The Rise of Biocompatible and Sustainable Skincare: Indigenous Ecological Knowledge in Action
Where Water Flows, Beauty Grows
“Like life, it finds its way—carving paths, creating beauty”.
It’s funny how life brings you back to things you didn’t know you were preparing for all along. If you had told us ten years ago that we’d be running an Indigenous-made skincare line, we might have laughed and said, “Sounds great, but that’s not our path.” Yet, here we are—Six Twenty Skincare is thriving, and every day feels like a beautiful fusion of past, present, and future.
A Journey with Purpose
The idea of biocompatible skincare wasn’t always part of our original plan, but it’s something we naturally grew into. Our work began with cultural and language preservation, youth wellness circles, and food sovereignty through Keepers of the Seasons. Spending time on the land with our community, teaching our youngest child, and reconnecting with ancestral teachings showed us that healing isn’t just medicine—it’s a holistic practice that nourishes the body, mind, and spirit.
As we learned more about the plants and natural elements we worked with, we fell in love with their stories. Every ingredient seemed eager to share its ancestral knowledge, reminding us about “the language of the plants.” This journey led us to Six Twenty Skincare, where each product we create honors the land, our ancestors, and those who trust us with their skincare needs.
Biocompatible Skincare: Working in Harmony with Nature
Biocompatible skincare is about working with your skin’s natural processes rather than against them. It means choosing ingredients that nourish, protect, and balance without causing harm or irritation. For example, bison tallow mirrors the natural oils in your skin, providing deep, non-comedogenic moisture, while rosehip oil is rich in vitamins A and C, helping to brighten and rejuvenate your skin.
We also incorporate botanical extracts like willow bark extract (Salix nigra), which is rich in salicylic acid, known for its natural exfoliating and anti-inflammatory properties. It gently promotes cell turnover, making it ideal for acne-prone and sensitive skinNefertem.
Our products are designed to work in harmony with your skin’s natural rhythms, blending time-honored practices with modern science.
Sustainability Through Indigenous Ecological Knowledge (IEK)
At Six Twenty, sustainability is more than just a value—it’s a responsibility we hold dearly. Guided by Indigenous Ecological Knowledge (IEK), we practice reciprocity with the land, taking only what is needed and ensuring that everything we use is sustainably sourced. We’ve made it a priority to wild-harvest our ingredients whenever possible, ensuring that we respect the cycles of nature and protect the ecosystems we rely on.
Some of the key ingredients that reflect this philosophy include sweetgrass (Hierochloe odorata), sweetpine (Pinus strobus), and sage (Salvia officinalis). These botanicals are not just symbols of cleansing and renewal in Indigenous culture—they also provide powerful benefits for the skin. Sage, for example, is known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it effective in soothing irritation and promoting clear skinNefertem, Bumblebee Apothecary.
We also utilize pumpkin seed extract (Cucurbita pepo), which is packed with antioxidants and essential fatty acids. This ingredient helps boost skin elasticity, support collagen production, and hydrate deeply, giving your skin a youthful, nourished glow Nefertem. The use of such ingredients ensures that our formulations benefit both your skin and the environment—sustainably gathered and deeply healing.
The Power of Sweetgrass, Sweetpine, and Sage
One of the most cherished aspects of our work is using Indigenous botanicals like sweetgrass, sweetpine, and sage. These plants have been part of healing and cleansing rituals for centuries, and we’ve integrated them into our products not just for their cultural significance, but for their skin benefits as well.
Sweetgrass (often used in our lotions and balms) has a gentle, uplifting scent and is known for its antimicrobial properties, helping to cleanse and refresh the skin. Sweetpine, also known as white pine, provides soothing, anti-inflammatory benefits, perfect for calming irritated or inflamed skinNefertem.
When you use our products, you’re not just nurturing your skin—you’re connecting with the deep traditions and healing powers of these plants, which have been used by our ancestors for centuries.
Empowering Through Skincare
It’s been a blessing to hear how our products have helped people with their skin issues. Whether it's dry skin, acne, or signs of aging, we’re honored to provide natural solutions that make a difference. Some of the common skin concerns we address include:
Dry Skin: Our Old Growth Lotion, rich in bison tallow and botanical oils, offers deep hydration that strengthens the skin’s barrier, locking in moisture and keeping skin soft and supple
Acne-Prone Skin: Willow bark extract in our formulations gently exfoliates and reduces inflammation, helping to soothe acne-prone skin without irritation
Signs of Aging: Pumpkin seed extract boosts collagen production and supports skin elasticity, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and giving your skin a youthful glow Nefertem, Bumblebee Apothecary.
Reflecting on Our Journey
As we reflect on this journey, we’re filled with gratitude for how far we’ve come. It hasn’t always been easy—last year we lost two of the most important people in our lives, Jenny’s grandmother and my father. Their passing only deepened our commitment to carrying forward the knowledge and love they shared with us.
Our recent experience at the Indigenous Made Market (Missoula, MT) was a beautiful reminder of the community that supports us. Our Lunar Silk serum sold out in just 30 minutes, and we’re excited to let you know it’s now restocked online. We’ve also released our seasonal Minnie's Kisses Pumpkin Spice Edition, which has already become a favorite this season. Plus, we’ve got ongoing sales and discounts on our site—so now’s the perfect time to stock up or try something new.
Get 15% off your purchase today with promo code: SIXTWENTY15OFF
Shop now and experience the power of nature’s finest ingredients in your skincare routine! Hurry—offer ends soon!
Looking Ahead
We’re excited for what the future holds. As we continue to grow, we’re working to make Six Twenty more accessible, including expanding into brick-and-mortar locations. But no matter how big we get, our values remain the same—honoring the land, our ancestors, and the people who trust us with their skincare.
Thank you for walking this journey with us. Whether you’ve been with us from the beginning or are just discovering Six Twenty, we’re grateful for your trust. Our products are more than just skincare—they’re a connection to the land, the plants, and the knowledge that has been passed down through generations.
Ready to explore our collection? Visit our site today and discover skincare that’s rooted in Indigenous Ecological Knowledge, formulated with care, and designed to nurture both your skin and spirit.
