Elizabeth's Story

I was searching for natural skincare that offered the same benefits as prestige brands – but using pure New Zealand ingredients that were independently and scientificallyvalidated. That personal quest turned into a trailblazing scientificgreen beauty brand which has won global fans and award for combining nutrient-rich New Zealand bioactive ingredients with science and innovation to produce high-tech, premium formulations.

Science has always been a big part of my life. Before embarking on an MBA, I studied for a biology degree; after graduating, I was fortunate to win a highly competitive role with a US-based international surgical corporation which pioneered technology for laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery. Having trained in New York, I became the sole representative for New Zealand and Australia, training surgeons and registrars to use the specialised equipment. My eight-year stint with the company was transformative, teaching me valuable lessons that I brought to Antipodes: innovation, creativity, robust scientific validation – and a belief that business can be a force for good.

My introduction to a natural lifestyle came as I was raising my three young children. Strongly encouraged by myfamily who were on their own personal quest for improved health and wellbeing, I discovered raw juices, supplements, and natural ingredients, and started making the switch to a plant-based way of life. At the same time, I was scouring the world’s skincare for a hydrating product that could alleviate my dry skin– butcouldn’t find anygreen beauty products that performed as well, or felt hydrating enough, as the conventional brands I was using. I listened to my body, the way this nutrient-rich lifestyle made me feel healthy and energised. I wanted to capture that feeling in skincare.

And that’s how Antipodes was born.

Working alongside surgeons for years, I learnedthere’s no room for error,which is whyI’m rigorous in the preparation of every Antipodesgreen beauty product – and why they can take up to 18 months of research and development to perfect.I’m not willing to compromise on quality. I am committed to delivering the highest performance natural skincare wepossibly can.

I wanted to prove to customers that they could rely on our scientists’ breakthrough research to produce eco-mindedgreen beauty that was kinder to theplanet, but was also results-driven and raised the bar when it came to improving the appearance and health of skin. Devotees can rely on our scientists’ clinical findings and trust that Antipodes products do help to improve your skin’s appearance.We’re trailblazing a new niche ingreen beauty globally.

By combining my twin loves of science and nature,I’m proud to have created a beautiful,cutting-edge brandthat’s not only good for your skin and the planet but also gets results. We choose to use clean New Zealand ingredients, we partner with suppliers who align with our values, andwe’veretained manufacturing in New Zealand.

Now,we’re taking that to the next level and paving a new path in sustainablegreen beauty – with a goal to achieve 100% plastic-free, kerbside recyclable packaging, and ingredients that meet strict traceability criteria. I want to show my children you can build a life by sticking to your values and beliefs.

The Antipodes team

“Antipodes is a privately owned business, with an agile mentality. From product development and creative right through to launch of products we do things efficiency whilst listening to market trends.

“Our team has been instrumental in supporting our growth and building the brand through its various stages, alongside keeping a smoothlogistics flow. The constant exchange of ideas and information, sharing and challenging one another with creative concepts and consumer insights, has led to unique products and a brand that is truly trailblazing in look and feel. Together, we have pushed the boundaries.

“Our team is supported by our beloved dogs, Molly, Aspen and other furry friends!”

ELIZABETH BARBALICH, ANTIPODES FOUNDER & CEO