Natural beauty products: The best organic beauty companies

The recent boom of organic beauty companies and natural beauty companies made me think: What does Canada have to offer? I've tracked down the best natural beauty companies and organic beauty products across the nation whose products are not only good for you but will make your skin glow.

Pure Simple
Starting out as an organic spa in 2000 this company quickly exploded into three locations across Toronto and their own organic cosmetic line. Kristen Ma, co-founder, says that in order to develop a cutting edge organic makeup line they wanted to ensure it was made of completely pure ingredients, more moisturizing, affordable and hassle free. Switching over from lavender wax, the makeup is now pressed with copaiba oil giving it a creamier consistency that holds hydration better. Purchasing finely milled minerals Pure Simple goes one step further and mills them again. This micro-pulverization creates a smoother look that settles into fine lines giving an even application. Pure Simple cosmetics are for a no fuss kind of woman. No buffing required these pressed compacts also will not spill inside your new favourite handbag. These products are an all-in-one sun barrier and anti inflammatory that won't clog your pores. With 24 foundations and 27 face colours you're sure to find a match at Pure Simple. If shopping online you can send a picture of your skin or name of the makeup you're using now and they'll hunt it down to find just the right product for you. Check out pureandsimple.ca to peruse new fall colours.


Nadarra
Julia Michener had a skin condition for years and couldn't seem to find products that could calm her face. After thorough research she discovered that a lot of ingredients in products she was using were allergens. She says, "I developed a skin cream, used it for about a week and it totally got rid of my condition." Inspired by this savior cream, Julia then traveled to India and studied Ayurveda, an East Indian holistic health. Upon returning home she launched her company in March 2005 as an all natural beauty alternative. There are now ten products in her line which includes moisturizers, cleansers and sprays. The name Nadarra was chosen because it means 'natural' in Gaelic, and that's what Julia's company is all about. Some may be skeptical if it's not found at Shoppers, but Julia assures that, "These products smell just as good as the ones with chemical fragrances in them, and they work even better. People who have skin sensitivities find Nadarra products to be really beneficial." Not satisfied with products that are loaded with fragrances and preservatives? Your solution awaits at nadarra.com. Also keep an eye out, er...literally, as Julia launches an eye cream this fall.

Sultry Suds
Toronto- based Sultry Suds has been creating luxurious soaps, sans synthetic ingredients, since 2004. Head Artisan, Jenna Scott, studied herbal medicine at the Dominion Herbal College and started making soap as a hobby. As a trained herbalist Jenna says what makes her products unique is, "When we are formulating our products we don't only think of making it smell good, we try to make it therapeutic as well. We use oils that will really soothe the skin. Our products are also still hand made in small batches with olive, coconut and palm oils." It's not just the products that are environmentally friendly, the packaging is recyclable and the labels are printed on 100% recycled paper. With something for everyone, her products include natural soaps and bodycare for men and women and a babycare line called Tiny Petals. Launching new products this fall a whipped Vanilla Blossom Body Butter, Vanilla Blossom Soap, Frankincense Shaving Soap for the man in your life, and a Belly Butter for pregnant moms can all be found at sultrysuds.ca. Other exclusive services offered are custom scented soaps and labels for wedding favours, and hand picked gift baskets for the holidays, because it's never too late to start shopping!