Beauty Buys: Must-Have Products from BC’s Cosmetics Boutiques

A common thread found in BC’s cosmetics boutiques is the preference for natural, clean, and sustainable ingredients. Maybe being surrounded by the beauty of the Pacific Northwest creates a strong inclination to respect nature and keep things natural, both in our surroundings and what we use on our bodies. We’ve picked five cosmetic must-haves from BC’s boutique shops that reflect the best of what the west coast has to offer.

Carina Organics Botanical Therapeutic – Tree Essence Shampoo & Body Wash

Carina Organics Botanical Therapeutic – Tree Essence Shampoo & Body Wash is an exceptional top to toe shower essential. It’s a sensory journey that will remind you of British Columbia’s lush forests with its scent of red cedar oils.

Crafted with a meticulous blend of certified organic plant, vegetable, flower, and tree extracts, this moisturizing shampoo and body wash stand out for its therapeutic properties. It’s not just about cleansing; it’s about nourishing and soothing skin and scalp concerns naturally.

What sets this product apart is the company’s commitment to maintaining an all natural product line focused on holistic remedies with the highest quality ingredients sourced from the Pacific Northwest and manufactured by hand in B.C. Cruelty-free, vegan, hypoallergenic and 100% biodegradable, it’s a great choice that aligns with the eco-conscious skin care enthusiast.

Harlow Skin Co.  Fiery Skin Gloss

Another multi-tasking wonder, Harlow Skin Co’s Fiery Skin Gloss is the perfect summer tint for that flash of orange on your cheeks, lips, and eyes. With beeswax as its key ingredient,this  tube of goodness is packed with anti-inflammatory properties while helping lock in moisture. Harlow’s ingredient list is always under 12, and its philosophy is to keep its products simple yet made with complex plants and parts. You can come by their atelier in Vancouver where they make their products and provide refills. 

Sḵwálwen Botanicals Kalkáy Wild Rose Replenishing Facial Mask

Get this customer favourite for its delicate formulation that’s perfect for sensitive skin. The Wild Rose Replenishing Facial Mask is made with rose and rosehip powder, french pink clay, and mango seed butter. With a subtle scent of rose and a rich, creamy formula, it’s perfect  for when you need a touch of luxury to your daily routine. Made for distressed skin, it helps even the skin tone, refine your skin texture, and balance sebum production while keeping your skin hydrated and glowy. Founded by an Indigenous ethnobotanist, the company is dedicated to upholding the legacy of Indigenous plants cultivated in the Unceded Territories of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh First Nation. Read more about Sḵwálwen Botanicals here.

Sunja Link Body Shoppe’s cosmetic bag

This washable and durable kraft paper bag is a wonderful travel-sized must have that can fit about six 100 ml bottles. Sunja Link Body Shoppe’s boutique carries its own inhouse brand as well as other brands that have conscious and clean skincare and makeup in mind. If you’re looking to support local skincare and cosmetic lines, be sure to check out their BC-brand collection.

Wild Coast Perfumery Tribune Bay eau de parfum

A fragrance that’s captured hearts and awards alike—this must-have pick placed 1st at the 2021 Clean Beauty Awards. The scent is perfect for welcoming sunnier days ahead with its tropical, summery notes of pineapple, coconut, vanilla and palmerosa inspired by Hornby Island’s white sand bay.

Wild Coast Perfumery’s crafting process is rooted in care and mindfulness- blending only pure, plant-based essential oils sourced globally. Their tinctures are sustainably harvested from Vancouver Island forests and their own island garden. Get a feel of the essence of British Columbia with a visit to their perfumery along Cowichan Bay.

This story was originally published in May 2024.