From Java’s White Tea to Bali’s Green Coffee and the powerful local botanicals in between
When people think of antioxidants in skincare, they usually jump straight to vitamin C. But the truth is, that’s just the beginning.
Antioxidants are your skin’s defence squad.
They help neutralise free radicals — unstable molecules triggered by sun, stress, and pollution — which can lead to premature aging, inflammation, and dullness. In short, they’re essential for daily protection.
And lucky for us, Indonesia is home to some of the most potent and underrated antioxidant-rich botanicals in the world. From soothing inflammation to restoring glow, these five local ingredients don’t always make the global headlines, but they’re the quiet heroes behind some of our most beloved formulas.
1. Java Black and White Tea
Found in: White Tea Ultra Light Protective Sun Serum & Java Black Tea Soothing Gel Cleanser
Tea isn’t just for sipping — it’s your skin’s quiet MVP.
White tea is rich in catechins, antioxidants that help shield skin from pollution, UV damage, and early signs of aging. Think of it as your invisible daily environmental shield.
Black tea, which undergoes more oxidation, is packed with theaflavins that calm inflammation and strengthen the skin barrier. It’s especially helpful for redness-prone or reactive skin.
Why your skin will love it: If you live in a city (should we put this city thing), have easily irritated skin, or just want everyday resilience, these teas have your back.
2. Mangosteen Peel
Found in: Mangosteen Brightening Serum
You’ve probably eaten mangosteen — but it’s the peel that holds the real skincare magic. Packed with xanthones, it’s one of the most antioxidant-rich tropical fruits around. These compounds help neutralize free radicals, balance oil, even out tone, and calm acne-prone skin.
Why your skin will love it: If you’re dealing with dullness, congestion, or dark spots, this lightweight serum helps bring your natural glow back.
3. Guava
Found in: Guava Moisture Barrier Gel
One guava contains more than four times the vitamin C of an orange. But its benefits don’t stop there. Guava is also rich in lycopene, a lesser-known antioxidant that helps reduce sun damage and support collagen production.
Why your skin will love it: If your skin barrier is stressed or sensitive, this refreshing gel deeply hydrates while calming irritation and supporting repair.
Pro tip: While both guava and red fruit are antioxidant powerhouses, this one focuses more on soothing and restoring your skin barrier — perfect for daily moisture and recovery.
4. Papua Red Fruit
Found in: Papua Red Fruit Plumping Cream
Grown in the highlands of Papua, buah merah is one of nature’s richest sources of beta-carotene and vitamin E. These antioxidants are known for their deep moisturizing and skin-repairing properties.
Traditionally used to heal and protect the skin, buah merah now sits at the heart of a cream designed to plump, nourish, and visibly smooth.
Why your skin will love it: If your skin feels dry, tired, or you’re after a boost in elasticity, this one’s all about repair and glow.
Pro tip: Compared to guava, this formula leans more into anti-aging and replenishing moisture for dry or mature skin types.
5. Bali Green Coffee
Found in: Bali Green Coffee Espresso Cream
This isn’t your average caffeine fix. Green coffee extract is rich in chlorogenic acid, which helps brighten dull skin, reduce puffiness, and fight inflammation.
Why your skin will love it: If your under-eyes look tired or your skin needs a gentle wake-up call, this energizing cream will revive your mornings — no espresso required.
The Key Takeaway
These antioxidant ingredients may not be household names like vitamin C — but they’re just as powerful, and grown right here on the islands we call home.
Each product is formulated not just to treat your skin, but to honor Indonesia’s biodiversity and skincare traditions. Different formulas, different strengths, but the same goal: to protect, restore, and reveal your healthiest skin.
Because at From This Island, we believe beauty comes from the ground up. One that is rooted in knowledge, made with care, and always gives back to the places that inspire us.
So the next time you reach for our products, remember: you’re not just treating your skin. You’re supporting a whole island story.
