Let us start with a quote from one of our fave beauty brands – “We’re proud to be British and even prouder to be a London-made brand. So much of the world’s beauty products are made by just a few big cosmetic powerhouses in France and the USA. Cosmetic manufacture is not something Britain has previously been known for but we are famous for innovation so when the two come together you get something altogether different and forward thinking.” Sarah Brown, creator of Pai Skincare

Great Britain is, well, pretty jolly great. Who else can do drama like Made in Chelsea (or Towie for that matter), invent Marmite, or make a cuppa quite like us? Exactly. But it’s British beauty brands that are really something to be proud of. So, in celebration of St George’s Day, we are celebrating all things beautifully Blighty.

Jo Loves
If you haven’t heard of Jo Malone, then seriously – what rock have you been hiding under? Having sold her self-titled luxury brand nearly 15 years ago, in 2011 she was back with a new fragrance line – Jo Loves. Inspired by her love of cooking and playing with food, flavours and colours that she had never used before, Jo Loves is a celebration of smells that evoke emotions or memories from her life – be it the scent of her husband’s cologne, a horse’s saddle or the rain in New York.

Top Pick: Pomelo – £95.00

Clean, crisp and fabulously fresh – Pomelo is fast becoming our new scent obsession. The first fragrance Jo created in over 5 years, it’s a citrusy cologne that’s as refreshing as having a glass of iced fizzy water with a big old slice of lime. With base notes of suede and patchouli, middle notes of clove and vetiver and top notes of pink pomelo and rose – it also has a masculine side, perfect if you don’t want a super sweet scent.

This Works

Founded in 2003 by International Journalist and Beauty Expert, Kathleen Phillips, This Works is a range of high performance products made from the finest, highly concentrated and naturally active ingredients. All for being straightforward, honest and real – there are no false promises here. These products deliver and, you guessed it – they work.

Top Pick: Perfect Legs Gradual Tan – £38.00

A lover for your legs (and indeed your entire body) this streak-free serum develops over a few days to leave you looking sun-kissed and golden. Free from nasty chemicals, colours and fragrance, it contains Vitamin C and E to even out skin tone – combating imperfections for pure pin perfection. A true summer essential.

Borealis Natural Skincare

Only a year old, Borealis Natural Skincare is a baby in the beauty world – but it has seriously caught our attention. From cleansers to toners, body lotions and cellulite busters, they have it all. 100% natural, organic, fair-trade and handmade in the UK – how could it get any better? We predict big things.

Top Pick: Rose & Geranium Rejuvenating Face Oil – £22.50

Developed to aid the healing process for damaged or over exposed skin, this oil not only smells amazing (it contains rose, geranium and lavender) but it helps reduce signs of aging and helps to balance and harmonize. Vitamin E, kiwi seed, rosehip and evening primrose oil firm and smooth skin contours for a rejuvenating revelation.

Aromatherapy Associates

Founders, Geraldine Howard and Sue Beechy, have been leading experts in aromatherapy for over 30 years, and since joining forces in 1985 their creations can be found in leading spas and hotels throughout the world. Their aim? To share the true power of essential oils and show how they have incredible effects at a therapeutic level. These products use active botanicals and expertly blended essential oils not only to keep skin healthy, but to transform our moods and aid our emotional state.

Top Pick: Inner Strength Bath & Shower Oil – £39.00

Created by Geraldine during her treatment for cancer, Inner Strength was born out of a need for strength, courage and positivity. Clary sage uplifts, frankincense helps to focus and calm the mind, cardamom and rosemary fortify physical strength, rose and vetivert calm and heal, whilst geranium helps to balance emotions and stimulate circulation. 10% of all proceeds go straight to the ATK Foundation (of which Geraldine is a patient), which is working on developing a new cancer vaccination. A truly powerful product for a powerful cause.

Pai Skincare

After years of battling skin allergies, ex-PR guru Sarah Brown decided to take matters into her own hands and in 2007 she created a range of organic, chemical and irritant free skincare. Ideal for those with sensitive or problem skin, Pai focuses on natural, active ingredients with proven therapeutic properties, that has not only won us over – but has the likes of Natalie Portman as one of its supporters.

Top Pick: Kukui & Jojoba Bead Skin Brightening Exfoliator – £20.00

Exfoliators can leave skin irritated and aggravated, but this super gentle formula de-flakes and polishes skin without damaging cells. A gel that transforms into a silky milk, it’s rich in omegas 3 & 6 and vitamins A, D & E to lock in moisture, while jojoba seeds lift dead cells and surface impurities. Use after the Camellia & Rose Cleanser and you will be refreshed and radiant in a jiffy.

by Frankie Rozwadowska