Our Story
Where It All Began
Hello, I'm Rebecca, founder and formulator behind Be Wise Skincare.
Much of my childhood was spent at Lake Clearwater in New Zealand's Southern Alps, immersed in nature and the changing seasons.
It was here that my lifelong connection with the natural world and the rhythms of the seasons began.
As a child, I was forever gathering leaves, flowers and herbs to create little "nature potions", never imagining that this simple curiosity
would one day inspire my own botanical skincare journey.
Over the years, my own experiences with sensitive skin, periods of ill health and a growing interest in natural wellbeing
led me to explore more holistic ways to care for both my skin and body.
In 2015, I completed a Diploma of Natural Skincare through a practising herbalist,
deepening my understanding of whole-plant skincare and the traditional use of herbs to care for myself and my family.
Today, I live in Whitecliffs Village, West Canterbury, with my partner and our two teenage boys.
Here I continue to grow herbs, prepare my own signature herbal oil infusions, and formulate nourishing skincare inspired by nature.
Every product is handmade in my small apothecary studio,
where each formulation is carefully prepared in small batches with quality, care and intention.
Our Philosophy
I believe true skin health begins with caring for yourself as a whole.
Nourishing your body with wholefoods, keeping hydrated, spending time in sunshine and nature, enjoying restful sleep and relaxation, connecting with the people we love, and embracing interests that inspire us, and give us a sense of purpose all contribute to our well-being.
In a world that often encourages us to chase perfection and quick fixes,
I believe there is another way—one that embraces the wisdom of nature,
honours the beauty of ageing gracefully and nurtures lasting vitality.
Every Be Wise formulation is thoughtfully crafted using pure plant ingredients, unrefined plant oils,
herbal infusions, and carefully selected natural ingredients that work in harmony with your skin.
My hope is to gently inspire women to embrace their own natural beauty,
enjoy simple self-care rituals and nurture themselves with intention through every stage of life.
Nature is where the wisdom lies
Our Commitment
Every Be Wise formulation is guided by thoughtful choices that honour people, plants, animals and our natural world.
• Whole-plant, natural and organic ingredients, chosen for their purity, quality and affinity with the skin. Gentle formulations designed to support healthy, balanced skin, including sensitive skin.
• Homegrown and locally sourced herbs and botanicals, harvested seasonally at their natural peak, then gently dried and prepared through traditional methods including herbal oil infusions and botanical powders. Only what is needed is taken, with gratitude and respect, honouring the plants and the delicate ecosystems they are part of.
• Working with plants connected to our surrounding landscape creates a deeper connection between the land, the maker and each formulation.
• Ingredients sourced from trusted suppliers in New Zealand and globally, supporting mindful businesses and small growers who value quality, purity, sustainability and regenerative farming practices.
• Pure essential oils are used for their healing properties and delicate natural aromas, creating a sensory experience through our formulations and moments of everyday ritual. Added sparingly at low, skin-friendly percentages.
Essential oil-free options are available for those who need them or simply prefer them.
• Cruelty-free and never tested on animals. We deeply love and respect animals and believe they deserve kindness, care and compassion.
Our Ingredient Promise
Be Wise products contain no synthetic ingredients, including synthetic preservatives and fragrances. No unnecessary extras. Just carefully chosen natural ingredients your skin will recognise.
A Note About Natural Parfum
When you see “natural parfum” listed in our ingredients, this refers to Naticide — a gentle, plant-based preservative made from natural essential oil components. It is used only in our water-based cream formulations containing hydrosols, where it helps keep them safe and stable.
Due to cosmetic labelling regulations, we are required to list its official ingredient name, “parfum”, rather than the trade name Naticide on our packaging. We use the term “natural parfum” to provide clarity and reflect our commitment to naturally derived ingredients.
Caring For Our Earth
Caring for our skin also means caring for the world around us.
I strive to reduce unnecessary waste wherever possible by choosing recyclable and
reusable amber glass jars, aluminum lids and tins.
Orders are carefully packed using Eco-friendly materials,
with many packaging supplies thoughtfully reused here at the studio.
Local customer are encouraged to return their glass jars for reuse, and refill options are available for selected products.
This is an ever-evolving journey, and I remain committed to continually finding better ways
to reduce my environmental footprint.
A Slower, More Sustainable Way Forward
For me, slow beauty is about returning to a simpler way of caring - valuing quality over excess, respecting nature's rhythms and creating products with intention. By working with plants seasonally and embracing traditional methods, we honor the natural world and the wisdom it provides.
I believe skincare can be a small daily ritual of connection- nourishing your skin while remaining mindful
of the earth that sustains us.
With heartfelt thanks, I am grateful to everyone who supports my small business
and is part of this journey of gentle self-care.
Warmly,
Rebecca
