Not too long ago, organic beauty was perceived as overpriced, ineffective and less than indulgent. Today, we're far more conscious of how products – particularly body care and cosmetics – should contain ingredients that are kinder to both our health and the environment.
Here are five organic spots in Birmingham where you can get pampered, or pick up beauty treats that are earth, body, and bank balance friendly:
PHB Ethical Beauty
PHB Ethical Beauty
Although you can buy a selection of PHB Ethical Beauty products from Holland & Barratt, the original store is right here from a tiny unit in the Pavilions Shopping Centre. Everything from paraben (chemical preservative) free makeup to organic body creams is available, and with so much to try out, you'll be pleased to know that the range is affordable, and packages well as a gift.
PHB Ethical Beauty, Level 2 The Pavilions Shopping Centre, 38 High Street, Birmingham, B4 7SL
Organique
This modest shop (the only one from this brand in the UK) is situated in the arcade behind House of Fraser, and is packed with a huge range of organic products. Friendly, unpatronising advice is on hand if you need it, too. The emphasis here is on the effectiveness of the products, and the array of awards it has won gives assurance to all beauty lovers.
Organique, Unit 9 North Western Arcade, Temple Row, Birmingham, B2 5LH
Crystal Beauty Lounge
Crystal Beauty Lounge
This is one of a very small number of beauty salons specialising in organic products, with a whole menu of treatments using Neal's Yard Remedies. Though the space is more functional than tranquil, you can get an indulgent treatment safe in the knowledge that the products used are earth friendly, proven to work, and you don't even have to venture outside of Birmingham to enjoy them.
Crystal Beauty Lounge, 33 Lionel St, Birmingham, B3 1AP
Puro Hair
Puro Hair
Boasting a vegan friendly product range, including colourants, this organic hairdresser salon is hidden away on Cannon Street. This secretive spot is well worth seeking out if you fancy an organic hair treatment free from parabens, silicones and sulphates.
Puro Hair, 13a Cannon Street, Birmingham, B2 5EN
Lindsey Hughes Curl Whisperer
If you struggle with your curls or waves, or find it difficult to find a hairdresser who understands how to cut and colour curly locks without damaging them, here's the answer for you. Lindsey has expert training in curly hair and first hand experience of the curly struggle. Of course the products used are organic, and as natural as possible, making this salon perfect for any hair type.
Lindsey Hughes Curl Whisperer, Treat Me Suite, 70 Vyse Street, Birmingham, B18 6EX
Planning to look your best for a special someone? Here are eight great places for a first date.