RAAIE is a newly launched botanical skincare brand. Image supplied.
Harnessing the transformative power of New Zealand botanicals, RAAIE is a new active skincare brand that launches online this week. RAAIE’s healing and shielding properties come from land, sea and alpine botanicals that survive in extreme New Zealand environments. Founded by Katey Mandy, RAAIE’s products combine science-backed, highly-effective active ingredients like vitamin C, hyaluronic acid and retinal, with powerful, locally-grown plant antioxidants.
“When I came back to New Zealand, I realised we are so fortunate to have access to a treasure trove of unique ingredients — some of which are only just being discovered,” says Katey, whose career spans 11 years of working in the fashion and beauty industries in London and New York. “New Zealand’s botanicals are special because of their resilience – they survive under some of the harshest UV in the world. In response, the plants have developed unique defensive mechanisms by producing very high levels of antioxidants. It’s like they have created their own ‘plant sunblock.’ This inspired me to create a brand of my own, one that would truly resonate with people and be a unique, sought-after presence in the global beauty landscape.”
Aotearoa has a complex relationship with the sun as while we enjoy spending time in it, our sun has increased in harshness and requires several methods of protection to minimise the effects of sun damage and ageing. Sun exposure is shown to be responsible for 80-90% of visible facial ageing. With that in mind, Mandy saw the need for products that are equally restorative and preventative, while being inspired by the power of nature to both protect and heal.
RAAIE’s first offering includes two essential products for morning and evening. The first is Morning Dew Vitamin C Serum, a powerful antioxidant serum that promises dramatically brighter skin. Two different types of vitamin C bestow a dewy glow, help to reduce redness and hyperpigmentation, and even out the skin tone.
Wild-harvested NZ alpine rosehip provides a natural form of vitamin A and omegas, while mamaku (native black fern) provides an instant firming effect. NZ blackcurrants, containing the highest anthocyanin levels of any berries, help to protect against UV damage. Native kānuka acts as a powerful inflammatory, and native marine sea algae infuse potent antioxidants. It’s designed to leave skin radiant and even-toned while minimising the appearance of sun damage such as fine lines.
The second product is Yellow Moonbeam Retinal Elixir which is a luxurious overnight treatment. It contains encapsulated retinal, a vitamin A derivative that is clinically proven to work 11 times faster than retinol (the common form of Vitamin A), without any irritation. It also has a much higher exfoliation rate than retinol, which leads to smooth, even-toned skin.
Bakuchiol and alpine mountain rosehip, both natural forms of vitamin A, work in tandem to encourage cellular turnover for a youthful glow, while mamaku tightens and marine algae provide antioxidants. Packed with linoleic acid, native harakeke boosts the skin’s barrier layer, and clinically-proven actives alpha tocopherol (vitamin E) and niacinamide (vitamin B3) work to reduce the appearance of pores and improve skin texture. All taking place in invisible harmony as you sleep.
“Fighting against free radicals (the main causes of premature ageing and unwanted skin changes), antioxidants benefit our skin in the same way they benefit the plants, protecting from future damage and allowing the skin to repair itself deep within; resulting in firmer, brighter, smoother looking skin,” adds Katey.
While the brand launches with two products, Katey has plans for a sunscreen, moisturiser, two cleansers and a nourishing oil treatment in future. Having worked on high-profile celebrity campaigns such as Katy Perry for ghd, Rosie Huntington-Whitely and Ryan Reynolds for M&S, and renowned Hollywood stylist Kate Young for Target, Katey has a strong vision for RAAIE which is reflected in the refined packaging and sculptural product vessels. Recognising their part in minimising waste RAAIE will also collect those empty vessels for free and then refill in their lab, caring for the earth from which the products are derived. RAAIE demonstrates core values that are more than just skin deep.
Images supplied.