Harnessing the power of native Australian botanicals
Since our earliest formulations, we have utilised the power of native botanical ingredients to create effective skincare with multiple benefits for the skin. Surviving in some of the harshest conditions in the world and used for centuries by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, Australian ingredients are now renowned worldwide for their potent bioactive properties and healing abilities.
In this article we’ll explore some of our favourite Australian ingredients and why we love them. So, without further ado, read on to discover Saya’s guide to native botanicals –
Kakadu Plum
Kakadu Plum, known for its remarkably high levels of vitamin C, brightens the skin and enhances radiance while effectively combating dullness and uneven skin tone. With up to 100 times more vitamin C than oranges by weight, Kakadu Plum delivers extraordinary antioxidant protection, playing an essential role in preserving skin health and promoting youthfulness.
Adapted over centuries to endure extreme conditions like heat, drought, UV exposure, winds, and floods, it stores vital phyto-compounds (biologically active compounds found in plants). Kakadu Plum is used in the traditional medicine of Australian Indigenous communities as an antiseptic and a soothing balm for aching limbs.
We use Kakadu Plum across most of our face range as part of our signature blend of three native plums - Kakadu Plum, Illawarra Plum and Burdekin Plum.
Found in: The Kimberleys and Arnhem Land, Northern Territory
Benefits of Kakadu plum for skin:
- Brightens complexion and evens out skin tone.
- Reduces signs of ageing with powerful antioxidants
- Plumps skin by encouraging natural collagen production
- Soothes and calms skin with anti-inflammatory properties
- Supports skin repair and regeneration processes.
- Helps prevent and fight UV-induced damage.
- Brightens dark spots and pigmentation
Discover Kakadu Plum in Saya’s Renew Serum, Glow Serum, Cleansing Gel, Cleansing Balm, Intense Moisture and Balance Moisture.
Macadamia Nut Oil
Macadamia nut oil, extracted from the nuts of the macadamia tree, is exceptionally high in rich essential fatty acids that deeply hydrate and soften the skin. It has a luxurious texture that absorbs easily without leaving a greasy residue, making it suitable for all skin types, including acne-prone and sensitive skin. Growing in Australian rainforest for thousands of years, Macadamias have been used in Indigenous Australian cooking and traditional medicine for centuries.
Found in: Southern Queensland and Northern New South Wales.
Key benefits for skin:
- Intense hydration for smooth and supple skin
- Protects the skin barrier to prevent dehydration
- Reduces signs of ageing with powerful antioxidants
- Soothes sensitive with anti-inflammatory properties
- Lightweight and quick-absorbing texture
- Assists in skin repair and regeneration - aiding in the fading of scars and minor skin irritations.
Discover macadamia in Saya’s Cleansing Balm, Argan Body Oil and Rich Body Cream
Caviar Lime
Caviar lime, also called finger lime, grows in the Australian rainforest. The fruit has a unique citrus flavor, and small caviar-like pearls that are full of natural actives and antioxidants. Known as a traditional bush food, caviar lime is used in skincare products for exfoliating and brightening properties. Caviar lime contains natural alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) that gently exfoliate the skin, promoting smoother texture and enhanced radiance. It also has a high concentration of Vitamin C, making it a powerful antioxidant to aid in the repair of damaged skin and prevent signs of ageing.
Found in: Sub-tropical rainforests of Northern New South Wales and Queensland
Benefits of caviar lime for skin:
- Brightens skin and reduces hyperpigmentation
- Antioxidants protect skin from free radical damage
- Prevents ageing and aids skin elasticity
- AHAs provide gentle exfoliation
- Hydrates and moisturises
- Soothes and calms irritated skin, making it suitable for sensitive skin conditions like acne or rosacea.
- Promotes a radiant, youthful glow.
Discover caviar lime in Saya’s Glow Serum and Brightening Peel.
Desert Lime
One of the most resilient citrus varieties in the world, desert lime is native to semi-arid regions of Eastern Australia and is tolerant to extreme heat, drought and cold. It delivers significant skincare benefits thanks to its rich nutrient profile and boasts high levels of vitamin C. Similarly to caviar lime, it contains natural AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids), particularly citric acid. Desert lime's hydrating and calming properties are suitable to all skin types, including sensitive skin prone to inflammation, making it a versatile addition to skincare routines.
Found in: Semi-arid and desert regions of Queensland, New South Wales, and the Northern Territory.
Benefits of desert lime for skin:
- Brightens skin and evens skin tone
- Antioxidants protect skin from free radical damage
- AHAs provide gentle exfoliation for smoother skin
- Hydrates and moisturises
- Soothes and calms irritated skin
Discover desert lime in Saya’s Glow Serum, Brightening Peel and Hand Wash.
Lemon Myrtle
With potent antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, the benefits of lemon myrtle in skincare include cleansing and purifying the skin, combating bacteria and fungi. It has a beautiful citrus scent and actually contains the highest purity of citral of any citrus, making it more lemony than lemons themselves.
Found in: Subtropical rainforests of Queensland and New South Wales
Benefits of lemon myrtle for skin:
- Antibacterial healing properties
- Reduces signs of ageing
- Minimises the look of pores
- Regulates sebum levels
- Anti-inflammatory properties soothe and calm irritated skin
- Aromatherapeutic benefits with an invigorating citrus scent
Discover lemon myrtle in Saya’s Body Wash
Quandong
Quandong, also known as desert peach, is a native Australian fruit traditionally used by Indigenous Australians for its nutritional value and medicinal properties. In skincare, the benefits of quandong are its rich nutrient content, including vitamin C, essential fatty acids, and antioxidants. Quandong has adapted naturally to survive intense sun and tough environmental conditions over thousands of years. When applied topically as a plant extract, Quandong brings these protective qualities, helping to shield the skin from sun damage, pollution, and harmful toxins, keeping it healthy and vibrant.
Found in: Central and southern Australia
Benefits of quandong for skin:
- Moisturises and nourishes
- Promotes collagen production
- Brightens skin tone and improves overall skin texture
- Protects the skin barrier
- Supports skin repair
Discover quandong in Saya’s Hand & Body Lotion, Rich Body Cream, Argan Shampoo and Argan Conditioner
At Saya, we have been formulating natural skincare for over twenty years and are passionate about sharing the wonders of native Australian botanicals. We believe in multi-functional and multi-correctional skincare, something made possible by utilising high-quality, potent natural ingredients in our products.
Read our Guide to Native Australian Botanicals to discover all of the native ingredients we use.