For countless individuals, skincare routines represent an essential daily ritual, but according to one prominent medical expert, they should never become overly complex. Dr Joseph Hkeik, a distinguished aesthetic physician whose celebrated clientele includes Elle McPherson, Rita Ora, Eva Mendes, and Mel B, asserts that only three fundamental products are necessary for your beauty cabinet: a cleanser, a serum, and a moisturiser.
The Less-Is-More Philosophy Behind Lana Banana
'For the majority of people, this is all you require to maintain healthy, balanced skin,' the Sydney-based celebrity doctor explained to Daily Mail. 'The crucial element involves using the appropriate products consistently, rather than accumulating more items. Healthy skin emerges from supporting the natural barrier, not overwhelming it with excessive treatments.'
This minimalist philosophy directly inspired the creation of his skincare brand, aptly named Lana Banana, after his niece Lana Sayah presented him with a business concept. 'We firmly believe people do not need shelves containing twenty different products or to perpetually rotate through the latest trends, which frequently leads to wasted expenditure and compromised skin integrity. Instead, we advocate investing in a small selection of well-formulated products that are used regularly. A modest amount genuinely goes a considerable distance,' Dr Hkeik elaborated.
Industry Recognition and Award-Winning Success
Merely one year following its launch, the Australian brand secured Prevention's prestigious 2025 Best in Beauty Award for Cleanser, achieving the top position for its exfoliating cleanser. 'It honestly meant so much,' Lana revealed to Daily Mail, noting that the team had discreetly nominated the cleanser for the award without informing her. 'I had always known intuitively that the formula was something distinctive, but receiving recognition from industry professionals proved incredibly validating. It felt like a genuine milestone for the brand and a reminder that our approach truly resonates with experts.'
'Our Exfoliating Cleanser is award-winning for a valid reason. It delivers gentle exfoliation while preserving the skin barrier intact, leaving skin smooth, fresh, and balanced rather than tight or compromised. The fragrance is also absolutely divine,' she added.
Customer Reviews and Product Popularity
The thirty-five dollar cleanser stands as one of the brand's best-selling items, with enthusiasts awarding it five-star reviews and some even declaring they are 'honestly obsessed.' One shopper enthusiastically stated, 'Hands down the best cleanser I have used - it feels refreshing after a lengthy day at work.' Another shared, 'The Exfoliating Cleanser I now reach for above all others. My favourite step in my skincare routine, it leaves my skin smooth without irritation. The scent is so luxurious, reflecting its value. My new go-to skincare brand.'
A further customer commented, 'I adore this cleanser, definitely a high-end product but obviously worth the investment. It leaves me feeling thoroughly cleansed, especially since I wear SPF and prefer to remove it before bedtime. The scent is ten out of ten, making me feel like I am at a spa.' Another revealed, 'I had been apprehensive about trying exfoliators for the first time, but the Lana Banana one has been absolutely wonderful. It smells luxurious and feels even nicer. My skin glows the day after using this product.'
Origins and Mission of the Brand
Having collaborated with her uncle at his All Saint Clinic for over a decade, Lana felt inspired to launch the brand after observing younger skin becoming increasingly 'reactive and damaged' due to product overuse, conflicting advice, and trend-driven routines that weaken the skin barrier. 'I approached my uncle with the concept of creating skincare that cut through that noise,' she said.
On a mission to demystify skincare, Lana Banana streamlines the process with a three-step routine for morning and night - everything necessary to support skin health and strengthen the barrier. 'The sets are exceptionally popular because they eliminate all guesswork,' Lana explained. 'They are designed to be simple and intuitive, featuring a quick three-step routine that is clearly numbered, so you never need to worry about using products in the incorrect order or overcomplicating your skincare regimen.'
Expert Advice on Common Skincare Mistakes
Dr Hkeik, founder of All Saint Clinic in Sydney and Le Petit Saint in London, stated their products are ideal for anyone who feels 'overwhelmed' by skincare and desires simplicity in their routine. 'The range is doctor-backed, barrier-focused, and built around supporting long-term skin health rather than pursuing quick fixes,' he clarified.
'It is designed to simplify routines without compromising on quality, employing well-formulated, effective products that work with the skin, not against it. Whether you are new to skincare or seeking to reset your routine, Lana Banana offers a trusted, uncomplicated approach that delivers tangible results.'
Before developing the range, Dr Hkeik noted some of the most significant errors he observes people making include using excessive skincare products, selecting inappropriate ingredients for their skin types, or constantly switching between brands. 'Using too many active ingredients simultaneously, or the wrong actives, often creates more problems than it solves, such as irritation, sensitivity, breakouts, and a compromised skin barrier,' he cautioned.
'Much of this stems from trend-led skincare and conflicting advice online. Individuals are continually switching products, layering potent ingredients, and chasing rapid solutions rather than supporting long-term skin health. In clinical practice, we witness far superior outcomes when routines are simplified and consistent.'
Product Range and Future Expansion
He emphasised that Lana Banana's range has been 'intentionally edited' so people 'know precisely what to use, when, and why.' 'This is especially vital for maintaining healthy, resilient skin over the long term,' he affirmed.
The brand's Day and Night Sets commence at two hundred dollars, with each pack containing just three products: a cleanser, a serum, and a moisturiser. From a consumer perspective, Lana Banana's price point may appear premium, but Dr Hkeik noted it reflects the care, quality, and intention behind each item. 'Lana Banana is formulated using high-quality ingredients, manufactured in Australia to exceptionally high standards, and designed to deliver results without unnecessary complexity,' he said.
'When you consider cost per use, longevity, and the fact that the range replaces multiple products, the value becomes abundantly clear. You are paying for formulas that are effective, considered, and designed to support skin health over the long term.'
New Additions and Future Directions
Lana Banana's newest introduction is the Liquid Filter, a three-in-one foundation, makeup base, and primer, created to serve as your 'everyday, real-life filter.' 'I wear it daily on its own, and I am constantly asked what I am using because my skin appears so healthy and glowing,' Lana remarked.
'I am not fond of foundation for everyday wear, so this is the perfect alternative - it enhances my skin without concealing it. I ceased wearing foundation completely while testing it, and I was consistently complimented on how excellent my skin looked. That is what makes Liquid Filter distinctive - it refines, protects, and enhances skin so it still looks like natural skin.'
It utilises zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to physically filter UV rays, while also generating a soft-focus, blurring effect on the skin. Among the range, Dr Hkeik disclosed his all-time favourite product is the Night Serum. 'I appreciate how it gently refines the skin through controlled exfoliation while still supporting hydration and the skin barrier,' he described.
Lana and her uncle Dr Hkeik are aspiring to expand their range, particularly in the intersection where 'skincare meets makeup.' 'The Liquid Filter initiated that conversation, and it has opened the door for us to develop products that enhance skin while still supporting skin health,' she said.
'We will always remain faithful to our less-is-more philosophy, meaning every new product must earn its place. The focus remains on formulas that refine, protect, and simplify, so skincare feels intuitive and integrated into everyday life.'
