5 Niche Skincare Brands To Know

INDIE LEE

Who’s Behind It: CEO & Founder, Indie Lee.

The Concept: Indie Lee was inspired to create her brand after recovering from an almost-fatal brain tumour. With the possible cause linked to an exposure to environmental toxins, she discovered 60% of what we put on our skin is absorbed directly into our bloodstream. Suffice to say, it didn’t take long for Indie to create an ‘eco-chic’ skin and body care line completely devoid of all harmful, synthetic chemicals. Using plant-based ingredients (think chamomile and aloe vera) from around the world, the range delivers a high concentration of nutrients in fast-acting formulas that work for all ages and skin types.

The Best-Sellers: Three of the brand’s top sellers earn consistent five-star reviews, including the Squalane Facial Oil, Brightening Cleanser and finally, the CoQ-10 Toner. Facial oil is Indie's personal favourite for adding bounce and transforming all complexions – even those suffering from cystic acne.

FARMACY

Who’s Behind It: Founder, Mark Veeder.

The Concept: Pioneering the ‘farm-to-face’ philosophy, New York farmer Mark Veeder created this natural skincare line as a result of his love of gardening. After discovering the benefits of rare plant extracts via horticultural labs, he realised he could create a brand rich in natural, skin-loving botanicals - but also backed by impressive science. By looking to local farms, Mark saw many were using innovative and unique ingredients – most of which are subsequently activated in a lab to maximise their benefits.  The packaging is also made with FSC certified paper, and all the jars are completely recyclable, too. 

The Best-Sellers: Not only is it aesthetically pleasing, Farmacy’s Honey Drop Lightweight Moisturiser is a best-seller, alongside the Green Clean Cleansing Balm. Both contain the brand’s ‘hero’ ingredient – Echinacea GreenEnvy Complex – an antioxidant-rich powerhouse that firms, protects and prevents signs of early ageing.

AMLY

Who’s Behind It: Co-founders, Kerry Moore and Lisa Smallpeice.

The Concept: British botanical brand Amly was co-created by Kerry and Lisa to bring effective holistic skincare to a broader audience. Never compromising on performance, all the key ingredients are sourced directly from a farm in Sussex, then handmade in a small lab in Somerset. What started as a small discovery soon led to an award-winning line of products, including everything from a Digital Detox Face Mist to a nourishing Cleansing Balm and Mask. Slick branding, high-performance products, all-natural ingredients and a limited carbon footprint – what’s not to love?  

The Best-Sellers: The cult Digital Detox spray is a fan-favourite, with anti-colloidal silver-rich spring water and energy-cleansing frankincense working together to turn a screen break into real-time relaxation. We also love the Sleep Tight Face Balm, which uses anti-ageing propolis extract to boost the turnover of sluggish skin cells – plus, the herbal scent is so addictive.

BJORK & BERRIES

Who’s Behind It: CEO and founder Isabelle Lewenhaupt.

The Concept: Swedish skincare brands are enjoying new-found popularity, but Bjork & Berries is a real stand out. Developed by CEO, Isabelle Lewenhaupt, sustainability is at the heart of the brand’s ethos, as are minimal ingredients and being kinder to your skin. Raw, hand-picked ingredients (think birch leaves and bark) are transformed into specialist blends, which form the basis of clean, nourishing and high-quality formulas. Extra points go to the beautiful, pared back packaging – which, by the way, is also 100% recyclable.

The Best-Sellers: The body lotions always find their way to the top of our list, and remain a brand best-seller. It’s worth spending some time checking out their potent and unique range of perfumes as well, most of which are also relatively affordable.

ODACITÉ

Who’s Behind It: Health & wellness coach, Valérie Gradury.

The Concept: After recovering from breast cancer, Valérie Gradury reinvented her lifestyle by eliminating all toxins from both her diet and skincare regime, while her training as a health and wellness coach taught her the benefits of plant extracts and their skin-healing properties. Soon, the idea for Odacité was born and, with a little help from her client’s word of mouth, quickly won a legion of A-List fans. Expect everything from plumping eye serums, to invigorating face mists and skin-quenching moisturisers, all rich in essential nutrients to aid common skin concerns. Brilliant for all complexions, but especially those on the sensitive side. 

The Best-Sellers: The award-winning Aventurine Kiss Lip Serum and the brand’s signature treatment mists are always best-sellers. Formulated with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, chamomile and aloe, they help retain moisture, as well as boost glow.