Elemental magic: Make-up looks to nature
Cast off those chemicals – nourishing plant and mineral extracts are what define tomorrow’s luxury cosmetics
In recent years, our insatiable quest for better skin, health and bodies has given way to a more holistic outlook on wellbeing, as a rise in interest towards fitness and mindfulness continues to positively influence the market. Questioning our food sources, retail supply chains and indeed our own thought processes has led to a new generation of luxury being redefined through sustainability and minimalism. This year, a handful of beauty brands are challenging us to take a deep look into our make-up bag and ask the same questions. Welcome to the new wave of natural.
As pioneers of change, global beauty brands old and new have embarked on a mission to revolutionise the cosmetics industry. Raw ingredients and natural preservatives replace potentially harmful parabens at Kjaer Weis, where synthetic fragrances are also swapped for wildflower extracts. Meanwhile, minerals, oils and plant segments have lent a hand in developing the science behind skin technology at Perricone MD. It seems 2017 will be defined by its "no make-up make-up" trend as we shift our focus to beauty from the inside-out.
Danish-born, New York-based make-up artist Kirsten Kjaer Weis began exploring the world of organic make-up after years of witnessing acne breakouts and allergic reactions on her clients. She founded her eponymous brand in 2010, with the vision to create a high-performance, nature-based formula using packaging that remained contemporary for the modern-day consumer. Avoiding the harsh chemicals and silicone substitutes that are key ingredients at most beauty counters, she demanded only "the best, luxurious skin-healing oils" to be filtered through her range, incorporating such products as sweet almond, used to moisturise skin and promote elasticity, and coconut, a natural moisturiser thought to have antibacterial properties. You can shop the collection online and through luxury retailer Net a Porter.
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It comes as no surprise that Perricone MD – a household name that has been shaking up our cosmetic regimes since 1997 – is also at the forefront of this plant-based beauty revolution. Created by Dr Nicholas Perricone, the brand is globally renowned for innovation within skincare science and technology. The brand's latest release, the No Makeup make-up range, is no different, promising to tackle the skin's change in pigment as we age, as well as providing an instant glow. The Perricone online store also offers a replenishment service at a ten per cent discount, so you never have to break the habits of healthy skin.
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