Driven by a desire to alleviate her son’s skin sensitivities, Kirsty Withers embarked on a mission to find a solution that would bring him comfort. Her search for relief led to a discovery that would not only transform his life but also revolutionise equine skin care.
A MOTHER’S DETERMINATION
Kirsty’s eldest son, who is autistic, experienced severe reactions to even the mildest of soaps and body washes.
“There’s an army of small men crawling over my body” was how her child described the intense tingling sensation caused by common hygiene products, including those with natural ingredients or marketed sensitive skin ‘friendly’. Traditional treatments, like steroid creams, proved insufficient as applications were required so frequently. Given her son’s neurodiversity, the reaction to the discomfort was acute and distressing.
Refusing to accept this as the status quo, Kirsty took matters into her own hands. She explored various medical and natural remedies, consulting numerous experts along the way.
It was through this relentless pursuit that she discovered the field of microbiology and its relevance to skin care. She learned that the skin, much like the gut, hosts a vast microbiome.
FINDING A SOLUTION
This revelation led Kirsty to seek out microbiome-friendly products. She found a Dutch company that offered a body wash specifically designed to be gentle on sensitive skin. Despite the high cost and lengthy shipping time, the product was a game-changer. For the first time, her son experienced bath time without an adverse reaction.
Seeing her son discover joy in something as simple as bubbles was a milestone moment and represented an emotional breakthrough for the whole family.
Quite literally this was a ‘magic formula’ and the key ingredients – combining next-generation pre, pro, and post-biotic ingredients with the benefits of bio-fermentation.
EXTENDING THE INNOVATION TO HORSES
Kirsty’s passion for horses and her background in the equine world made it a natural next step to explore how microbiome-friendly products could benefit them. With an extensive equine background, from breeder, groom and competitor coupled with her commercial acumen from years working in Major Events and Sports Partnerships, she saw an opportunity to apply her newfound knowledge to horse care.
Her background includes significant roles, such as the State Manager for the Australian Olympic Committee in South Australia and the current Festival Director of the Adelaide Equestrian Festival which hosts the Adelaide International 5* (1-4 May, 2025). This experience, combined with her journey and knowledge of the equine industry, paved the way for her next venture.
DISRUPTING THE GROOMING MARKET
Determined to bring the same relief to horses but also a more sophisticated and innovative approach to grooming, Kirsty partnered with an Australian manufacturer specialising in microbiome-focused skincare utilising breakthrough microbial research data banks and DNA sequencing.
Coupled with her extensive communications experience, she developed and launched Pure Steed – a groundbreaking range of ‘biotic’ grooming products designed to enhance and protect horses’ skin health whilst still delivering luxurious coats, manes and tails expected of horses presented for the elite levels of competition.
BIO-FERMENTED BOTANICALS
Bio-fermentation is at the heart of Pure Steed’s innovative approach. This scientific process uses microorganisms to ferment plant-based raw materials, which enhances their bio-active compounds and makes them more easily absorbed by the skin.
Enhanced Nutrient Profile: The fermentation process increases the concentration of beneficial compounds such as antioxidants, anti-inflammatories, proteins, amino acids, minerals, lipids, and vitamins. These nutrients help nourish and protect the skin.
Boosted Bio-activity: Fermentation generates a range of bioactive compounds like ceramides, peptides, polysaccharides, enzymes, and acids. These elements are crucial for reinforcing the skin barrier, reducing inflammation, and supporting overall skin health.
Improved Absorption: The fermentation process makes the ingredients more bioavailable, meaning they can be more readily absorbed and utilised by the skin, enhancing their efficacy.
A PROMISING SOLUTION FOR EQUINE SKIN AILMENTS
Pure Steed products represent a breakthrough in managing a range of equine skin conditions, with a focus on enhancing the skin’s natural resilience. By prioritising skin health and fortification, Pure Steed helps prevent inflammation and secondary infections, which are common complications in various skin issues.
The products are designed to support and improve the skin’s barrier function, making it more resilient to external irritants and pathogens. This proactive strategy not only helps in managing current skin problems but also works to prevent new issues from arising.
Pure Steed products offer a promising alternative for managing Queensland Itch. The key to their effectiveness lies in the unique formulation of Pure Steed Revive Conditioning Treatment, which contains beta glucans – natural compounds known for their soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
Kirsty recommends a two-step approach for optimal results:
1. Routine Washing: Horses should be washed with the Pure Steed shampoo, ensuring that the skin is thoroughly cleaned.
2. Conditioning: After washing, apply the Pure Steed conditioner and leave it on for 8 minutes. This allows the beta glucans to deeply penetrate and soothe the skin.
For best results, Kirsty advises using these products at least twice a week. Additionally, maintaining clean rugs is crucial to support overall hygiene and enhance treatment effectiveness.
WHAT HORSE OWNERS ARE SAYING
Although only recently launched, the Pure Steed range is already garnering praise – especially from those with sensitive-skinned horses. “I’m so impressed with Pure Steed,” says South Australian Julie Field. “My mare was itchy and showed signs of skin allergies. I tried everything on the market but still nothing worked to ease her itchiness. That was until I tried Pure Steed. Not only does she stand and relax while being washed now her itchiness is a thing of the past.”
Gillian Leach of Victoria has had a similar experience with her pony. “Even after one wash with Pure Steed shampoo, I was amazed at the difference it made to my pony. He used to be unbearably itchy after a wash, even with special non-itch shampoo, and now he doesn’t even try to roll. These are fantastic products that make him so much more comfortable!”
THE BENEFITS
While Pure Steed products are priced higher than typical shampoos and grooming products, their value extends beyond mere cleansing. They serve as both preventative and therapeutic solutions for equine skin issues. Regular use of Pure Steed can potentially reduce the frequency of skin-related problems.
Most importantly, Pure Steed offers significant relief for horses with sensitive skin, improving their comfort and quality of life. By investing in Pure Steed, horse owners can provide their equine companions with a more comfortable and healthier existence.
“At Pure Steed, we recognise the crucial role your horse’s skin plays in protection,” says Kirsty. “That’s why we’ve developed products that prioritise and support the skin’s essential functions, ensuring it performs its job effectively. By creating a dual-purpose product, horse owners don’t have to choose between a traditional shampoo and conditioner OR that of an equine skin health product – they can have it all in one bottle.”
Pure Steed has quickly established itself as a leader in the field of microbiome-friendly equine care. The premium range of products replenishes and supports the horses’ vital skin barrier, addressing common skin issues with innovative, science-backed solutions.
Kirsty Withers’ journey from a concerned mother to a pioneer in equine skin care illustrates the power of determination and innovation. Her story is a testament to how personal ‘human-led’ experiences can drive significant advancements in animal care.
We all strive to provide the best care for those we love, be they our children or our horses. Whether managing a specific skin condition or seeking to maintain optimal skin health, Pure Steed is designed to support and enhance the quality of life for your equine companion.
You can buy direct to by ordering online at www.puresteed.com.au, or find out more via Facebook or Instagram. Pure Steed will also have a shop at Equitana Melbourne (14-17 November), so be sure to drop by and meet Kirsty in person. If you would like to become a stockist, please email to Kirsty via hello@puresteed.com.au.
This article was written in conjunction with Pure Steed. EQ
