The conversation around binary gender roles is one that continues to grow, especially when it comes to personal care products. Genderless beauty brands have started to infiltrate the market and it’s a step in the right direction as these brands are catering for everyone.
When it comes to men and women’s skin, there is a slight difference. In general, men’s skin is thicker and there is a contrast in texture and pore size, but this is why products should be chosen based on your skin needs, rather than your sex. So, when selecting genderless products, consider what concerns you are trying to address be it oily skin, dry skin, combination skin, acne, pigmentation, signs of ageing etc.
There are a bunch of genderless beauty brands who are changing the game, but these are a few of our faves…
Dermalist
Based in Melbourne, Dermalist is a cosmeceutical skincare brand that has formulated a two-step approach that replaces the traditional notion of complex skincare routines are necessary to achieve great results.
Our pick: Dermalist Radiance Essentials Kit, $79
Scientifically formulated with advanced active ingredients including powerful peptides as well as niacinamide, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, squalene and lactic acid, this kit includes Dermalist’s best-selling Ultra Hydrating Lactic Cleanser, Ultra Smoothing Facial Exfoliant and All Serum Skin Perfector. The products are suitable for all skin types and will help to leave skin looking smoother and more radiant.
Grown Alchemist
Based in Melbourne is results-driven skincare brand, Grown Alchemist, founded by brothers Keston and Jeremy. Through ground-breaking research, Grown Alchemist uses natural active ingredients to improve skin cell health, optimise skin function and reverse the signs of ageing.
Our pick: Hydra-Repair Eye Balm, $90
This rich Eye Balm is formulated with active ingredients that provide maximum hydration to the sensitive eye area while also minimising the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It leaves your eye area looking and feeling nourished and soft and is safe for those with sensitive skin.
Youth to the People
Inspired by their grandmother Eva, who was a pioneer in professional-grade skincare, cousins Greg Gonzalez and Joe Cloyes founded gender-neutral brand Youth to the People in 2015. The brand’s ethos is to use consciously-sourced ingredients that are good for your skin and the planet.
Our pick: Youth to the People Superberry Hydrate + Glow Dream Mask, $72
Formulated with squalane, hyaluronic acid, glycerin and betaine, this overnight mask is deeply hydrating and plumps and hydrated the skin thanks to the addition of antioxidant-rich superberries and THD ascorbate, the latest clinically-proven form of stable vitamin C. It also helps to correct dullness and uneven skin tone.
Allies of Skin
Designed with a busy lifestyle in mind, Allies of Skin uses clinically-proven actives to create clean formulas that help your skin repair, regenerate and reset itself. While Allies of Skin definitely takes a minimalist approach to skincare, all of the active, antioxidants and nutrients used in the products are made to be effective as possible.
Our pick: Allies of Skin Peptides & Antioxidants Firming Daily Treatment, $179.75
The Firming Daily Treatment works to boost collagen production in your skin, in order to combat inflammation, firm the skin and leave it looking radiant. It basically helps to reduce all signs of premature ageing and can be used daily as a moisturiser.
MERE
Australian brand MERE blends science and nature to create products that penetrate beyond your skin’s superficial layer. All of the products are packaged in chic, unisex violet bio-photonic glass, which selectively filters damaging light rays.
Our pick: MERE Bio-Divergent Cleansing Oil Complex, $48
Filled with nine oils including Active Australian Seabuckthorn Oil and Active Australian Wattle Seed Oil, this cleanser melts away impurities, pollution (and makeup) from the skin. It’s super gentle and can even be used around the eyes. Despite being oil-based, this product is perfect for all skin types as it’s super nourishing, helps boosts the skin’s natural protective barrier and balances the natural oil produced by the skin.
Aesop
Melbourne-based brand Aēsop is a lesson in creating luxe, genderless products that appeal to everyone. Aēsop offers products for skin, hair and body care and source plant-based and laboratory-made ingredients for their beauty products.
Our product pick: Aēsop Purifying Facial Exfoliant Paste, $60
This cream-based formulation is filled with fine quartz and lactic acid to remove dead skin cells and leave skin feeling soft and smooth. While this product is good for most skin types, it’s particularly useful for those living in cooler climates, people who shave and frequent travellers.
ASARAI
Founded by an Australian naturopath, ASARAI uses natural Aussie botanicals and ditches scary ingredients to create simple and effective skincare.
Our product pick: ASARAI Ultralight Moisture Cream, $49
Packed with vitamins, this light moisturiser hydrates your skin while also creating a light barrier to prevent pollution from the outside world interfering with your skin. It also helps protect against free radicals, is fast-absorbing and non-greasy.
