The Australian beauty brand has always been known for its focus on organic, plant-based ingredients. Our bodies recognise and respond most effectively to natural ingredients that are biocompatible to our cellular functions, reducing the likelihood of irritation and promoting healthier skin. By incorporating scientific research into skincare science, Grown Alchemist formulations are designed to deliver visible effects without compromising our skin and the environment.

Unsurprisingly, our skin health reflects what we ingest and apply. In line with its philosophy for biocompatibility, Grown Alchemist offers a clean beauty option for girlies concerned with the potential effects of harmful synthetic chemicals. It’s also entirely cruelty-free, meaning products are never tested on animals, and it has environmental commitments to sustainable sourcing and eco-conscious packaging.

I’ve picked out and tested some of Grown Alchemist’s skincare products that work beautifully for sensitive skin in the cold this holiday season.

Instant Smoothing Serum

Skincare concerns: Dryness, uneven texture

Texture: Lightweight, silky serum

Dosage: Twice daily, on moist skin after cleansing and follow with moisturiser

Key Ingredients:

• Triple weight hyaluronic acid – Biomimetic, multi-layer skin hydration

• Glycerin – Locks in moisture for a healthy barrier and plump, supple skin

• Resurrection leaf – Organically certified plant that improves skin barrier function

The woes of having combination and sensitive skin; I am very fussy about serums and stay far away from anything that leaves an unabsorbed residue on my skin. By winter, I’m at least a bottle or two deep in hyaluronic acid serums that I live on for deeper, more intense hydration.

Hyaluronic acid comes in different molecular weights, with higher weights giving quicker moisturising effects at a tradeoff for temporary results that tend to work on only the superficial layer of skin. By featuring a trio of high, medium and low-weight molecules, the Instant Smoothing Serum is designed to draw moisture into the lower layers of the dermis and lock in moisture on the skin surface. The result is a consistency that skins into the skin like water on a sponge, leaving it instantly moisturised and quenched for a smoother, more radiant complexion.

I love that it gives a healthy glow without the sticky residue, almost like I’m wearing a highlighter on a bare-faced day. Plus, it’s vegan and fragrance-free.

Regenerating Gel Mask

Skincare concerns: Ageing, dryness, firmness and elasticity, uneven skin tone

Texture: Lightweight gel mask with a cooling sensation upon application

Dosage: Up to 3 times a week

Key Ingredients:

• Rambutan – Reduces the appearance of wrinkles and increases skin elasticity, with similar biological pathways to retinol

• Pomegranate – Evens skin tone and texture through effective enzyme exfoliation promoting increased cellular turnover

• Echinacea – Smooths appearance of fine lines and wrinkles

• Green tea – Antioxidant properties protect skin against free radicals

Every winter season, I shudder at the harrowing thought of applying a cold sheet mask to my face which makes me frantically dig out my cream masks. If you’re anything like me, you’ll enjoy the Regenerating Gel Mask that provides equally refreshing hydration with much more comfort.

I believe it used to be known as the Age-Repair Gel Masque (also with pomegranate), which has been given a facelift with an advanced formula of ingredients to soothe and relieve sensitive skin while counteracting the signs of ageing. Its lightweight texture makes it an easy go-to, and you can apply it as you go around your morning routine at home and wash it off before you get ready for the day. A quick fix for tired and dull complexions looking to feel more supple, firm and hydrated.

Tip: Unless it’s freezing outside, I’d keep this in the fridge to depuff and rejuvenate more readily.

Skin Defense Primer

Skincare concerns: Fine lines and wrinkles, pores and dryness 

Texture: Lightweight, colourless gel that dries down to a velvety matte texture

Key Ingredients:

• Prebiotic peptide: Supports a strong skin barrier

• Ashwagandha: Reduces visible signs of fatigue, reviving healthy-looking glow

• Reishi mushroom extract: Rich in antioxidants and polysaccharides

I admit I’m more a tinted sunscreen base than a full-on primer type of girl in line with J- and K-beauty trends, but wow, Grown Alchemist’s primer could potentially change my makeup routine. It doesn’t sound revolutionary, but how it spreads effortlessly, instantly blurring and mattifying, is such a joy. Lightweight and silicone-free, it smooths out skin texture and reduces the appearance of pores (without clogging them up) while counteracting unwanted oiliness and shine. The nourishing blend of active ingredients also hydrates and protects the skin barrier, providing an invisible defence against environmental exposure.

There is a faint scent, but it is fairly pleasant and contains less than 1% synthetic fragrances, so it doesn’t irritate. You can wear the primer alone for a natural glow or as a base layer for makeup to glide over flawlessly. Just wait until your skincare and sunscreen are completely dry before applying so it doesn’t pill. It’ll be the secret to prolonging your party looks so they last all night.

Holiday Kits

Gift-giving is more than slapping a big red bow on a pretty box. It’s a thoughtful gesture that says you’ve been thinking of them, and there’s nothing I love more than seeing the expression of delight when someone unwraps a present they genuinely love but did not think of buying for themself. This Christmas season, Grown Alchemist has curated limited edition holiday kits full of their bestsellers for different budgets, so there’s something for everyone on your holiday shopping list.

To sweeten the deal, you can enjoy 20% off selected products this Christmas when you purchase a Holiday Kit or full-sized body cleanser/cream at Grown Alchemist in Hong Kong, valid in stores until 31 December 2024. Honestly, there’s no better time (or excuse) for self-gifting so you can glow with your girlies all season long.

Bonus: head to their new store at Kai Tak SOGO for extra fun creating your WhatsApp stickers!

For transparency, the post features press products kindly gifted by the PR team but without obligation to share on the blog. This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we receive a commission when you click the links and make a purchase.

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