Conscious Beauty And Beautiful Minds: Interview w/ Nicola Elliott of NEOM Organics
Nicola Elliott was a journalist for 8 years, working between London, LA and NY. She loved her job, but fast living (working and partying) took its toll and she started suffering from awful anxiety and panic attacks. It was caused pure and simply but burning the candle at both ends and not looking after herself, she says today. Nicola decided a bit of a life overhaul was needed and — getting the basics in order first, taking time in fresh air, exercising, meditation, and she also trained as a nutritionist and an aromatherapist.
During those early days of playing with pure plant oils, she became fascinated with the power of Essential oils, of how they could effect our moods and emotions. She was blending constantly for her own anxiety until she finally created a blend (now called Real Luxury and one of her best sellers) that really worked to calm her down. It has 24 of the purest oils in it and is exquisite — Nicola still uses it every day. Second came a blend (perfect nights sleep) that she created for her sister who was having trouble sleeping, then Feel Refreshed for her husband who was a sports teacher and would come home feeling exhausted. Finally happiness for her friend who was feeling low.
Suddenly, the four pillars of well-being that she felt we need to keep in check, from that day to this — less stress, better sleep, more energy and a mood boost at times became clear — modern malaise’s that we all seem to be suffering from in one way or another. Her brand Neom works because they use 100% natural plant oils — no synthetics, and the most complex blends that work after being tested on thousands of people and at the highest possible percentage. Scent that really makes you Feel Good.
What was the first beauty routine you adopted as a child or teenager? Which emotions do you connect with this memory?
I always used an oil on my face from very young, it was rose hip and although oils took a long while to become known for being good for all skin types, it really helped with my combination teenage skin.
CONSCIOUS BEAUTY — What meaning do you give this term?
Conscious beauty — it’s about really knowing what you are putting on your skin and why, making choices for you and your lifestyle based on facts. I still find it so bizarre when women lather cream on but have no idea what the ingredients are or just blindly trust manufacturers. Do your research!
Which aspects of sustainability in beauty are especially important to you?
All aspects — from packaging to product to ingredient — it’s no longer a luxury or a choice it’s a basic hygiene factor for any brand.
When do you consciously feel beautiful?
When I’ve had a good nights sleep — nothing effects how you look or feel as much as a good nights sleep (or lack of it!)
Did your approach to beauty change within the last 1–2 years?
No — I’ve always had a less is more approach, know what suits my skin and believe in simple, good quality ingredients
How would you like to see the image of beauty change within the next 5 years?
I’m loving how the image of beauty is starting to feel more inclusive and it’s about keeping those representations wide and open to everyone. I hate the Instagram homogenous look of pouts and filters — it worries me for my daughter so I’d like that trend to disappear!
What or who inspires your beauty routine?
Confident, unique women everywhere
What is your best beauty advice to others?
Prioritise good sleep, work on stressing less and being happy
Is there anything you would like to share that we have not asked you here?
I’m glad that well-being is now being seen as a necessity rather than a luxury — but we need to keep banging that drum! It’s not selfish to look after yourself.
THANK YOU!
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Demee Koch about the MEDIUM interview series on CONSCIOUS BEAUTY:
Hello! I am a serial entrepreneur with more than 2 decades of experience in the health & beauty industry. This interview series is intended to create awareness about the movement of Conscious Beauty.
We are in a beautiful time of Conscious Beauty — you may have heard of this term, but what does Conscious Beauty mean, and why does it matter?
For us, beauty is a way to love — it is about self-care, art, nutrition, exercise, life, self-love. I invite you to become part of a movement that re-defines beauty. Let’s empower beautiful minds.
Thank you for being the change. I’m looking forward to learn from you. Reach out to me via LinkedIn.
Demee ❤︎
