Sustainability at Saya: Our Commitment to Conscious Skincare

Saya began in Noosa over 20 years ago, grounded in the belief that skincare should be both effective and respectful to the earth. Our founder, Saya McDermott, started hand-making natural products to heal her own skin - driven by a desire for simplicity, purity, and results.

Guided by curiosity, integrity, and the natural beauty of Noosa, Saya created a skincare line that honours holistic healing and sustainability. What started as a personal journey has evolved into a consciously formulated, multi-correctional collection designed to nourish, protect and restore, all without compromise.

Rooted in Noosa, Reaching the World

Noosa isn’t just where we started, it’s who we are. Our home inspires everything from our ingredient choices to our environmental values. The ancient Australian botanicals that thrive here: like Kakadu Plum, Desert Lime, Macadamia, and Burdekin Plum, are woven through our formulations.

We continue to formulate and manufacture all of our products in Australia. Staying local allows us to maintain personal relationships with our suppliers and partners, ensuring transparency and shared values at every stage.

 

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Our Sustainability Philosophy

Sustainability at Saya is more than a marketing moment. It’s a commitment to progress that shapes every part of what we do:

- Australian-made and owned

- ACO Certified Organic and cruelty-free

- Thoughtfully formulated using botanical and lab-derived ingredients that are gentle on your skin and the planet

- Packaged with intention, using recyclable materials, minimal outer packaging, and a commitment to reducing virgin plastic

We’re not chasing trends - we’re building for longevity, simplicity, and environmental stewardship.

Ethical Ingredient Sourcing

We believe that what goes into your skincare should be just as important as what it leaves behind.

- All of our ingredients are ethically sourced from suppliers who meet our strict sustainability and transparency standards

- We favour native Australian botanicals for their potency and ecological alignment

- We avoid overharvested plants and environmentally damaging ingredients

- All formulas are free from synthetic fragrances, parabens, sulphates, and phthalates - to protect both your skin barrier and our waterways

When you choose Saya, you’re choosing skincare that’s as conscious as it is effective.

 

Packaging That Treads Lighter

We design our packaging with the same care we give our formulations.

- Recycled PET (rPET) bottles are used across the range

- Glass jars and bottles can be recycled at home (remember to separate droppers and lids)

- Aluminium tubes for our balms are infinitely recyclable

- All display boxes and mailers are made from FSC-certified recycled materials, and our shipping pebbles are biodegradable

- 500ml amenity pumps can be recycled when dismantled

We’re always looking at how to do better, and are currently exploring in-store refills and reduced virgin plastic initiatives.

 

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Minimal Rituals, Maximum Impact

One of the most powerful ways we practice sustainability is through simplicity. We create products that do more - so you can use less.

Each formula is multi-functional, cutting down on the need for excess steps and packaging. Some of our favourite examples include:

- Super Serum 

Hydrate, clarify, and rejuvenate in one intelligent step. This lightweight formula contains:

- 10% Niacinamide to improve clarity and calm inflammation

- Multi-weight Hyaluronic Acid for plump, hydrated skin

- Pentavitin® for 72-hour barrier support

- ChroNOline™ peptide to soften fine lines

- Australian wildberries for antioxidant protection

An everyday essential that replaces the need for multiple serums—conscious, simplified, and highly effective.

- Brightening Peel

(Sign up to our mailing list to be notified for our restock coming soon)

A leave-on AHA treatment powered by 7.5% Lactic Acid, Azelaic Acid, and Fruit Acid Complex, with a hydrating base of Hyaluronic Acid and Pentavitin®.

- Exfoliates without irritation

- Targets pigmentation and uneven texture

- Hydrates while you sleep

- Works across face, body, and scalp

This single product replaces multiple exfoliants - perfect for those seeking powerful results without the clutter.

- Argan Body Oil 

More than just a moisturiser, this multi-use oil:

- Hydrates and softens with Certified Organic Argan Oil

- Protects the skin barrier from environmental stress

- Leaves a subtle, natural scent from our signature essential oil blend

- Absorbs quickly with no greasy residue

Use it on damp skin post-shower, as a body treatment, or even in your hair.

 

Certified Organic. Cruelty-Free. Australian Made.

Saya is proud to be ACO Certified Organic, meeting both national and international organic production standards. Every product has been audited from ingredient sourcing to final production, ensuring they are free from GMOs, synthetic chemicals, and other harmful substances.

We are 100% Australian-made and owned, supporting fair working conditions, local suppliers, and sustainable growth across our community.

What’s Next

Sustainability is an evolving journey - not a finished checklist. We’re committed to continuing our work in:

- Reducing waste across our entire supply chain

- Expanding refill initiatives

- Prioritising long-term innovation over fleeting industry trends

- Encouraging rituals that are better for your skin and better for the planet

Ready to Make the Switch?

Explore our consciously crafted collection of skincare made for real routines and real results.

 

- Shop Conscious Skincare
- Learn More About Our Sustainability Practices