Marisa Robinson is redefining the concept of beauty by embracing a slow and intentional approach, all while promoting compassion and kindness for those who lack a voice in the beauty conversation.
Recently, we had the opportunity to sit down with Marisa to delve into her insights on beauty, wellbeing, and her transformative journey toward living an authentic and cruelty-free lifestyle.
Discovering My Passion: The Unexpected Journey into the Beauty Industry
Surprisingly, my journey into the beauty industry was not a lifelong aspiration. My primary career has been in Digital Marketing, yet I have always harbored a creative spirit and a profound love for beauty. It was only natural that my path would eventually lead me to the beauty sector.
My fascination with makeup truly ignited in my early 20s when I first encountered Napoleon Perdis. I vividly recall stepping into their flagship store on George Street, Sydney, in search of my inaugural foundation. Little did I know, I would leave with an entire collection of makeup products! I quickly became a regular at their masterclasses, eagerly inviting my friends to join me. It felt like entering a makeup paradise, and my obsession with beauty blossomed from that moment.
Throughout my journey, I’ve always relished experimenting with colors and crafting various looks. However, it wasn’t until my late 20s that I made a decisive move to work within the beauty industry. While balancing a full-time job, I dedicated my weekends to studying for my Diploma of Makeup Artistry. This led to hands-on experience working at beauty counters, where I could refine my skills and knowledge while engaging directly with clients and products. During this period, I also provided bridal makeup services and was fortunate enough to work backstage at Mercedes Benz Fashion Week, a remarkable experience that further fueled my passion.
Simultaneously, I ventured into beauty blogging, now referred to as beauty content creation and User Generated Content (UGC) work. I delighted in testing and sharing new brands and products with my family, friends, and growing online community. Over the years, I attended numerous industry events, workshops, and product launches, continuously expanding my beauty collection.
However, it wasn’t until 2018 that I faced a pivotal moment where my love for animals clashed with my passion for cosmetics. The reality of animal testing in the cosmetic industry hit hard, and I felt a growing disconnect. Although I cherished the beauty products I had amassed, I realized I needed to make a significant change, transitioning to a cruelty-free beauty routine. I dedicated countless hours to researching and eliminating any non-cruelty-free products from my collection.
This transition was monumental, marking the most empowering detox of my life. I finally felt aligned with my values, embracing authenticity while advocating for the animals I hold dear.
This newfound passion inspired me to launch Wild & Cruelty Free, an online platform dedicated to Australian cruelty-free and vegan makeup, skincare, and wellness products that I personally use and adore. I passionately promote slow beauty routines and simplified self-care through my carefully curated selection of ethical beauty products, encouraging women to adopt a less-is-more philosophy. No animal should suffer for our vanity; thus, this initiative allows women to streamline their beauty routines while making a difference, as $1 from every sale is donated to support an animal sanctuary for those in need.
A Peek into My Daily Life: Balancing Work and Wellness
My mindful morning routine is non-negotiable, allowing me to ease into the day with minimal stimulation and digital distractions. Since I primarily work online, I begin my mornings with herbal tea, journaling, reading a few pages of a book, performing a gua sha facial massage, and enjoying a nourishing breakfast—this sets a positive tone for my day.
Each workday varies depending on whether I’m collaborating with digital marketing clients or managing my own projects. Typically, I start by checking emails and lovingly packing any Wild & Cruelty Free orders received overnight before diving into the tasks that demand my full attention.
My lunch breaks often coincide with my cat Bear’s mealtime, serving as a delightful reminder to step away from work. After lunch, I usually continue working through the afternoon before clocking off to enjoy a refreshing swim at the beach. Living near the stunning beaches of the South Coast is a blessing, and I’ve been exploring various ocean pools lately.
The aspect of my work I cherish the most is content creation and developing innovative concepts for both myself and my clients. There’s a lot that happens behind the scenes to produce the engaging videos you see on social media. Each moment spent working on Wild & Cruelty Free feels less like work to me because I am deeply connected to our mission and the positive change we are fostering.
Finding My Confidence: A Journey of Self-Discovery
Confidence has not always been a natural trait for me. In fact, it’s only now, at the age of 40, that I genuinely feel comfortable in my own skin. The more I discover and embrace my true self, the more my self-confidence has flourished. I find that I feel most confident when I prioritize my mind, body, and soul—if one aspect is out of balance, it significantly impacts my overall sense of confidence.
Overcoming Confidence Challenges: Advice for Others
I have experienced dips in confidence multiple times, and finding my way back has often been difficult. I usually lose confidence when I feel disconnected from my true self, so the key is to return to that inner home. Engage in activities that uplift you, wear your favorite outfit or color, dedicate time to your skincare routine, spend time with loved ones, dance, sing, and play—do whatever makes you feel good. When I focus on nurturing my inner self, that positive energy radiates outward, creating a magnetic aura that draws others in.
Embracing Balance and Health: Daily Self-Care Rituals
While some may perceive self-care as selfish or superficial, I firmly believe in the importance of sustainable self-care practices, which I incorporate into both my morning and evening routines. Beyond my gua sha and skincare rituals, I also regularly engage in red light therapy, sauna sessions, and practice meditation and breathwork. These practices help to clear my mind and open my heart.
However, nothing compares to being in nature, and I find immense joy in nurturing my garden and growing my own vegetables, which contributes to a balanced and healthy diet.
Becoming a Certified Gua Sha Teacher: The Benefits of This Ancient Practice
I am thrilled to have recently achieved certification as a Gua Sha teacher and can’t wait to share this powerful self-care practice with others. I have integrated Gua Sha into my routine for years, witnessing its remarkable benefits for my skin, which prompted me to delve deeper into understanding how this ancient Chinese technique can enhance both our inner and outer well-being.
The benefits of Gua Sha are numerous; it enhances microcirculation, which promotes the production of elastin and collagen—essential proteins that naturally decline with age. This technique can lift and sculpt the face, alleviate facial tension, soften fine lines and wrinkles, and support lymphatic drainage to expel toxins from the body.
Just as we dedicate time to exercising our bodies, it’s crucial to also exercise the muscles in our face and neck. Stagnant energy, or Qi, can accumulate in the body, but by performing intentional Gua Sha facial massages, we enhance blood flow and circulation, resulting in a vibrant and healthy complexion.
Importantly, the most profound benefit of Gua Sha is fostering a connection to oneself. Taking the time to understand your body and respond to its needs is a therapeutic act of self-love that nurtures both the body and soul.
Secrets to Achieving Confident, Glowing Skin: Essential Skincare Products
From a young age, my mother instilled in me the importance of cherishing and caring for my skin. At 14, she introduced me to a three-step skincare routine—cleansing, toning, and moisturizing—which has been a staple in my daily regimen ever since. I am incredibly thankful to her for fostering this habit early on, as my skin continues to benefit from it.
Alongside my daily Gua Sha practice, there are several skincare essentials I cannot live without: high-quality SPF, a gentle gel cleanser, a refreshing rose face mist, a nourishing facial serum or oil, and a purifying clay face mask. These products are integral to maintaining my skin’s health and vibrancy.
Moreover, achieving glowing skin is an inside job; I strive to drink at least 2 liters of water daily and fill my diet with fresh fruits and vegetables. Ultimately, when you are genuinely happy, your energy and essence radiate from within, resulting in a healthy and luminous complexion.
My Inspirations: Who I Look Up To and Why
My mother will always be my greatest inspiration and hero. She has faced numerous trials and tribulations throughout her life, yet nothing has diminished her sparkle. Her resilience and strength continue to motivate me, and she remains my greatest teacher.
Additionally, I admire any woman who unapologetically shows up as her authentic self, boldly embracing her uniqueness.
Empowering Young Women: Embracing Authenticity Despite Fear
Although it can be easier said than done, the key is to cultivate a deep love for yourself so that the opinions of others don’t affect you. Remember, other people’s perceptions of you are not your concern, and most people are too preoccupied with their own lives to judge you.
Life is far too short to live small or be anyone other than your beautiful, authentic self.
Marisa Robinson
Founder of Wild & Cruelty Free and Ethical Beauty Content Creator
https://www.wildandcrueltyfree.com.au
https://www.instagram.com/wildandcrueltyfree_