Thing of beauty: the best British cosmetics brands

While the beauty industry is dominated by big, international names, sometimes it pays to look closer to home. These smaller-scale British brands offer luxurious lotions and potions that are natural, cruelty free and ethically-minded.

The Soap Co

If you're looking for products that do good as well as make you feel good, look no further than the Soap Co. Based in east London with a workshop in the Lake District, this cosmetic company is run by Clarity, a charity that supports blind, disabled and disadvantaged individuals in training and entering the workplace. Its chicly designed hand wash, lotions and soaps, available in natural scents such as black poppy and wild fig, white tea or bergamot and mint, have been put together with motivations just as ethical in mind. This especially comes through in the packaging, where the company has introduced a number of eco-friendly initiatives including containers made from old milk bottles, compostable labels and biodegradable glues.

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thesoapco.org

Skin & Tonic London

Sarah Hancock founded this skincare company after a diagnosis of endometriosis caused her to re-evaluate what she was putting into – and onto – her body. What began as making products for herself has grown into a business that now supplies its handmade organic and ethical products across the world from its premises in Hackney, east London. Following a 'less is more' philosophy, not only does Skin & Tonic focus on natural and necessary ingredients, but minimal and unisex packaging. As well as being 100 per cent cruelty free, it sources its components locally where possible, with the majority certified organic by the Soil Association. Sustainability also plays a key role, from the recyclable glass used in its containers to its programme of planting trees in the Suffolk countryside to offset the company's carbon footprint.

skinandtoniclondon.com

Elemental Herbology

Elemental Herbology is based on the philosophy that everything in life needs to work in harmony to create the perfect balance; when extended to skincare this means elements such as stress levels, nutrition and exercise play as important a role as the products you put on your body. Its extensive range is completely free from synthetic fragrances, artificial colourants and parabens, drawing instead from natural ingredients. Favourites include the Hyaluronic Booster Plus, which plumps fine lines and wrinkles and boosts complexions, and the award-winning Cool & Clear Facial Cleanser, ideal for acne-prone skin. The company works with reputable suppliers, non-profits and co-operatives to ensure that its raw materials from around the world are sourced in a way that supports local communities.

elementalherbology.com

Sister & Co

After discovering the health benefits of coconut oil on holiday in India, founder Sophie Thompson gave up a career as a lawyer in pursuit of finding the best grade of the product for her beauty regime. Since launching Sister & Co, coconut oil has remained a core part of the company's offering, which has since expanded to encompass other natural oils and ingredients. If prone to blemishes try the Bamboo Charcoal Deep Cleanse Detoxifying Soap Bar, while the moisturising Super Seed Facial Formula, incorporating cacay and rosehip seed oil, is gentle enough for everyday use.

sisterandcompany.com