As a chef who spent years perfecting recipes in the kitchen, I’ve always been fascinated by the science of combining ingredients to create something nourishing. Little did I know that my culinary journey would eventually lead me into the world of skincare formulation. Today, at MIST, I approach skincare just as I would a recipe—by meticulously selecting ingredients, researching their benefits, and ensuring every combination works harmoniously together.

I started developing skincare products​ because I wasn’t happy with the products I was buying. My skin was reacting to the chemicals, ​I wanted to go completely natural and although I have used some great natural brands I realised I wanted more—some ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid work even better in combination with other potent actives like Niacinamide, Ferulic Acid and Lactic Acid and the only companies that were doing that were charging a fortune and combining them with the preservatives and chemicals that I was trying to avoid.

I know that skin, much like our gut, thrives on balance and proper nourishment. That’s why I’m so passionate about incorporating ingredients like Olive Squalene, which supports skin cell regeneration, and Frankincense, which works to even skin tone. These ingredients aren’t just added for their trendy appeal—they’re part of a bigger picture that focuses on long-term skin health.

The process of formulation is both a science and an art, much like cooking. It involves testing, adjusting, and refining until each product is just right.

In recent years, fermented ingredients have become the beauty industry’s unsung heroes, offering incredible benefits for your skin. At MIST, we’ve always been passionate about gut health and it’s role in overall wellness; my children literally grew up eating kimchi from 6 months old! The same fermentation process that’s great for your digestive system can also work wonders for your skin.

Fermentation breaks down the molecular structure of ingredients, making their nutrients more bioavailable—meaning your skin can absorb them more effectively. Fermented ingredients like prebiotics and probiotics can help balance your skin’s microbiome, soothing inflammation and boosting hydration levels. They’re also packed with antioxidants, which help fight off environmental damage and premature aging. The result? Skin that is healthier, brighter, and more resilient.

When formulating MIST products, we knew we had to include fermented ingredients because they align so perfectly with our philosophy of using natural, effective, and science-backed solutions. Plus, as someone who has always loved experimenting with fermented foods, it felt like a natural next step to bring these benefits into skincare. If you’re looking for a glowing complexion with minimal effort, you’ll want to consider the power of fermentation.

Takeaway: Fermented ingredients in skincare can improve nutrient absorption, enhance hydration, and restore balance to your skin’s microbiome—making them a powerful tool for achieving radiant, healthy skin.