I discovered Honua Skincare nearly a decade ago at the Indie Beauty Expo, where I had the pleasure of experiencing Aloha Youth Serum, which made my skin supple and soft. The ingredients are ethically and sustainably sourced from the Hawaiian islands. Kapua Browning, the founder, explained that her products drew upon her cultural wisdom of Hawaiian beauty rituals, her expertise as an aesthetician, and the spirit of ‘aloha‘ – passion and love.

Inspired by my trip to O’ahu, I decided to try the complete Honua Ritual Facial Set ($148) while traveling to Hawaii. The ritual consists of four products: a cleanser, exfoliating toner, serum, and oil. The ritual is designed to infuse hydration at each step.

Pa’akai Cleansing Cream – A creamy and nourishing cleanser made of antioxidant-rich hibiscus. Hawaiian sea salt, or pa’akai, is anti-bacterial and abundant with minerals like potassium, calcium, magnesium and sodium. The cleanser also uses coconut water and seaweed extract.

Hawaiian Beauty Water – An exfoliating elixir of papaya enzymes and hibiscus. Witch hazel is balanced with aloe juice and rose water. Willow bark and kō also gently break down the dead skin. No rinsing necessary.

Aloha Youth Serum – My favorite serum, which uses noni, kamani and kukui oils to promote elastin and collagen production. Bakuchiol is a plant-derived retinol alternative, and evens skin tone by penetrating skin and reducing the appearance of spots.

‘Ōlena Beauty Oil – an oil rich with antioxidants and fatty acids that penetrates the skin quickly. 1-2 drops help to treat the root of aging, acne, dehydration, sun damage, psoriasis, eczema and many other issues your skin might manifest.

On my travels, I incorporated the Malu Day Cream with SPF30, which is formulated to be nourishing and not harmful to the ocean. Intended to be applied every two hours, I carried it in my purse.

The products are formulated without parabens, petroleum, pesticides, PEGs, propylene, silicones, sulfates, phthalates, artificial colors, or fragrances.

I was glowing throughout my trip, and decided to incorporate the ritual into my life. I love that I recognize the ingredients on the label, and that it incorporates plant-based ingredients from Hawaii. Most importantly, my skill feels hydrated and I haven’t broken out.