Being a beauty founder takes ingenuity, resilience and a large dose of creativity to make your brand stand out from the pack. Here are four women-owned brands setting the standard in Australian beauty.
Vanessa Gray Lyndon The founder of skincare brand Vanessa Megan prides herself on being the mistress of natural skincare. Her beauty mantra for 2026: “Support your skin, don’t fight it. That means fewer products, thoughtful ingredients and consistent care that strengthens the skin barrier.” Her hero product right now is the Rapadura and Wattleseed Body Buff ($60), to exfoliate and hydrate skin. This is a post-summer essential.
Ava Matthews and Bec Jefferd The duo behind Ultra Violette endured a challenging 12 months after consumer group Choice published an investigation alleging one of the brand’s products failed to meet its stated SPF rating. The brand recalled the product and launched its own investigation. Meanwhile, Matthews and Jefferd weathered the storm, which later resulted in recalls across other popular brands, by doubling down on product development, releasing Disco Queen SPF50 Luminous Body Oil ($55) while maintaining their stance in favour of sun protection.
Lauren Mackellar The founder of Robe Haircare has become one of Australia’s most requested hairstylists and is loved by celebrities (Zoë Foster Blake and Dua Lipa have both sat in her chair). Mackellar’s beauty mantra for 2026 is “consistency over correction”, adding, “There’s a real shift towards working with your natural texture and features. That approach leads to healthier hair, less frustration and a much more grounded relationship with beauty.” Mackellar’s current favourite product is Robe Leave-in Treatment ($70), which helps to restore balance and also acts as the perfect blow-drying balm.
Hilary Holmes The creator of Holme Beauty is a powerhouse of make-up knowledge, having honed her craft in London before launching her brand. She prides herself on her ability to pick what does and doesn’t work, saying she “wants people to feel incredible in their own skin”. Her go-to product of the moment is Holme Beauty Primer in Bang ($70). “I wear it on its own or under foundation and it totally changes the vibrancy of my skin.” Our pick of the company’s current range is Holme Beauty Soft Set Eye Primer ($35) to help smooth and mattify the eyelid, prepping it for eyeshadow application. Or wear it on its own for a nude finish.
ASK STEPH
What is the best way to apply eye cream?
Use your ring finger to gently apply product to the delicate area around and above the
eye. This finger is renowned for its light touch. Cooler weather calls for a richer cream; try IS
Clinical Eye Complex ($150).
Send questions via Instagram, @mrssdarling.
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