In recent years, the beauty industry has witnessed a surge in interest for natural, sustainable, and ethically sourced skincare products.
Canadian skincare brands have risen to the occasion, combining innovation, clean ingredients, and eco-conscious practices to create products that rival global giants.
Supporting these local brands not only ensures high-quality skincare but also contributes to the growth of Canadian entrepreneurs and reduces environmental impact.
Whether you’re a skincare enthusiast, an eco-conscious consumer, or simply someone who loves supporting local businesses, here’s a list of Canadian skincare brands you need to know.
Background: Founded by DECIEM in Toronto, The Ordinary has revolutionized the skincare industry with its science-backed, affordable formulations.
Key Products: Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, and the infamous AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution (aka the "vampire mask").
What Sets Them Apart: The Ordinary is known for transparency and affordability, offering high-performance products at a fraction of the price of traditional luxury skincare.
Background: Based in Alberta, this brand crafts handmade, toxin-free skincare with a focus on natural ingredients.
Key Products:
Natural Bar Soaps (varieties include Goat's Milk & Lavender, Fennel & Charcoal, Pumpkin).
Hand & Body Wash (Lemongrass, Vanilla Coconut).
Daily Oat Lotion
Transformative Cleansing Oil
What Sets Them Apart: All products rated as LOW HAZARD by EWG Skin Deep database. They are committed to removing toxins from products and the environment. The company researches and uses local, native plants in formulations.
Background: Inspired by wellness and superfoods, Graydon Skincare offers plant-based products made in Ontario.
Key Products: Fullmoon Serum, Berry Rich moisturizer, Supermoon Water Serum
and Face Foam cleanser.
What Sets Them Apart: They focus on minimalist, multi-functional products that are vegan, cruelty-free, and packed with nutrient-rich ingredients like chlorella, turmeric, and berry extracts.
Background: Based in Vancouver, Viva Organics specializes in anti-aging skincare using organic ingredients.
Key Products: Amaze Exfoliating Gel, Collagen Hyaluronic Acid Serum, and Bio Brightening C Serum.
What Sets Them Apart: Their products are formulated to combat signs of aging using natural yet potent ingredients, making them a favorite for mature skin.
Background: A Montreal-based brand that emphasizes vegan, cruelty-free, and eco-friendly skincare.
Key Products: Bamboo Konjac Sponge, Shampoo Bars, Nail Polishes, Face Masks and Lip Balms
What Sets Them Apart: BKIND uses sustainable packaging, such as biodegradable containers, and donates a portion of their profits to animal welfare organizations.
Background: This Ontario-based brand combines luxury and sustainability in its natural skincare line.
Key Products: Rosey Cheeks Facial Cream, Ancient Mud Facial Mask, and Sweet Orange Gel Cleanser.
What Sets Them Apart: Cocoon Apothecary is committed to using biodegradable, plant-based ingredients and eco-friendly glass packaging for a low-waste beauty routine.
What Sets Them Apart: Their products are free of synthetic chemicals, alcohol, and artificial fragrances, making them suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
Background: A K Dermal was created out of a need for non-toxic, clean formulations used in advanced skin treatments. This brand focuses on treatment-oriented skincare designed to heal and nourish.
Key Products: Their healing skincare products include cleansers, face oils, toners, and masks, which are made in small batches to ensure the potency of active ingredients.
What Sets Them Apart: A K Dermal’s formulations are extensively researched for efficacy and safety, using naturally derived preservatives and cruelty-free ingredients.
Background: Specializing in face oils for every skin type, bareLUXE is committed to sustainability with refillable packaging and eco-conscious materials.
Key Products: Botanical face oils designed to target specific skin concerns. This include Bare Essential Elevated Barrier Oil, Age Support Bakuchiol Serum, Northern Rescue Elevated Recovery Oil and Radiant Glow Brightening Oil.
What Sets Them Apart: They donate 1% of all sales to ocean-bound plastic cleanup and focus on reducing plastic waste in the skincare industry.
Background: This family-led company offers over 60 certified all-natural, vegan, and cruelty-free products for skincare, haircare, and body care.
Key Products: Organic lip balms, moisturizers, Mineral Sunscreens, toners and soaps.
What Sets Them Apart: Birch Babe prioritizes sustainably sourced ingredients, plastic-free packaging, and products safe for sensitive skin and children.
Why Choose Canadian Skincare Brands?
Support Local Entrepreneurs: By purchasing Canadian-made products, you contribute to the growth of local businesses and the economy.
Tailored to Canadian Climates: Many brands formulate their products to address the unique challenges posed by Canada’s harsh winters and dry climates.
Clean and Ethical: Canadian brands often prioritize natural, cruelty-free, and sustainably sourced ingredients, offering peace of mind to eco-conscious consumers.
Reduced Carbon Footprint: Buying local minimizes the environmental impact associated with long-distance shipping and global supply chains.
Tips for Choosing the Right Skincare Brand
Identify Your Skin Type: Understanding whether your skin is oily, dry, sensitive, or combination can help narrow down your options.
Focus on Concerns: Look for brands that specialize in addressing your needs, whether it’s hydration, anti-aging, or acne control.
Check Ingredients: Always read ingredient labels to avoid allergens or irritants. Prioritize brands that use clean, natural, and non-toxic ingredients.
Start Small: Many brands offer travel-size products or starter kits, allowing you to test their efficacy before committing to full-sized items.
Conclusion
Canadian skincare brands are a treasure trove of innovation, sustainability, and high-quality products.
From The Ordinary’s science-backed formulations to Rocky Mountain Soap Company’s toxin-free creations, these brands cater to a wide range of skin types and concerns.
By exploring and supporting local businesses, you not only invest in your skin’s health but also contribute to a cleaner, greener planet.
So why not give these homegrown heroes a try? Your skin—and the Earth—will thank you.
Have you tried any of these Canadian skincare brands? Share your favorites in the comments below and let us know how they transformed your skincare routine! 🌿
Lucky is the founder of True Canadian Finds, a trusted resource for newcomers to Canada. Having made the journey to Canada herself, she understands the unique challenges of settling into a new country and is passionate about helping others navigate their new home with ease. Through her platform, she hopes to connect thousands of newcomers with essential tips, services, and deals to make their transition smoother. Whether it's finding the best local shops, discovering key services, or accessing valuable newcomer resources, she ensures that True Canadian Finds empowers people to embrace life in Canada with confidence.
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