"We've been making chemical-free, plant-based products that are kind to the skin and the environment since the day we started. For us, being natural and sustainable isn't jumping on the latest trend; it's about staying true to the values we've held for decades. And we are proud to stand by our values."
Our Story Began in 1988
Long before the beauty industry recognised the need for more gentle and eco-friendly alternatives, Carol Priest was pioneering the path towards clean, non-toxic, natural beauty since its establishment of 1988.
Our early adoption of a chemical-free ethos was not just innovative but revolutionary, setting a new benchmark for the industry. This foresight was a clear reflection of Carol Priest’s commitment to offering products that are safe, effective, and in harmony with nature.
Carol Priest’s philosophy is deeply rooted in the belief that nature provides the best solutions for nurturing and caring for our skin. Each product in our range is a symphony of natural ingredients, carefully chosen for their purity and efficacy. From rejuvenating skincare to nurturing haircare, every item is designed to enhance natural beauty without the harsh impact of synthetic chemicals.
As we look towards the future, Carol Priest’s journey continues to inspire. Each product is a blend of nature's finest, crafted with your well-being in mind. Join us in stepping into a world where personal care is not just about looking good but feeling good and doing good for our world.
Carol Priest, a visionary scientist formerly associated with the pharmaceutical giant Glaxo Smith Kline, became aware of the harmful effects of chemical ingredients on the human body. Driven by a desire to create products that were safe, effective, and in harmony with nature, she began developing natural skincare products in 1988.
What started off in her own kitchen was not just innovative but revolutionary, setting a new benchmark for the industry. She put the products in glass jars and bottles and disclosed the full ingredient list, even when it wasn't mandatory. Her dedication has not only carved a niche in the personal care market but also set new industry standards, encouraging a shift towards more mindful and environmentally conscious practices.
After 36 years, Carol and her daughter Janelle are still involved in the formulation & manufacturing of every product. This hands-on approach ensures that each item they produce carries their personal touch and expertise.
In 2006, Carol Priest became one of the first skincare brands in New Zealand to receive organic certification by BioGro.
The use of terms 'natural' and 'organic' is not strictly regulated in personal care industry. A number of companies purchase and use various natural and organic ingredients in their products and market the brand as 'natural', though not always containing only natural ingredients.
Most commercial products contain at least some synthetic components, diluting the essence of what 'natural' truly means. In order to create a genuine natural formulation, plant-derived bioactive compounds should be combined with plant-derived emulsifiers, surfactants, humectants, pigments, preservatives, and other ingredients. However, even those plant-derived compounds are often adulterated with synthetic or toxic intermediates as it is very costly to go 100% natural and plant-based.
That is why we pride ourselves on being the highest certified level of clean and natural: Certified Organic. The certification serves as a seal of trust, assuring customers that our products are free from harmful synthetic chemicals, produced in an environmentally conscious manner, and in alignment with sustainable practices.
From the soil where our ingredients are grown to the hands of our consumers, we ensure that every step of our production process meets the highest organic standards.
All our products are manufactured in Nelson, a picturesque town located on the South Island of New Zealand. Nelson has been at the heart of our operations since the 1990s, and it’s here that our philosophy took root.
The purity and tranquility of our homeland inspire every step of our manufacturing process and define our products.
In a world where mass production often compromises quality, we stand firm in our belief that good things take time.
In Nelson, life moves at a different rhythm. The slow pace of this region isn't just a way of life; it's a critical element of our manufacturing process.
Our products are made in small batches, ensuring that each one receives the attention it deserves. By taking our time, we focus on every detail, from selecting the finest ingredients from the world and our homeland, carefully blending them, and to the final touches in packaging. Every product that leaves our facility has been infused with care, consideration, and precision.
We’re not in a rush to push out the next big thing; instead, we’re focused on creating products that stand the test of time, offering real, lasting results.
Our mission is to provide exceptional care for skin, hair, and body through superior botanical ingredients. We take pride in helping our customers experience the profound benefits of nature's healing and rejuvenating properties through our products.
Our customers' experiences speak volumes about the efficacy of our products. From those struggling with dryness and sensitivity to others seeking more youthful, radiant complexions, the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.