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Navigating your beauty purchases online can be overwhelming and confusing, especially if you’re not 100% sure what you’re looking for. One of the most frequently asked questions by customers is ‘is my skin dry or dehydrated’? These two often get confused as the same thing, however there are some integral differences that need to be determined before you should *add to cart.

So how can you easily identify if your skin is dry or dehydrated.

Let’s take a step back and talk skin types vs skin conditions. In short, skin types are for life, whereas skin conditions can change frequently and are in addition to skin types.  Normal, dry, sensitive, oily & combination, are all skin types. Skin conditions cover concerns such as acne, dermatitis, dehydration, sensitized skin, eczema & rosacea, just to name a few.  

Dry skin is a skin type, where the skin is lacking oils and lipids. A person with dry skin will have minimal visible pores, skin texture may appear thinner, finer with possible redness, flakiness and a rougher texture is not uncommon.   A true dry skin will enjoy textures that are rich, emollient and oily. Products with these rich textures work on more of a surface level and are going to be ideal of a true dry skin, protecting it like a barrier.  

Dehydrated skin is a skin condition where there is a lack of water in the skin. Dehydration can happen to all skin types, even oily acne prone skin – it’s actually very common in these skin types, due to the usage of products and active ingredients which help to eliminate acne. Some tell-tale visible signs of dehydration may be skin dullness, surface dehydration lines & skin itchiness. A dehydrated skin tends to enjoy water based, lightweight and fresher textures, that make your skin feel like they’ve had a big drink of water.  

Outlined below are a few products which would be ideal for dry & dehydrated skins.  

Dehydrated  

Treatments - Hyaluronate Skin Hydration Serum 

Deliver a daily boost of deep hydration to skin, with this skincare concentrate.  

Hyaluronic Acid (Sodium Hyaluronate) holds 1000 times its weight in water, so it’s extremely hydrating, plumping and will make skin smooth and hydrated. Use under your moisturiser for all day hydration.  

Rosewater Hydration - Moisture Boost Day Cream-Gel 

Keeping skin hydrated during the day is key to a youthful glow, less breakouts and excess oil production. Calming ingredients such as Rosewater can help to reduce redness, balance skin Ph & reduce acne scarring.  

Rosewater Hydration - Moisture Gel Sleeping Mask 

Skin repairs at night and replenishing ingredients such antioxidant Rosewater, plumping Hyaluronate and calming Calendula Flower deliver deep hydration and a softer, more supple complexion, whilst you sleep.  

Dry Skin  

Treatments - Goji Berry & Vitamin E Antioxidant Facial Essence 

Essences have been used for a long time in Asian skincare routines as an additional step to targeting intense hydration and a more radiant, plump complexion. Essences are traditionally used after your toner before your serum or moisturiser. The water like consistency, with the support of Hyaluronate, Goji Berries & Green Tea, provide hydration, strengthen the skins barrier function & reduce inflammation.  

Aromatherapy - Intensive Moisturising Day Cream 

Deliver essential daily hydration to your stressed and thirsty skin with this effective, concentrated plant-based cream. Botanical extracts and essential oils help to activate the skin's natural moisturising systems and promote a soft and supple radiance, leaving skin plump and nourished.  

Aromatherapy - Intensive Moisturising Night Cream 

Repair and replenish with this rich and deeply hydrating night cream. Nourishing plant oils and extracts promote supple skin and smooth fine lines and wrinkles for a more youthful, rested-looking complexion.  

Precious Oils – Regenerative Face Oil 

A beautiful blend of pure botanical oils, including Jojoba, Rosehip and Hazelnut. This rich nourishing oil is high in vitamins and essential fatty acids to help increase skin's hydration levels and improve elasticity for a more supple, firmer-looking complexion. 

Application tip: use alone, layer with a moisturiser or mix in a few drops into your moisturiser, on the back of your hand before applying to boost slip and efficacy, of your chosen moisturiser.  

As we peel off the winter layers and start to enjoy the sunshine amongst newfound freedoms, for many Australian's just getting out of lockdowns, appointments at your favourite salon are few and far between. Taking beauty into your own hands (literally) will help you to feel and look fabulous for the festive season.

An area which is the fastest to show ageing and is usually most neglected, tends to be your neck and décolletage. This is an area that is highly exposed to the elements and visible sun damage is common. Below is your recipe for a smoother, brighter and younger looking décolletage.

Neck & Décolletage Rejuvenation

Step 1. Gently buff the delicate neck & dec area using circular motions.

Step 2. Onto Damp skin apply the Ageless Hydrating Mask onto the freshly exfoliated area. Light a candle, make a cup of tea and put your feet up for 10 minutes while the mask works its magic, then rinse with lukewarm water.

Step 3. Apply the treatments Replenishing Neck & Decolletage Cream in upward sweeping motions to encourage lifting of the skin. Now it's time to enjoy your post treatment glow.

Note – you should always apply SPF on the neck & dec area during the day. My favourite is the Rosewater Hydration Moisture Balance Day Cream SPF 50+. This same treatment can be used on hands, simply replace the neck & dec cream with our favourite Natio hand cream.

Is your skin is looking tired, dull and lacking radiance? The below at home treatment will gently repair and replenish your skin in 15 minutes. The perfect routine as a pre party skin prep.

Repair, Replenish & Glow

Step 1. After cleansing your face, whilst skin is still damp, apply the Aromatherapy Gentle Facial Scrub in circular motions. Massage for 30 seconds before rinsing with lukewarm water.

Step 2. Apply the treatments Marine Mineral Overnight Repair Sleep Mask – this mask can be used as an overnight mask, however it can also be applied as a 10 min treatment mask. Apply a generous layer of the mask, leave on for 10 minutes and remove with lukewarm water.

Step 3. Revive tired eyes by applying the  treatments Plant Peptide Firm & Smooth Eye Cream with the rounded paddle applicator. This cooling paddle relives tension and puffiness, whilst the cream brightens and soothes the eye area.

Step 4. Deliver a boost of deep hydration with the  treatments Hyaluronate Skin Hydration Serum. Massage a few drops of the serum into your face, neck and décolletage area.

Step 5. Follow with your chosen Natio moisturiser. A good all round, anti-ageing moisturiser is the treatments Skin Renewal Ceramide Line & Wrinkle Cream. Formulated with skin-firming Ceramides and Omega 3, 6 and 9 essential fatty acids, this luxurious cream offers gentle yet effective smoothing and replenishment for ageing skin.

For those with oilier or on occasion problematic skin, the below at home treatment will leave skin deeply cleansed, hydrated and balanced.

Deep Cleanse & Balance

Step 1. Gently sweep the treatments Radiant Skin Exfoliating Wipe over a cleansed face and neck, avoiding eye area. Wait 1 minute, then rinse away with water. The wipes contain Plant PHAs (Poly Hydroxy Acids) which gently dissolve away dead skin cells without abrasion, helping to smooth skin texture and reveal a healthy, radiant glow.

Step 2. Apply a thin layer of the Clear Deep Detox Charcoal Mask, avoiding the eye area. Leave to dry for 5-10 minutes, less if you have sensitive skin. Rinse thoroughly with warm water and wipe with a face cloth.

Step 3. Warm a few drops of the Clear Skin Balancing Face Oil in your hands and gently press into the skin. The replenishing blend of targeted plant oils and extracts will help bring calm and harmony to unbalanced skin. With Hemp Seed to help balance oil production, Tea Tree to minimise redness and Salicylic Acid to dissolve surface impurities. Your post treatment skin should look clearer, brighter and more radiant.

Mascara is a vital part of any simple makeup routine, and these days there are a myriad of mascara formulations to suit any preference. You can choose from waterproof formulas, mascaras that lift, curl, separate or lengthen. And the next-generation of mascaras are Tubing Mascaras. Tubing mascaras are ideal for achieving a natural makeup look, that’s easy to apply and lasts all day. They differ in their formula to traditional style mascaras, which need to be removed with cleansers, oil or makeup removers. Instead, tubing mascaras ‘wipe away’ with water – no smudging, flaking or mess!

How do tubing mascaras work?

Formulated with high tech polymers (to create the 'tubing' effect), these mascaras wrap lashes in no-mess, long-wearing tubes that set quickly, amplify lashes and stay in place all day. It makes them a comfortable and low-maintenance option that won’t smudge on application or budge from humidity, sweat or natural oils.

Who do tubing mascaras suit?

The short answer – anyone! They can be used on lashes of any length, are easy to apply and remove, and create a soft natural look. More specifically however, tubing mascaras are great for people who find traditional mascaras smudge or transfer due to sweat, watery eyes or oily eyelids. This also makes them great for humid environments (hello beach holidays!) or for wear during exercise. Natio’s Tubing Mascaras range includes two brush options in two shades. The formulas are cruelty free, vegan friendly and feature natural ingredients to care for lashes: Candelilla and Carnauba Waxes, as well as extracts of Elderberry, Blackcurrant, Peppermint and Cassia Bark.

How do I use tubing mascaras?

These types of mascaras are great for lengthening and thickening, rather than providing curl. So, it’s a good idea to start by curling your eyelashes first. Then choose between the two brushes and two colors available: Natio’s Precision Tubing Mascara features a slim line brush designed to locate and individually wrap each and every lash - no matter how short - in micro fine tubes of volume-building fibres for a natural look.  Best for reaching the inner corners or short, straight lashes - without any mess. Available in Black and Brown/Black.

While the Infinite Tubing Mascara features a larger, domed brush which cleanly and generously builds length and volume for a more dramatic fringe effect.

Now it’s time to apply! For separated and defined lashes, zig-zag/wiggle the wand at the base of the lashes to build volume before pulling through the lengths. For added lift, apply to the underside of lashes, rather than the top. 

Apply 2 coats while the mascara is wet - don't let it dry between coats. 

How do I remove my tubing mascara?

The easy removal of tubing mascara is one of its main benefits. Tubing mascaras don't require any makeup remover; simply saturate a cotton pad with warm water and hold it against your lashes for 30 seconds, then gently wipe mascara off lashes. No mess, no smudging, no hassles!

Not sure which Tubing Mascara to try?

Generally speaking, if you have short or straighter lashes - go for the Precision Mascara. Its small brush will help you locate and wrap each and every lash for a naturally defined look. If you want general volume and lengthening, try the Infinite Mascara. And if you experience watery eyes, oily eyelids, or sensitivity to some traditional mascaras or makeup removers, you’ll love both brushes and the non-slip tubing style of this clever mascara formulation!

Christmas has always been a time for giving, but this year there’s a growing trend for thinking deeper about what that really means and finding joy in more meaningful ways.

A considered Christmas is one that might still capture the hearts of little ones and see the family gather to share in the joy of the festive season, but each and every one of us also has the opportunity to do our part to minimise waste, care for the planet and those less fortunate in the community. Whether you set aside some spare toys, food at the local supermarket or think about ways to reduce waste as the presents pile up under the tree, there are many things we can all do to spread the love and tread lightly on the planet this Christmas.

One small way that Natio is contributing to a more sustainable Christmas this year, is by ensuring that our new ‘Made for Giving’ gift set collection packaging is free from PVC and single use plastics. Each set has been mindfully created with beautiful bags and boxes, designed to be re-used well beyond the festive season. All our gift sets include recycled packaging components and recyclable or reusable packaging to help reduce our impact on the environment.

We may not be saving the planet, but again, it’s another step in the right direction toward helping create a more considered approach to the most wonderful time of the year, and beyond.

Coupled with our commitment to never test on animals, running our headquarters on solar power and our support for a number of charitable causes, we hope to inspire others in the community to think of ways we can all contribute to a more sustainable future.

As we all know, a warming planet presents an ominous future - it means rising sea levels, increased frequency and intensity of weather events (fires, floods, cyclones droughts), ocean acidification and species loss, all of which puts our health, livelihoods, food security, freshwater supply and sustainable development at risk.

The most recent IPCC report stated that global warming is likely to reach 1.5° C between 2030 and 2050 of it continues at the current rate. However… limiting global warming to 1.5° C compared to 2° C could make a significant impact. The next 2-3 years are a critical window when many of the policy and investment decisions that are made will shape the future of our planet.

As part of Natio’s commitment to the environment, the family-owned business has recently invested heavily in its own solar energy. In 2019, 264 solar panels were installed across the sprawling rooftop above Natio headquarters and warehouse facilities. The output is enough to cover both its head office and distribution centre’s power needs, with enough spare to feed back into the grid.

“The installation is just one way we can ensure we are doing our bit to work towards a carbon neutral future. We wanted not only to produce enough energy to service our own needs here in Melbourne, but to be able to feed additional power back into the grid” says Natio Managing Director, Mahesh Ross.

Describing the new panels atop Natio HQ, Ross added “It's a small contribution, but they all add up. Producing this energy using solar panels saves more than 80 tonnes of carbon emissions from going into the atmosphere each year.”

Back in 2009, there were just 85,000 solar systems connected to the mains grid in Australia. Fast forward to 2021 and more than 2.65 million solar panel systems have been installed on rooftops throughout the nation and gigawatts if large scale solar energy projects are in place, being developed or in the pipeline. This move towards a cleaner future has been spearheaded by innovative industry leaders. Natio is proud to be in the company of these leaders wanting to ensure they do their bit to secure a carbon neutral Australia for generations to come.

Fortunately, participating in the growth of solar is something we can all participate in. Homes can now be fitted with solar panels, and most local governments are still offering generous rebates for this who invest in the clean energy solution.

Perhaps Natio’s rooftop revolution will inspire others in the community to consider the option themselves, as well as take comfort in knowing that Natio, too, are keen to keep finding new ways to make this world a better place.

“From investing in renewable energy, to revising and recycling materials wherever possible, Natio is committed to reducing our environmental footprint across the entire business” says Ross.

Australia is known the world over for its laidback and easygoing lifestyle. These characteristics have also been the source of inspiration for Natio, from the very beginning.

Launched in Melbourne more than 25 years ago, Natio’s mission was to create skincare and beauty products that were uncomplicated, fuss-free and refreshingly real - a reflection of Australians themselves. This same mission holds true today.

By staying true to this philosophy, Natio’s product lineup has stood the test of time, remaining relevant and embraced on our own shores, and providing customers around the world a slice of the Australian way.

Natio skincare formations have been designed for simplicity of use, enjoyment of application and efficacy in providing heathy, happy skin results. 

Ingredients are sourced from nature and used for their ability to help achieve healthy, glowing skin. Botanical extracts and essential oils are used throughout the range, including native ingredients such as Lemon Ironbark, Kakadu Plum, Muntrie, Tea Tree and Desert Lime (see Natio Spirit range).

Natio’s beloved island home is also renowned for its diverse, resilient and truly unique landscape - also a primary source of inspiration for Natio, specifically in its colour cosmetic offering. Natio’s makeup range proudly reflects the beautiful palettes of Australia’s natural landscapes and vibrant flora. You’ll find this in the shimmering sea, sand and shell tones of Natio eyeshadows, radiant sunlit bronzing powders, petal pink lip colour shades and the colours of a dazzling west coast sunset bottled to brighten nails. Australia offers no shortage of natural beauty.  

Natio supports local industry. All skincare is made in Australia, alongside the majority of the business’ cosmetics offering. The entire spectrum of Natio products is 100% designed in Australia and Australian owned. Wherever possible, the business works with Australian owned and operated manufacturers and suppliers as a priority.

Even Natio’s leafy ‘home amongst the gum trees’, surrounded by wattle and gum in Melbourne, provides a connection to nature and another nod to its ‘Australian-ness’.

Australian through and through, Natio loves its home, cherishes its uniqueness and invites you to share in that joy by supporting your favourite Aussie brands and makers - today and into the future.

In what has since been described as one of Australia’s greatest natural disasters, the devastating bushfires of Summer 2019/20 decimated native flora, fauna and communities across many parts of the country.

One area hit especially hard was New South Wales’ South-East coast where the blazes not only left thousands of residents out of home, but tragically also claimed the lives of billions of animals in the region too.

With a proud history of loving animals and the devastated region - in fact, a “home away from home” for three generations of Natio’s founding family - Natio felt compelled to offer assistance in a meaningful way. In the months following the blaze, the family-owned skincare and cosmetics brand reached out to the Wildlife Rescue South Coast and formed a powerful partnership to support the volunteers in their bushfire response.

Operating 24 hours a day through 100% volunteer contributions, the WRSC is dedicated to the rehabilitation and rescue of animals along the coastline.These fires were the worst they had responded to since the organisation was formed more than 30 years ago.

With Natio’s funding and support, food and formula were made available to the orphaned and injured animals in the WRSC’s care.

“The contribution Natio made was incredible and greatly received” says WRSC volunteer Janine Davies, who has been with the organisation for nearly a decade.

“Wildlife groups like us are entirely volunteer based, with no government funding. The donation went directly towards critical needs for thousands of displaced and injured animals in our care. The food and formula went straight into the mouths of kangaroos, wallabies, wombats, birds, flying foxes and man other injured species.”

Natio also called on its vast community of more than 60,000 customers and friends to inform themselves of the WRSC’s efforts to help to continue to raise valuable funds towards the cause.

In heartening news, residents have reported that just in the last few months, they are starting to see eucalyptus leaves sprouting from the ashes of burnt-out trees - a sign of new life, bringing fresh hope to those who’ve witnessed so much devastation in their region.

If you’d like to contribute to the efforts of the WRSC, you can go to their website at: https://www.wildlife-rescue.org.au/

With a philosophy that has always been guided by a connection to the Earth and deep appreciation for nature, Natio is choosing to play a part in the solution towards a healthier planet. The Australian, family-owned business understands that even the small choices it makes as a business can generate big ripples.

To date, Natio has implemented a number of initiatives around native wildlife rescue, recycling packaging reform and renewable energy (with the Australian head office and warehouse now solar powered.) And now, Natio has also joined a an exciting world-first sustainability packaging initiative.

Together with its tube supplier Impact International, Natio is part of a forest initiative that offsets the carbon from the manufacture of its 100ml tubes, used widely across the Natio range to hold cleansers, moisturisers, masks, Suncare and more.

With an estimated 20,000 pine tress and other native vegetation on the Impact International Forest site, the carbon emissions from the manufacture of up to 30 million tubes can be offset, each and every year.

Impact International Managing Director, Aleks Lajovoic, said by participating in the sustainable forest program, Natio has "access to the most sustainable tubes available in the world, plus are helping to protect native wildlife".

In addition to reducing Natio’s emissions through carbon offsetting, the 114 acre forest is also home to dozens of animal species, including kangaroos, wombats, echidnas, wallabies, turtles and many native birds. Operating and maintaining this forest protects their habitat and provides sanctuary for these species and more. 1,300 native trees will also be preserved, rehabilitated and protected from deforestation through this initiative.

In an ongoing commitment to being a responsible and ethical business, Natio is always looking for viable opportunities to reduce its carbon footprint, and in turn, the business’ impact on the natural environment and global resources.

“The move towards sustainability is evident everywhere - it’s in the media we consume, the industry news we are exposed to and certainly the feedback we receive from our distributors and customers” says Mahesh Ross, Natio Managing Director.

“Individuals are more aware of how their actions impact their own carbon footprint than ever before, and they expect the same from their favourite brands” says Ross.

It may only be a small contribution in the bigger scheme of thing, but by continuing to participate in proactive opportunities to reduce its collective carbon footprint, Natio hopes it can help lead the way to a more sustainable future.

To read more, visit https://impacttubes.com/our-forest/

Scented candles are an ideal way to achieve true holistic wellbeing. They have the ability to transform a space using scent only, and create an environment to help us feel secure, comfortable and relaxed. The scent you choose can be selected to suit your mood, from creating a warming cosy feel through to an uplifting ambience to bring energy into your sanctuary.

Did you know there are Dos and Don’ts when it comes to getting the best out of your Scented Candles?

Of course, some are obvious – there for safety reasons such as never leaving a candle unattended or burning them around children. But there are also some lesser-known scented candle tips that will help make your candles to smell better, last longer, and burn more evenly.

1. READ THE FINE PRINT

Yes, candles normally carry a warning label, usually on the base of the candle itself or the box it came in. Get started by reading the label, which will outline all the important safety advice you should know about that particular product.

This info may vary from candle to candle, depending on its size, volume, wax, wick type and number of wicks, so it’s important to take a moment to read this with any new candle you purchase.

2. BURNING TIME MATTERS

You should never light a candle for 10 minutes only. This causes a narrow pooling of wax around the wick. Natio Scented Candles are designed to be used for between 1-3 hours, especially on the first use. This ensures an even, clean burn for the rest of your candle’s life.

3. WATCH THE WAX

As the candle burns, wax will naturally melt and pool around the wick. Did you know it’s important to keep an eye on the amount of liquid wax in your candle? If there is too much (more than around 12mm), it can cause your candle to crack.

TIP: If the wax does start to pool around the wick, simply extinguish the candle and allow the wax to become solid before using it again. 

4. WATCH THE WICKS

Candle wicks needs to be kept in top shape. All this takes is a little trim now and then.

Ideally you want to keep your wicks no longer than 7mm – any longer and they will burn too quickly and cause the sooting black smoke you may have seen on the inside of a candle jar.

Once the wick needs a trim, just snip it back with a pair of scissors or specialist wick trimmer. 

5. EXTINGUSH SAFELY

This may seem obvious – but you should never use the lid of a scented candle to extinguish it (by placing it back on top of the candle while still burning). Always blow a candle out, or use a candle snuffer to extinguish the flame.

6. KNOW WHEN IT’S TIME TO SAY GOODBYE

How do you know when that time comes? A candle has come to the end of its life (for burning, at least) once the amount of solid wax gets down to 13mm. The jars can still be handy though. Empty the remaining wax by freezing the candle overnight, then simply tipping it upside down. The (now shrunken) remaining wax should tip right out. If it doesn’t, all it needs it a gentle push with a spoon on one side of the wax to remove the waxy disc.

Now continue using the empty vessel for storage or even as a vase for small flower arrangements and continue to fill your home with the beautiful, blissful scents of nature.

Other safety tips

• Do not leave candles burning unattended
• Do not use candles around children or pets
• Do not use under curtains, blinds, plants, near flammable items or in draughty areas
• Do not move while burning or while wax is still liquid
• Store candles in a cool, dry, preferably dark environment
• When not in use store with the lid secured

Natio Scented Candles

• Are Made in Australia
• Are refined with natural Essential Oils
• Use lead-free cotton wicks and a natural Soy-blend wax
• Have up to 50 hours burn time
• Are housed in a timeless matte white glass vessel