This big old slab of sun-cracked earth may stretch us out into the far corners of the continent, but it doesn’t mean we’re disconnected. Aussies have copped our fair share of struggles of late, but we’ve proven time and time again that we’re ready to lend a hand when the going gets tough. As the 2020 gifting season approaches, give twice this Christmas by choosing to Buy From The Bush. more
Since COVID-19 reared its ugly head, an estimated 20 million plastic sanitiser bottles have made their way to landfills or our oceans. Whilst it's of paramount importance to keep those mitts clean and germ-free, the increased reliance on single-use plastics is not particularly great news for the environment. Thankfully, there's hope – or should we say Hoap – it's hand hygiene, reimagined. more
Whilst a lot of skincare ranges are aesthetically pleasing, sometimes they don't get to the root of the problem. That's where tbh. skincare comes in. This science-first skincare line is formulated with a patented technology – XBIO – that effectively kills the acne-causing bacteria that lies within your skin. Stress breakouts sorted. more
Let’s just all agree that this year has been a pretty wild ride, which has probably (definitely) taken a toll on your soul and left your skin looking and feeling a little bit ordinary. The importance of carving out time for self care during times of increased stress cannot be understated – it’s not only good for your physical wellbeing but it’s imperative to keep your emotional and mental health in check. Sure, there are an abundance of day spas and salons within close proximity to your house but sometimes the very act of getting in the car and driving out of town for the day can be relaxing in itself. With that in mind, we’ve rounded up some excellent day spas in Southeast Queensland and beyond so you can truly make a day (or night) of it – massages, facials, treatments, coffee, and most importantly, time to yourself – sounds pretty darn great to us! more
It is widely understood that fashion is the second most polluting industry in the world (the first is oil, just in case you were wondering) but what isn't as straight forward is where or how to start your conscious shopping journey. One of the reasons for this is that the term 'sustainable fashion' is inherently loaded and to borrow from the beloved green ogre Shrek, it's like an onion in that there are many layers. To help you navigate the minefield, retailer David Jones has joined the likes of Net-A-Porter and The Iconic to launch a platform dedicated to share the stories behind conscious brands and makers to make it easier than ever to shop better. more
Last week, we compiled five (hopefully) helpful ways to reduce the amount of plastic in your life. If you missed it, you can take a peek here and look, we don't want to rehash all of the grim details but the sad truth is that almost every piece of plastic ever created still exists in some form today. By 2050, reports indicate that the oceans could have more plastic than fish – let that sink in for a moment. Given its widespread use in literally every facet of life, reducing your plastic consumption can feel pretty overwhelming at the start – a feeling that Rachel Sebastian knows all too well. In fact, it was this exact sense of unease that motivated her to create Zilch – an online marketplace committed to turning your daily routine into a plastic-free one. more
Self-care has been a major theme this year. Slowing down, taking the time to listen to our needs and indulging in the little things has kept us somewhat sane in the past few months. This also relates to our skincare routine – whether you have a ten-step regimen that you undertake morning and night, or your routine consists of brushing your teeth and a splash of water on your face, taking some me-time is important now more than ever. That's where sustainable-skincare makers Peggy Sue steps in. The Australian owned-and-operated brand sells a luscious range of eco-friendly self-care products, so you can take time to look after you and the world at large. more
Okay, so you've posted a black tile on your Instagram, but what now? Florence Nightingale said it best when she said "I think one's feelings waste themselves in words; they ought all to be distilled into actions which bring results." Sharing or liking a post on social media or declaring #BlackLivesMatter is a start but it's not enough – it's time to turn intentions into impact and use your privilege to affect positive change. One small but tangible way you can do that is to support local businesses that are Indigenous owned and operated, or are in support of local Aboriginal communities in Australia. Over the next few weeks, we will bring you a range of businesses across categories including (and not limited to) Aboriginal art, apparel and jewellery so you can continue your commitment to listening, learning and supporting. Remember, we all have a long way to go to become anti-racist… more
There are lots of examples of how society can change behaviours and improve livelihoods, so the tools already exist for how we minimise the impact of these issues and improve ocean health ...~ Dr. Chris Gillies more
If you subscribe to the less-is-more philosophy when it comes to makeup and skincare, you'll find your cosmetic kindred in Molly Dunkle from dunkle authentic. Molly spends her days handcrafting a curated collection of lipsticks, foundations and face oil from her new studio space on California Lane, and if you've ever wondered what goes into making your makeup, here's your chance to find out. more
Do you remember when a cleanser, toner and moisturiser constituted a skincare routine? These days, we're conditioned to believe we need a complex 26-step regime of lotions and potions to treat every possible skin condition from pores to premature ageing. If you're feeling overwhelmed or are suffering from product fatigue, there's a new Australian skincare label that is pioneering a nifty two-step routine that is right up your alley. more
The ongoing catastrophic Australian bushfires have left us all feeling helpless, but the overwhelming number of generous individuals and businesses stepping up to support the victims and our firefighters – whether it be by donating funds, spreading awareness, volunteer efforts or fundraising – is nothing short of an amazing feat. Through tough times such as these, our Aussie spirit of kindness and generosity never ceases to prevail. Here is a list of homegrown brands and labels that are donating part (or all) of their sales profits to the Bushfire Disaster Appeal and related charities. more
We all know that plastic isn't so fantastic, but in Australia 5.3 million consumers – that is 27.1-percent of the population – purchase single-use plastic bottles on a weekly basis. Most of which, let's be honest, are destined for landfill, where it can take between 20 and 1000 years to degrade. If that makes you feel all of the things, you're not alone – but together we can make small changes that have a big impact. One of the easiest changes we can make is to switch to a shampoo bar from Shampoo With A Purpose once your current supply runs dry. more
It’s important to love the skin you’re in, but it can be difficult when that skin is dealing with cystic acne or hyperpigmentation. Sometimes we need a little extra help getting to the L-word stage with our complexions. Unfortunately, in the search for that help, we can quickly find ourselves buried in advice about ten-step skincare routines and bone-broth diets. It’s enough to bring on a breakout – not ideal. In an effort to save you all of that trouble, we’ve put together a few simple tips to help you get healthy, glowing skin. more
Let's talk periods for a moment (we'll just give the gents who accidentally clicked on the story a second to make a hasty exit). While we here in Australia have things largely sorted when it comes to our monthly visits from Aunty Flo, the heartbreaking truth is that 30-percent of girls in developing countries will drop out of school once they start having periods. Furthermore, far too many reproductive complications stem from the lack of appropriate menstrual health care and education. TABOO is a social enterprise turning the tide on period poverty. more
It's probably not something you've spent too much time thinking about, but if you were to take a peek at the ingredients list of your deodorant you might be perturbed to find some pretty heavy ingredients in the mix. We're talking everything from aluminium chlorohydrate to triclosan (the antibacterial chemical used to kill odour-causing germs on the skin) and phthalates galore. The good news is that Melbourne's APHA.LAB has crafted an all-natural alternative that actually works! more
Environmentally conscious folks have long struggled with a dilemma: be kind to your face with a thorough daily cleanse, or be kind to the planet and steer clear of disposable landfill-bound products. Now you can do both. more
When it comes to the world of medical aesthetics, it really pays to do your research before you dive right in to experience it for yourself. One name that has a sterling reputation in Brisbane’s scene is Artisan Aesthetic Clinics. Since opening its first location in Fortitude Valley eight years ago (under the name Artisan Cosmetic & Rejuvenation Clinic), the team has gone on to become one of the most trusted and respected in the industry. Those in need of some TLC can now delight in the news that Artisan Aesthetic Clinics has expanded to include a Rosalie location, as well as rejuvenating its Fortitude Valley digs. more
Whether you're a Go-To Skincare fanatic or your thirsty pores are yet to experience the magical creations of founder, former beauty editor and author Zoë Foster Blake, you'll be (very) pleased to learn that the much-loved skincare brand is finally going bricks and mortar. more
When it comes to keeping your skin looking fab in summertime, it’s all about preparation. The winter months often leave us looking less than desirable, what with all of the flakiness and the faded tans of sunny days past. Now that the sun is out and our hemlines are getting shorter, it’s time to step up and get ready for beach season, baby! Cult online retailer Bali Body has just dropped its new range of skin saviours, just in time to get you glowing for summer. more
As much as the beautiful sunny days, steamy nights and abundance of mangoes are reason enough to love summertime, one of the things we appreciate most about a new season is the chance to update our wardrobes and give our beauty routines a little refresh. A change in weather signifies a change in both our fashion and skincare needs, so we’ve teamed up with the guru stylists at Westfield to pick their brains about must-have products coming into summer. more
