Vegan Skincare, Simplified: Expert Advice from Katherine E. Blake
The Beautifully Nourished collection is made with naturally derived ingredients and is free from parabens, sulphates and harsh chemicals. The Vitamin ACE Moisturiser blends vitamins A, C and E in a vegan formula using organic ingredients. Lightweight and hydrating, it left my skin feeling balanced and fresh.
With Hyaluronic Acid, Sweet Fennel, Coconut and Apricot, it helps restore moisture and improve tone for a more radiant finish. The Brightening Eye Cream is gentle and absorbs easily, perfect for under makeup too. The Natural Retinol Alternative Oil Serum was a standout. Using a plant based alternative to retinol, it glides on smoothly and after the first night my skin felt noticeably fresher. The Nourishing Rich Night Cream has a more indulgent texture while still absorbing well, leaving skin feeling hydrated and cared for by morning.
We chat with Beautifully Nourished Founding Directior Katherine E. Blake to find out more....
Why was it important to you that Beautifully Nourished is completely vegan?
"Beautifully Nourished was always designed to be skincare that feels good in every sense; results-driven formulas that are kind to skin, animals and the wider environment. Being cruelty-free is completely non-negotiable. For me, it was important that Beautifully Nourished was both effective and consciously formulated. By creating a fully vegan range, every product is free from animal-derived ingredients and cruelty-free, while allowing us to focus on powerful plant-based actives, that nourish and support the skin.
Many botanical ingredients are naturally rich in antioxidants, essential fatty acids and vitamins that support skin barrier health and long-term skin vitality. As a nutritionist, I prioritise nutrient-rich ingredients that deliver deeply hydrating and nourishing results for the skin. At its core, Beautifully Nourished is built on the idea of balance in all forms."
What makes your Natural Retinol Alternative Oil Serum different from traditional retinol products?
"Traditional retinol products can be very effective, but they often come with irritation, dryness and sensitivity especially for people with reactive or hormonally fluctuating skin. Our Natural Retinol Alternative Oil Serum uses bakuchiol, a plant-derived ingredient that delivers many of the same benefits as retinol such as smoother texture, improved tone and support for collagen, but without the harsh side effects.
The formula is also suspended in nourishing botanical oils, which means it actively strengthens the skin barrier while it works. So instead of the cycle many people experience with retinol; irritation followed by recovery, the skin is being supported and replenished at the same time. It’s designed to give the benefits people want from retinol, but in a gentler, more skin-supportive way.
I heard that top models and actresses put layers and layers of moisturisers on their skin and especially at night – is this beneficial?
"Layering can be beneficial, but it’s often misunderstood. What many people call “layering moisturisers” is actually about layering different types of hydration. Skin needs water, humectants that attract hydration, and emollients that seal it in. At night, the skin naturally repairs itself, so using hydrating layers, for example a serum followed by a moisturiser can help support that process.
However, more products isn’t always better. If the formulas are well designed, most people only need two or three good layers: hydration, nourishment and barrier support (and always SPF in the day). Healthy skin usually comes from good nourishment (inside and out) consistency and using ingredients that support your skin and its natural changes, rather than relying on complex routines.
What’s the one top tip for skincare that we don’t know about?
"One of the most overlooked skincare tips is learning to understand your skin in relation to your natural hormonal cycle.
Throughout the month, hormones naturally fluctuate and this can affect everything from oil production and hydration levels to sensitivity and breakouts. Many women notice their skin feels clearer and more radiant around ovulation, while in the days before their period it can become oilier, more reactive or prone to congestion. When you start paying attention to these patterns, skincare becomes much easier because you can support your skin with what it needs at that time whether that’s calming, balancing or extra hydration.
It’s also important to recognise that skin changes through different life stages. Premenopausal and menopausal skin has different needs, particularly around hydration, barrier support and collagen maintenance. Skincare should be nourishing, supportive and effective for women at every stage, rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach.
Understanding your skin’s natural rhythms allows you to work with your skin and nourishing it beautifully, rather than constantly trying to correct it.
Thank you to Katherine and Beautifully Nourished for the products we have enjoyed trying out.
