Jess Hart rocked the Australian beauty industry when she launched quintessentially Aussie beauty brand LUMA in 2014.
Specifically designed to bring out the best in skin, LUMA offers a range of multipurpose skin and makeup essentials – infused with skin-loving ingredients and the illuminating power of crushed pearl – to enhance (never conceal) natural radiance.
Now, LUMA is ready to introduce LUMA 2.0; and to celebrate, BD chatted with Hart to find out everything from what’s next for the brand to her beauty must-haves.
What made you want to start Luma?
I have always been quite commercially minded and the beauty industry has always fascinated me. Back in 2013, I was introduced to a team who was just as passionate about the beauty industry as I was, which really inspired me to bring the brand to life. We first set out to create LUMA in 2013 and at that time there was a gap in the market for an affordable and natural cosmetics brand that took pride in its formulations. I have always believed in enhancing a woman’s natural radiance and complementing her features rather than masking them with heavy makeup – that’s the whole philosophy behind LUMA.
What has starting the brand allowed you to do that modelling and other endeavours haven’t?
With LUMA I have control over what we produce in terms of the products that go to market. I work alongside a really talented and passionate team who share my vision for the brand.
What’s the most important thing you’ve learnt along the way?
Trust your instincts and learn from people who are more experienced than yourself!
What’s next for Luma? Any exciting things in the pipeline?
Lots! We’ve just launched our newest product Beyond The Brow – it’s an amazing brow enhancer with fibres that fills and fluffs your brows to give a beautifully natural look.
Which are your go-to products, from both Luma and any other brands?
Our LUMA On the Glow Highlighter is one of my personal faves, as is the Beauty Beauty Body Oil – it’s a deliciously scented dry oil that moisturizes the skin and gives it a gorgeous illuminating glow. I also love LUMA Base Perfecting Priming Moisturiser - It’s a moisturiser with an in built primer infused with crushed pearl and Hyaluronic Acid to help hydrate and nourish my skin.
In terms of other brands I’m currently using Lepaar Skin’s Precious Face Oil - it’s a holistic luxury skincare brand based in the Southern Highlands in NSW. They use only bioactive and psychoactive ingredients. And Nu Skin Moisture Mist - it’s so cooling and hydrating and I instantly feel refreshed.
The warmer weather is upon us, what are your summer beauty tips?
My beauty tips are pretty much the same all year round except I’m a little more vigilant with the sunscreen come summertime, stick to sheer formulas like tinted moisturiser and a multitasking lip & cheek tint instead of thick foundation and lipsticks.