Activated charcoal is the latest thing in wellness tonics, helping to trap chemicals and prevent their absorption, as well as assisting with digestive issues and bloating. But the use of charcoal in skincare is an ancient Asian beauty secret, harnessed for its ability to draw impurities such as sebum and toxins from the skin, up to thousands of times its own mass. Perfect for oily and congested skin, charcoal helps boost radiance, calm acne, rosacea and eczema, and improve the skin’s texture.

The Body Shop Spa of the World Himalayan charcoal body clay, $46.

Dermalogica charcoal rescue masque, $91.

Turmeric is a natural anti-inflammatory and you’ll often find the ancient Indian spice, which is important in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine, on the staple ingredients list at your local smoothie or juice bar. Taken internally, studies show turmeric can play a role in the prevention and treatment of conditions such as cancer, arthritis and other chronic illnesses. Topically, turmeric has been used for centuries to treat skin imperfections and improve radiance.

Kiehls cranberry seed masque, $75, from Farmers.

Origins mega-mushroom soothing face mask, $59.

Omega 3 fatty acids can be hard to come by in food sources, which is why chia seeds – one of nature’s richest providers of Omega 3 – are the seed du jour. It takes 1kg of chia seeds to produce 250ml of oil, which works wonders for all skin types – imparting essential minerals, antioxidants and amino acids to reinforce the skin’s moisture barrier and target fine lines.

Goodness certified organic chia seed oil, $24.

Sukin nourishing chia seed oil, $21.

Touted by Miranda Kerr as “the one thing I can’t live without” when she has a long day ahead of her, Noni juice is about as unpalatable as it comes (trust us, we’ve tried it). But the health properties of this South Pacific berry are far-reaching – high in antioxidants, Omega 6 and selenium, Noni leaf hydrosols and noni seed oil help to build collagen, improve skin elasticity, as well as reduce inflammation.

Pure Fiji body butter noni infusion, $46.

NARS optimal brightening concentrate, $118, from Mecca.

Cranberries have many uses – they are not only deliciously edible but can be used as a natural dye and they also have powerful healing properties, particularly in treating urinary infections. One of the key benefits of cranberry seed oil in skincare is its ability to be quickly absorbed by the skin – making it ideal for facial products. Vitamin E and antioxidants also help to protect from free-radical damage and Omega 3, 6 and 9 essential fatty acids are powerful hydrators.

Swisse cranberry antioxidant facial oil, $35, from Health Post.

Grown Alchemist deep cleansing facial masque with wheatgerm, ginkgo and cranberry, $ 57.

Fresh pomegranates are available in New Zealand for only a short time each year, but the benefits of pomegranate seed oil or juice can be reaped all year round in beauty products. The juice from these vibrant tangy seeds contains a bounty of antioxidants to protect skin from free-radical damage and has even been found to assist with the repair of damaged DNA. What’s more, it’s a terrific source of vitamin C which, when applied topically, can reduce skin roughness.

Weleda nail care pen, $20.

Oasis Beauty BB cream, $40.

Kiwifruit is packed with vitamin C, a nutrient essential for the production of collagen in the body, meaning this fuzzy brown berry is a powerful fighter against ageing. Rich in antioxidants, products containing kiwifruit and kiwifruit seed oil help to prevent damage caused by environmental aggressors, smooth wrinkles and improve the skin’s overall texture.

Evolu nourishing hand and cuticle cream, $24, from Farmers.

Antipodes kiwi see eye cream, $62, from Farmers.

The fresh water of young, green coconuts contains a near-identical electrolyte profile to that of the human body, which has made it a hit in the sports world. It’s also valued for its ability to help clear acne and skin blemishes. Coconut oil, both in its raw state and in skincare products, is an excellent moisturiser and anti-inflammatory, which is highly effective for dry, sensitive skin, as well as slightly oily skin. The oil also has the ability to penetrate the hair shaft and reduce protein loss, helping to increase smoothness and hydration in both the hair and scalp.

HydroPeptide soothing balm, $70.

OGX Coconut Water Weightless Hydration Oil, $20.

Hurraw Coconut Lip Balm, $7.