I love a beauty brand with resonance, and new to the UK from the azure shores of Greece, is award-winning Greek brand Kear (written as – κέᾰρ) which has exactly that – with it roots in the ancient Greek formulas of skincare and an all-natural approach.
Part of the brand’s collection of 100% natural products are four different multipurpose balms, which harness the power of the first recorded cosmetic ingredients of beeswax and olive oil – giving a buttery formula that naturally protects and boosts the skin’s condition. All Kear products are free from synthetic chemicals, toxic preservatives, artificial fragrances, parabens, silicon, petroleum and are never tested on animals. They are also produced exclusively in Greece, from locally sourced raw materials thus ticking the eco and clean skincare boxes.
At the centre of the brand’s philosophy is indeed an eco-aware approach. Firstly, because the balms can double-up in usage – they are equally effective on eyes, neck, décolletage, and even hands, heels, and cuticles – it means that you don’t need a multitude of products, so you will consume less and therefore reduce your packaging and waste. Due to their highly concentrated texture, you also only need a small amount as a little goes a long way. Secondly, because they are locally made, they honour their provenance, history, and people behind it, which also means there is a reduction in the company’s carbon footprint and a respect for nature by ensuring all the product packaging is recyclable.
I have been trialling two balms – one for the body and the other for the face. Firstly, is the Plant Heroes Body Balm, which tackles stretch marks, cellulite, or skin that is dry or lacks elasticity. It feels utterly luxurious and indulgent to use, with a formula that contains olive oil, beeswax, chamomile, calendula and St. John’s Wort for deep hydration and to rejuvenate skin cells. After a bath or shower, it sinks into the skin easily, and is enriched with Vitamins B and E to stimulate collagen, boost circulation, repair damaged skin, and restore hydration.
Above all, this feels super-luxe to use, glides on to limbs, and just feels like it is packed with natural goodness (which it is!) Skin looks more firm, toned and radiant after using.
Next up is the Age Defying Face Balm, made from a blend of plant-based skin beneficial nutrients. Beeswax, calendula, and propolis soothe and regenerate the skin, reducing the appearance of wrinkles. While a trio of antioxidant ingredients – extra virgin olive oil, sea-buckthorn berry and grape-seed oil – fight free radical damage and promote moisture restoration for velvety, glowing skin.
After cleansing, warm the balm in the palm of your hands and press on the face. It feels non-greasy and light – a little goes a long way so you don’t need too much. The Face Balm has a lighter texture and weight than the body balm, and both have the most subtle botanical scents, which is not over-powering, but, rather, gently uplifting.
Also in the Near collection are body oils, lip balm sticks and soaps. I really love the authentic feel to these products – there’s nothing overtly complex, you know what you are putting on your body and face, and, what’s more, the know-how has been handed down over many generations, harnessed from ancient formulas as made by Greek scholars and philosophers, yet adapted for today’s consumer.
Finally, a word on the aesthetic – which I adore – from the gorgeous Greek colours of a azure and sea-green to the squiggles and patterns that adorn the boxes (to represent traditional Greek lettering and symbols to reflect the sea and heritage). These feel weighty and substantial and simply gorgeous to keep on your bathroom shelf (not throwaway). Inside, the products are housed in beautiful white glass containers, with wooden screw tops. It’s so thoughtful – reflecting a timeless feel and giving a nod to its natural roots.
*This review is based on press samples
