Introducing Skincare by Samuel Gravan

In this article, Samuel shares the inspiration and crafting processes behind his recently launched skincare collection.

I started experimenting with natural skincare from a young age. I’ve always been particular about what I put on my skin. In my late teens, I remember feeling dissatisfied with many of the products available. I would study ingredient lists and question the number of unfamiliar chemicals and preservatives being used. I simply wanted to know that whatever absorbed into my skin was natural and of the highest quality.

In my mid-twenties, I began making my own natural skincare. I started with a body wash, learning the traditional saponification process using olive and coconut oils, and later incorporating castor, sunflower and avocado oils into my liquid soap blends. Finding the right proportions took time, as did sourcing the best-quality oils. I also experimented with essential oils to add a gentle olfactive dimension.

I’m delighted to finally offer a body wash as part of this new skincare collection. After years of refining the formulation, this version is fragranced with a beautiful blend of geranium leaf and bergamot essential oils. It’s very gentle, non-drying, and suitable for all skin types. The texture is smooth, and the scent is crisp and zesty.

A similar—though slightly less concentrated—handmade castile base is used for the new face wash. I use this every day, as it is lightly foaming, purifying, and an excellent makeup remover. I usually follow with a face oil and a light application of moisturising crème.

Around 2018, I decided to develop my own face oils. I had always found commercial options a little lacklustre, which prompted me to research and source exceptional oils from around the world. I’ve spent years tracking down the highest-quality suppliers, and the difference is immediately noticeable—the freshness and potency are on another level.

The first fully realised face oil I created was the Rosehip Face Oil. I’ve used this blend personally for many years, but this is the first time I’ve presented it as part of a collection.

Its primary ingredient is an antioxidant-rich Bulgarian rosehip oil extracted through a slow CO₂ process—arguably the best method for preserving the full properties of the seed. I have tried countless rosehip oils. The one in this blend comes from a biodynamic, multigenerational Bulgarian farm, and the quality is unmistakable in both the depth of colour and its performance on the skin. It wears beautifully, without greasiness, and leaves a natural glow.

I’ve developed several other face oils, each with its own benefits. The Day Oil is lightweight—my morning choice—with a touch of orange blossom. The Raspberry Seed Night Oil is richer, with avocado oil for added nourishment, and a soft vetiver note that makes it a beautiful winter treatment. The Superfruit Face Oil is the most potent of the collection, featuring plum, raspberry, passionfruit and apricot kernel seed oils—all antioxidant-rich. It’s a luxurious and highly effective overnight treatment. I use it every two to three nights for an intensive boost.

After cleansing, I always apply a face oil and then finish with a moisturizing crème—and I have to admit, the crèmes are my absolute favorites. They have a beautifully refined texture without feeling greasy. Both the day and night crèmes are rich in shea butter, aloe leaf juice and apricot kernel oil, with more than 40 ingredients in each formulation. I add a subtle blend of rose absolute, neroli and sandalwood essential oils as well. They’re slow-absorbing and leave a soft matte finish.

Like the washes, the crèmes are made from scratch four times a year. They often sell out before the next batch is ready—which is ideal, as you’re always receiving a fresh product. I don’t use synthetic preservatives, so while the shelf life is shorter than mass-produced products, I generally recommend using them within three years, though 12 months is more ideal.

This collection has been years in the making, and it is incredibly exciting to finally launch it.

Every product is handcrafted using outstanding natural ingredients, and the gentle fragrance in many of them adds a luxurious sensory element. The skin truly glows—dewy, hydrated, and nourished. I hope you enjoy using these as much as I do.