London may be best known for its picturesque sights, edgy fashion, unique club culture, and being an incredibly multicultural city — but it also the birthplace to some of the most exciting British beauty brands on the global beauty market. In recent years, the brands and products made waves on both sides of the Atlantic, winning people over for their innovative and efficacious formulas, eye-catching packaging, and overall fresh approach to beauty. In fact, iconic celebrity makeup artist Charlotte Tilbury’s namesake beauty line was one of the most search for beauty brands on Google this year. And on social media, you don’t have to look far to find posts of people about the likes of Pixi, Jo Malone, Elemis, and a host of other household and indie British cosmetics, hair care, and skin care companies.
For the intel on the best of the best in the London beauty scene, four British beauty and lifestyle bloggers shared with The Zoe Report what products they swear by; the tried-and-true items they always have stocked and reach for in their vanities. With picks from major brands to unique indie lines — here are all the beauty gems Londoners currently can’t get enough of.
Danielle Vanier
Danielle is a blogger and fashion consultant who's worked with a wide range of beauty brands from Birchbox, Soap & Glory, and NARS as an influencer. You can find her work over on her blog, Danielle Vanier.
“A classic British brand and a favorite of mine, with a focus on incredible fragrances and body care. They've also got the royal seal of approval!” For the uninitiated, try out their orange and bergamot body wash. Made with the perfect mix of sweet and citrusy notes, it will make a great addition in your bathroom.
Hayley Hall
Hayley is an award-winning fashion, beauty, and lifestyle blogger, and a brand consultant with an expertise in helping companies like Paul Mitchell and Olay hone their digital strategy. You can find her work over on her blog, Hayley Hall.
Seahorse Plankton 60 Second Manicure
“I'm always suffering with dry hands and brittle nails; this scrub is beautiful and totally natural and sustainable. Within a few seconds, my hands are restored. It somehow leaves them soft, supple, and looking much healthier.”
Kristabel Plummer
Kristabel is a fashion, travel, and lifestyle blogger, Youtuber, and founder of You Can Sit With Us, a London-based blogger support group. You find her work over on her blog, I Want You To Know.
Luxury Eyeshadow Palette in Dolce Vita
“This brand had me at rose gold! I've been using the Dolce Vita eye palette for years and it's perfect for everyday or special occasions. Charlotte Tilbury’s online tutorials are also useful if you need a bit of extra help [with your makeup].”
“I had my first ever-facial at Antonia Burrell's Notting Hill salon couple of years ago, and it really helped me understand why skin hydration is so important. It can be tricky to get any constructive advice when it comes to skincare, especially when you always hear things like ‘Black don’t crack!’ She also has a facial in a box that contains everything you need for an at-home facial, and it’s a nice treat every couple of months.”
Swish Sulphate-free Moisturizing Shampoo
“After reading about all the harmful chemicals that can be present in certain Afro hair products, I’ve pretty much switched over to this organic brand. Their story is really inspiring as one of their founders recently pitched to Ashton Kutcher at the Wework Creator Awards while 9 months pregnant — and won. It’s great if you’re newly natural and confused by terminology such as ‘sealing’ or whether to just add water to your hair. Each product works well together and provides everything that 4c hair needs.”
Ruth Crilly
Ruth is a beauty and lifestyle blogger, international fashion model, and founder of Colab Dry Shampoo. While she lives in the English countryside with her family, she's always in London for work. You can find her work on her blog, A Model Recommends.
Radiate Second Skin Finish Natural Radiance Beauty Balm SPF 15
“Code8 makeup has just launched in the UK and offers something new in that it’s very edited down. It’s just the essentials that busy, grown-up women need, that’s long-lasting and universally flattering.” Available in nine shades, this featherweight skin-like beauty balm nourishes and protects your skin from environmental aggressors like UVA and UVB sun rays.
“Ameliorate makes body care that’s loaded with lactic acid, so it’s great for smoothing lumps and bumps and helping with KP. It’s simple, effective, and not extortionately priced!” One of their best-sellers, the Transforming Body Cream, smooths skin as it moisturizes, with a powerful blend of exfoliating acids, omega oils, shea butter, cocoa butter, and squalane.
