gemini

The life of the party, you flit between social groups with ease. You can go from a sleepover in the living room to dancing up a storm with strangers in seconds, and your friends know you need to be invited if they want a night to remember! Prepare your skin for whatever happens with Natio's Ageless Luminous Perfecting Serum, so you can glow all day and night.

Libra

Balanced, playful and sensitive, Libra's are the one's to call when you need a listening ear and an optimistic outlook. An air sign through and through, they flit through life with positive energy and bring vitality wherever they go. Natio's Clear Skin Balancing Face Oil is a must have to keep heavy oils on the skin at bay and give light nourishment.

Water Signs

Pisces

A born dreamer, your friends and family look to you to have the most soulful and intense ideas. You enjoy living life to it's fullest and feel everything with depth and sensitivity. You're perfectly matched with our Calm Delicate Care Cleansing Milk for a gentle creamy cleanse that leaves your skin soft and glowing.

Cancer

Ruled by the moon, your psychic abilities keep your circle coming back to you for more. You have an unwavering empathy for your loved ones, even strangers on the street! You move with gentleness throughout your life and never have to fight for attention, your magnetic aura pulls the right people to you. Natio's Rosewater Hydration Antioxidant Serum is the perfect daily companion to keep your skin fresh and soft to the touch.

Scorpio

The siren of the zodiac, Scorpios are known for their intensity and cheeky glints in their eyes. Nothing stops a Scorpio from getting what they want, because they work hard but play even harder! Our Ageless Extra Firming Night Cream is the perfect pair for Scorpio, acting as a portal to bright, beautiful hydrated skin from the minute they wake up so they can take on the day with strength.

Fire Signs

Aries

As the first sign of the zodiac, you own your natural born leadership with pride and splendour. Arming yourself with fiery vision, confidence and bravery, it's only fitting to adorn yourself with Natio's Intense Colour Lip Crayons to remind everyone's who's boss!

Leo

The child of the zodiac, you love all eyes on you! Whether it's leading the charge on a night out with friends, or giving your loved one's an inspiring pep talk when they're feeling down, Leos command attention wherever they go. Adorn yourself as royalty does with the perfect pout of our Sunset Red Lip Duo and claim your rightful throne, Leo!

Sagittarius 

No one's life is complete without a Sagittarius friend! They're the ones who make everyday one to remember with their funny stories and uncanny ability to find the magic in everyday. Just a touch of Natio's Southern Lights Blush & Bronze Duo feels like sparkle of a Sagittarius laugh.

Earth Signs

Taurus

Your grounding and ethereal essence makes you the go-to listening ear in your group. You are protective of your family and friends and always provide sound and impartial advice. Your daily essential would be Natio's Spirit Lemon Ironbark + Olive Hand Wash to fill your senses with the citrus and sweet aroma that makes you feel connected to nature.

Virgo

Notoriously well prepared and logical, there's no challenge you can give a Virgo that they can't solve! You like your skincare practical, easy to use and versatile - just like Natio's Nourishing Miracle Face Oil! Use this on your skin, nails or even the ends of your hair to glow gracefully through life as only you can do, Virgo.

Capricorn

The one that gets the other zodiacs in order is of course the Capricorn! They get things done with ease and know who they are and what they want. They scrub off negative comments and stress just like Natio's Wellness Body Scrub, leaving only soft skin and a clean surface behind.

Finally, that much awaited time of year has arrived – spring! Here in Australia, the flowers are blooming giving a sense of new possibilities and a new lease on life ready to say goodbye to the dull shades of Winter, and hello to the bright colours of spring. 
This time of year to many symbolises a new beginning and a time to refresh, making it the ideal time for experimentation and self-expression. Whether it be trying out bold, but wearable makeup looks or discovering a new floral scent, Natio has you sorted for embracing all that it means to be YOU this spring season.  
Here’s our top picks to help you dust off that winter chill and welcome all that the spring season has to offer:  

Sun protection

The first step after skincare for a flawless base to complete any striking makeup look, is SPF protection. As the warm weather begins to set in again, give yourself a touch of flower power with our, sunscreen skincare from our NEW Natio sun collection. Ideal for wearing under makeup, our Natio Sun Invisible Fluid Facial Sunscreen SPF 50+ is a fragrance free, lightweight, oil-free sunscreen formulated with Vitamin E and Aloe to keep your skin feeling supple and soft whilst providing a smooth (and protected) base for your makeup application.

Golden glow

For that extra ‘golden hour’ glow, apply a few drops of our Bronze Glow Perfecting Primer after our Invisible Fluid Facial Sunscreen for a natural bronze tint. This light priming serum will even out your complexion, washing away those winter blues for a ‘lit-from-within’ glow that will have your friends asking what magical elixir of life you’ve been drinking.

Luscious lips

Bring some warmth and colour back to the skin with our Lip Colour in the shade ‘Spring’. As the name suggests, this pink lip shade was purposefully designed and inspired by the beautiful, Australian flora to help you create a more lively, awakened look. To add a touch of shine and some ‘je ne sais quoi’, we recommend layering our Antioxidant Lip Shine on top of your lip colour for that extra boost of confidence. With Natio being named the number one choice for all things lips in pharmacies, and having been awarded Canstar’s five-star rating as the preferred makeup brand for 2022, you’ll have a spring in your step in no time.

Hydrated hands

After a chilly winter, your hands deserve a much-needed pick-me-up just as much as your face does. Rehydrate hardworking hands with some zesty warmth from our I Love Blood Orange Hand Cream. Our NEW I Love Citrus collection is filled with delectable scents that will have you feeling cheerful and enthusiastic about those sweet floral scents, sun rays and spring days.

A new scent awaits

There’s no better way to express yourself and bring in a new season than with a new, signature scent. Discover the elegant mix of our sweet and fragrant Eau de Toilette with the floral notes of Baie Rose and hint of earthy Patchoili from our Wild Flower Eau de Toilette for women. This instant mood-lifter melts beautifully into the skin and reveals itself throughout the day for a luxurious fragrance that gives you the ultimate feeling of femininity and grace.  

And just like that, you’re all set to refresh your look for the spring season.  

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 new Natio Sun collection has four traditional sunscreen options to choose from.

Physical Sunscreen

This sunscreen works like a shield on the skin. It sits on the surface of your skin, deflecting the sun’s rays. Zinc Oxide is the most common sun shield referred to as a Natural Mineral. Physical sunscreens offer Broad spectrum protection by sitting on the skin. Some people may select a Mineral sunscreen if they have Sensitive skin, making it a great option for children 6 months and above.

The new Natio Sun collection features a physical sunscreen option, a Clear Zinc Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50.

Physical Sunscreens – Top questions answered

How does a physical/mineral Sunscreen work?

(Differing from a Traditional Sunscreen) It works as a UV reflector rather than UV absorber like traditional sunscreens. Particles of zinc oxide reflect the UV light.

How soon can you go into the sun after application?

Around 20 minutes after the 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.

Why have you used Zinc Oxide instead of Titanium Oxide?

Titanium dioxide leaves a white film unlike the micronized zinc oxide that has been used to formulate the Clear Zinc Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50.

How does a Physical/Mineral protect from the sun rays?

It reflects the sun’s rays.

Is there a specific Zinc Oxide level to look for?

SPF 50 starts at around 20% of zinc oxide. Majority of customers prefer micronized zinc oxide (Zinc oxide can be 'micronized,' meaning it is processed into small particles, so small that the preparation appears clear when applied on the skin). 

Why is a Mineral better for sensitive skin?

Many Customers find less irritation from the mineral than from the traditional actives.

What does “reef safe” or “reef friendly” mean?

Unfortunately, the term “reef friendly” is not currently regulated. It is important to check the “active ingredients” label on the back of your sunscreen to ensure that potentially reef-harming chemicals are not present. A mineral sunscreen has been defined to not contain any ingredients known as unsafe for the reef ocean. By making sure your sunscreen does not contain oxybenzone or octinoxate; the two common UV blocking sun filters that some studies have indicated may contribute to coral bleaching.

How can I best protect my skin from the damaging effects of the sun?

Sunscreens are only one component of sun protection. To get the best result from your sun protection products always ensure that you read the label and follow the directions for use. Prolonged high-risk sun exposure should be avoided. Frequent use and re-application in accordance with the product directions are required for effective sun protection. In complement to sun protection products slip, slop, slap, seek and slide. SunSmart recommends that you Slip on clothing that covers as much skin as possible. Slop on an SPF 50 (or higher) broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen. Slap on a broad-brimmed hat that shades the face, ears and neck. Seek shade, and Slide on sunglasses that meet the Australian Standard for UV protection. 

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.

Did you forget that Father’s Day is this Sunday? Don’t fret! Our considered gifting collection is available in stores all across Australia. From grooming to skincare, or the perfect travel kit, Natio has you covered. Designed to suit the needs of every modern dad, you’re sure to find exactly what he wants this year. 

A refill for the must-haves

For the dad who has everything, stock up on the essentials he loves. Just like no man is an island, no man should go without body wash and deodorant. The Fresh Morning gift set contains a full size Natio for Men Antiperspirant Deodorant and Spice of Life Body Wash valued at AU$21.90.  

Does this sound like the perfect solution? We thought so. The Fresh Morning set is available in Australia within Myer, Target and selected pharmacies. In New Zealand you can find the set in Farmers and also in selected pharmacies.

For the jet-setter

Being on the go should never cost Dad his skin. The Ready To Go gift set is perfect for everything from a weekend away, to a business conference, or perhaps travel for an upcoming long weekend…  
Regardless of the destination, this pack is the perfect size for the jet-setter in your life. This set contains his favourite Natio for Men Face Firming Moisturiser and the new Wild Ranges for Men Shave Gel in a travel case ideal for the overnight bag or checked luggage.  

Get set and go to Chemist Warehouse, David Jones, Myer, Priceline, Target and selected pharmacies in Australia, or for New Zealand, head over to Farmers and selected pharmacies. 

Great dad? Great day!

Like the name suggests, the Great Day giftpack is the perfect way to make Dad’s day this year. Would he like a trio of daily shower essentials to awaken and refresh? Bingo.  
Boxed in premium, sustainable packaging, Great Day combines the old faithful Natio for Men Daily Face Wash with new Wild Ranges for Men Hair and Body Shower Gel and Exfoliating Bar in the collection’s masculine and fresh signature scent.  

Get the great day started by heading to David Jones, Myer, Priceline, Target and selected pharmacies in Australia, or Farmers and selected pharmacies in New Zealand.  

A gift to shave the day

Does your dad treat his beard with the utmost care? Perhaps he prefers a clean-shaven look? Regardless of his grooming habits, the Smooth Start gift set will provide nourishing care into Dad’s shave routine with protective plant-based grooming essentials formulated to leave his skin smooth, soothed and subtly scented. Valued at AU$41.85, Smooth Start contains our new full sized Wild Ranges For Men Shave Gel, Aftershave Balm and Beard Oil in a premium travel bag he’ll continue to appreciate long after the bottles are empty.  

Australian shoppers can head to David Jones, Myer, Priceline, Target and selected pharmacies to find this set while New Zealand customers can find Smooth Start at Farmers and selected pharmacies. 

Spoil him rotten

Go the extra mile and give Dad the gift of a full grooming routine this year with Natio’s Complete Set. Containing a full size Natio for Men Daily Face Wash, Natio for Men SPF50+ Face Moisturiser, Wild Ranges for Men Hair and Body Shower Gel and Shave Gel, Complete Set is exactly that – everything he could need to feel fresh this Father’s Day and every day long after. Available in a premium large hanging toiletries bag, Dad will feel particularly spoiled this year when he opens this rather than the tried and tired jocks and socks.  

Find these spoils at David Jones, Myer and selected pharmacies in Australia, or selected Farmers and pharmacies in New Zealand.  

It’s the latest look for many Australian men... there’s no denying that beards are back and naturally, now maintenance is key.  

Natio’s Wild Ranges collection includes everything a man would need to keep his facial hair, and the skin beneath in good shape. 

The Vegan Friendly beard oil helps nourish and repair hair with just 3 –5 drops a day. Packed with botanical oils, not only does it smell fresh, but will help moisturise and condition facial hair and make it easier to style. Beard oil will help reduce any irritation that might be caused by the facial hair, as well as keep the beard looking fresh and smelling sensational.  

It’s simple to apply: 

1. Apply 3 – 5 drops of the oil into the palms of your hands and rub together. It can help if the beard is still a little damp, not totally dry. Perhaps after a shower is a good time to get the process started. 
2. Massage into the skin and hairs, getting deep into the roots and infusing the skin beneath with moisture rich serum. You can brush your hands as if you are shaving, using repeated downward motions. 
3. Comb to finish – either using your fingtertips or a comb to finish the job. This will help distribute the oil evenly and complete the look. 

 There are plenty of great new products for men in Natio’s wild ranges collection. Perfect for the man on the go, they’re packed with soothing natural ingredients.  

You might also like to try: 

• Wild Ranges Shave Gel 
• Wild Ranges Aftershave Balm 
• Wild Ranges Face and Body Exfoliating Bar 
• Wild Ranges Hair And Body Shower Gel 

While many customers know they just love our new Ageless range and how it makes their skin feel, there are a number of powerful ingredients that supercharge these products that often get overlooked. 

So, we wanted to share a little about three of our favourite ingredients to help you better understand what exactly they are, and importantly, what roles they play in helping you achieve your 'best skin' at any age.

Niacinamide

What does Niacinamide do for skin? –Niacinamide is commonly known as B3, it is a water-soluble vitamin that works with your skin to help visibly minimise pores, improve uneven skin tone, soften lines and wrinkles, and diminish dullness. Niacinamide works to reduce the environmental damage because of its ability to improve skins barrier and also play a role in helping skin to repair signs of past damage. Niacinamide is a wonder ingredient as it helps renew and restore the surface of skin against moisture loss and dehydration. When ceramides become depleted over time, skin is left vulnerable to all sorts of problems, from persistent patches of dry, flaky skin to increasingly becoming extra-sensitive. Try the Ageless luminous perfecting serum to brighten and enhance your skin moisture barrier. 

Ceramides

Ceramides are lipids (fats) that are found naturally in high concentrations in the layers or our skin. They play a vital role in how your skin looks as well as helping to retain moisture, improve the protective barrier and keep skins appearance firm and plump. Two ceramide precursors—phytosphingosine and sphingolipids—have been found to help skin make more ceramides. Ceramides fall under the category of “skin-replenishing” (aka skin-identical) ingredients. Because they’re naturally a part of your skin, ceramides are ideal for all skin types—even the most sensitive, breakout-prone, or oily skin. The Ageless Radiance Day Lotion and the Ageless Plumping Renewal Serum both feature ceramides and cholesterol to help hydrate the skin, smooth the outer layer, perfect the epidermis' protective barrier, and improve elasticity. 

Plant Peptides

Amino acids or Plant Peptides are essentially fragments of proteins. Peptides essentially help reduce the loss of firmness, appearance or wrinkles, and texture changes. It helps skin bounce back as it once did, appearing more supple and bouncy. When Peptides are matched with Hyaluronate this powerhouse duo help to restore skin natural moisture. The Ageless Extra Firming Night Cream features this top-notch combination.

So, now you know a little more about just what goes into these powerful products. For more information on ingredients and how they work, be sure to jump online where we have information about all our products and how what we put into them to help you look and feel your best.

As the warmer months roll around and we start spending more time under the sun, it’s important we keep our skin protected. Here’s some handy go must haves for any home to make sure you beat the heat over the festive season.

At home prep for summer skin

Spa Papaya & Cane Sugar Gentle Body Exfoliant

This dual-action body scrub contains both fruit enzymes and exfoliating granules to make your skin silky smooth and radiant. It’s the perfect prep before tanning, shaving or to remove fake tan build up. Scrub & glow.

Spa Nourishing Botanical Body Oil

Lasting hydration in just a pump of a bottle? Maintain your tan x (natural, summer glow) and summer glow with this fast absorbing, light-weight body oil. A mix of Coconut, Rosehip and Jojoba Oils will nourish and hydrate your skin on those long hot summer nights.

Beach beauty on the go

There’s nothing better than spending a relaxing day on the beach, but as we all know, a day under the Australian sun can cause serious damage to unprotected skin.

Did you know that in order for sunscreen to be most effective you need to apply sunscreen at least 10-20 minutes before going outdoors so the sunscreen can form a proper protective layer on your skin?

For ease of application, you could try the Suncare Moisturising Sun Spray SPF 50+ which features a convenient, easy to apply spray nozzle. The Suncare Moisturising Sun Spray SPF 50+ is an ultra light sun lotion which offers very high level UVA/UVB sun protection in a handy format, ideal for use on-the-go.  Dermatologically tested, the spray is suitable for all skin types and being 4 hours water resistant, it is perfect for use by the whole family. Remember always follow the instructions on the packaging and to reapply every two hours, and more often if you’ve been sweating or have been in the water.

In addition to sun protection here’s a couple of go-to’s to help make sure your next day spent on the sand isn’t spoiled.

Rosewater Drench Mineral Face Mist Mini

Hydrate and calm stressed skin with this mini hydrating mist. This ultra fine mist contains Rosewater and Hyaluronate, so will provide lasting hydration and all day freshness – it’s cool, on the go.

Daily Defence Face Moisturiser SPF 50+

Future proof your face & body, protect against premature skin ageing and sun damage with this multipurpose SPF. This non greasy formulation provides UVA & UVB protection so skin will be covered (literally) from head to toe. Don’t be shy, apply liberally. 

Wellness Hand Cream SPF 15

Our hands are one of the first places to show signs of ageing and sun spots, so keeping them under wraps gives your body a youthful touch. Powerful antioxidant Pomegranate and SPF15 combine to regenerate, rejuvenate and brighten those hard working hands.

The slip, slop, slap message is iconic in Australia since its introduction in the 1980s and is more relevant than ever today. These days it’s all about slip (on some sun-protective clothing), slop (on a broad spectrum, water-resistant SPF 50 sunscreen), slap (on a hat), seek (shade from the sun) and slide (on some sunglasses). Making sure you apply these easy to follow directions will help you to truly enjoy your moment in the sun and the great Australian outdoors.