
It makes sense that Alexandra Keating launched an ocean-powered beauty brand. She grew up on the beach in Australia (her dad is former Prime Minister Paul Keating), only to trade the east coast in for sunny Los Angeles.
Her brand, Uni, is a range of clinically-proven products that prioritise organic and biotech ingredients like algae, kelp and aloe vera. The brand is extremely transparent, avoiding anything superfluous, instead focusing on effective formulas that are good for the body, and safe for our waterways. Beyond this, they feel and smell incredible — every formula has a custom fragrance inspired by somewhere Alex has traveled too. It's an 'if you know, you know' kind of brand — the body serum has taken on a life of its own.
Keating also just launched her first ever body oil, a silky mix of kalahari melon, microalgae and passionfruit oil. it's absorbs quickly, but leaves the skin soft and gleaming — the perfect addition to your post-shower routine. To mark the launch, Keating shared her beauty routine with RUSSH, from energetically-charged perfume, to her dedicated daily bath.
What does beauty mean to you?
Feeling refreshed inside and out.
What about self care?
Taking time for oneself, whether that's having a bath or doing yoga. My self care day is always Sunday, I try not to work on Sundays...
Do you think your Australian childhood influenced this approach?
Definitely. Being in the sea is my happy place. I always feel and look my best when coming out of the ocean.
Tell me about Uni and how the brand went from an idea to what it is today?
I wanted to make a sustainable body care brand that would rival every other brand in the space. In order to win, our products needed to perform better, look better and have better fragrance profiles. To do that, I brought on the best talent, minds and creatives. I'm so grateful they're on the journey with me.
What's the product formulation philosophy?
We use sustainably farmed algae to drive skincare quality formulations for the body with clinically proven results.
Okay, onto your routine. What's the first thing you do when you wake up?
Check my email... Sorry, I wish I was more LA sometimes.
What does the rest of your morning look like?
Prenatal yoga and an outdoor shower. I cleanse my face in the shower with the Uni Face Cleanser, it's a product we created specifically for our partnership with SoulCycle, but have gotten such great feedback. Everyone is always asking me about it... It might need to make its way into our regular line-up. I follow that with Uni 24-Hour Body Serum and our new Golden Microalgae Body Oil on the body.
On my face, I use Drunk Elephant's Protini Moisturiser and SPF every day (I like the Mecca Cosmetica one). I also use the Saie Glowy Super Gel. I used to be into tinted moisturiser, but don't really use it during the day anymore.
If you are wearing makeup, what do you reach for?
I love NARS Blush in Orgasm, Dior Lip Gloss. I'm also a big fan of CHANEL Nail Polish, always in the shade Ballerina.
Do you have a signature scent?
Vyrao Georgette. It's perfect for the work week.
And what about your evening routine?
I’ll take a bath and then double cleanse my face. I put the Uni Body Serum and Oil all over. I’m also testing out a new face mask that I am extremely obsessed with...
Do you have any habits to prioritise sleep?
I always take a shower or have a bath before bed.
How do you nourish yourself after a big week?
I love alone time. Beach walks, long baths... Time by myself is the best.
Last one — any favourite beauty/wellness spots in your city?
Melanie Grant for skin and lymphatic drainage messages at home for my body! Wellpeople in LA is amazing for prenatal acupuncture. If you’re looking for a full spa — like cold plunges and a sauna session — Den Mother in Venice is the best.
Uni 24-Hour Body Serum
Uni Golden Microalgae Body Oil
Vyrao Georgette
CHANEL Nail Polish in Ballerina
Uni Skin Shield Body Wash
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