There is nothing like a soothing balm to help reduce discomfort or an enriching cream to nourish the skin and promote a youthful appearance.

Of course, ‘miracle’ lotions and potions come with a price and some may even be the result of unethical methods of preparation or may have been tested on animals and these issues can be a cause of concern for consumers.

But there is a way of ensuring your skin care routine is not only ethical, but is also locally sourced and produced, is kind to the environment and to your pocket. We spoke to three producers in Ireland who are involved in their skincare products every step of the way.

Elaine Kennedy lives on her family farm on the shores of Lough Carra in Co. Mayo where she runs her skincare company www.hawthornhandmadeskincare.com – which was borne out of a casual interest in 2005

“I first started making cold process soap as a hobby about 15 years ago after my sister bought me a craft book which contained a recipe for soap,” she says. “From then on, I was hooked on making my own products, but it was only in 2015 that I first considered starting my own artisan skincare business.

“I had been working in London for a number of years for a high-end fashion retailer and was longing to return home to Ireland. But while still in the UK, I accessed courses in product formulation and received mentoring on how to set up a natural skincare business. I then returned to my family farm in the heart of Mayo and after much research and development, launched my first products.”

All of her skincare range is produced by hand using natural ingredients and the entrepreneur says she is meticulous about ensuring that everything is perfect from start to finish.

“Production is carried out in-house in my custom-built manufacturing studio, so I can control what goes into the products and onto my customers skin,” she says. “Sustainable ingredients such as shea butter, rosehip oil and essential oils are blended to create skin nourishing products.

“The range is ideal for anyone seeking a natural approach to skincare and I have my parents, Seamus, and Kathleen, to thank for fostering a love of nature and sense of duty to preserve the precious landscape around us. Mindful of this, I only use sustainably sourced ingredients and easily recycled packaging.”

Although a relevant qualification is not necessary to start making products, Elaine says a good understanding of natural product formulation is a must and in accordance with EU regulations, product testing has to be carried out by an independent Cosmetic Chemist.

And having started out with just three products, her range has grown to 15 and includes products for the face, body, and hands.

“Our Rejuvenating Face Balm is our bestselling product and also one of the first I ever formulated,” she says. “It has a high content of Shea Butter which is renowned for its rejuvenating qualities. And most customers notice a difference in the texture of their skin within four weeks of consistent use.

“The products can be purchased online, and we are currently offering €5 off all first-time orders over €50 when you sign up to our mailing list. Our stockists range from independent family run businesses such Foxford Woollen Mills, luxury boutiques like Mrs Teas in Ashford Castle, to health and beauty spas and zero waste lifestyle retailers. A full list of retailers is available on our website.”

by ARLENE HARRIS

Magic Potions