July 02, 2026
Founded in 2021 by Melburnian Kathryn Narelle, Gracious Minds was born from a deeply personal journey. After spending much of her twenties feeling disconnected and overwhelmed, Narelle discovered the transformative power of mindfulness, yoga and intentional self-care rituals. What began as a personal practice soon evolved into a vision for a skincare brand that would help others reconnect with themselves, too. The name even came from this realisation: knowing that being kind to herself, and giving herself grace, was a message that would resonate with so many.
In a world where brands launch hard and fast, and trends come and go quicker than you can even try them, Gracious Minds is the antithesis of the hustle. Built on the belief that skincare can— and should— be more than just the aesthetics, every product is an opportunity to slow down, reconnect and create moments of presence in everyday life. Combining science-backed actives with Australian native botanicals, the brand transforms daily routines into meaningful rituals designed to nurture both skin and wellbeing.
Australian-made and particularly suited to sensitive skin, the range harnesses the power of native plant extracts and naturally derived ingredients to nourish, restore and support the skin barrier. Sustainability also plays a role in the brand's philosophy, with vegan, cruelty-free formulations inspired by Australia's unique biodiversity.
Here’s a few Gracious Minds pics we think deserve a place in your routine:
Photosynthesis Retinol Alternative Elixir, $72: If you’re curious about retinol, but looking for a natural alternative, this one’s for you. Powered by bakuchiol, which mimics the anti-ageing and skin clearing benefits of vitamin A, and cold-pressed broccoli seed oil, it helps support smoother, healthier-looking skin while nourishing and strengthening the skin barrier.
Green Genes Regenerate Hydration Face Cream, $70: A lightweight, yet hardworking moisturiser, it’s packed with antioxidants (courtesy of kale extract), plus cold-pressed hemp seed oil to soothe and nourish and pea protein peptides to support collagen production. Suitable for both day and night, it’s fragrance and essential oil free, which means it won’t irritate sensitive skin.
Brightening Sheet Mask and Hydration Infusion Sheet Mask, $16: Biodegradable cellulose plant fibre sheet masks made with Australian botanicals? Say less. The Brightenting mask features Kakadu Plum as the brightening agent which has the world's highest source of vitamin C. The Hydration version has Hyaluronic acid (of course) with marshmallow exact to plump and soothe and native blue cypress extract to soothe and refresh.
More than just skincare, Gracious Minds invites us to embrace self-care as a ritual rather than an everyday routine — a nice little reminder that looking after our skin can also be an opportunity to look after ourselves.
Shop the Gracious Minds range now at MU.