One of our favorite parts of VeganMed is meeting inspirational people who are committed to an animal-free world. Our newest friend is Ann Mason, founder of No Frills Cosmetics, based in Cornwall, England. Ann was inspired to create No Frills Cosmetics during her fight with breast cancer. We are truly inspired by her, and we are so glad to introduce her to you all!
No Frills is now Certified Animal-Free!
VeganMed has certified all moisturizers, bath salts, and facial oils in the line. We are in love with these products and hope you love them too! You can find these products for sale at www.nofrillscosmetics.co.uk. All of the plastic containers are recyclable and reusable, and she also has optional aluminum tins if requested.
Want to know more about the woman behind the brand? We sat down with Ann to bring you the full story of No Frills!
Tell us more about the journey that led to launching No Frills Cosmetics.
This venture started when I was diagnosed with breast cancer. Whilst undergoing Chemotherapy I was advised not to use any products on my skin that contained perfumes as my skin would be very sensitive. Being naturally inquisitive I researched as much as I could and became aware that some ingredients used in products used on the skin can be absorbed, and I came to the conclusion that ‘natural’ products would be best for me. There are a lot of natural products on the market but they are often expensive. Having been involved in manufacturing for over 30 years I had a light bulb moment and thought, "I can make that myself."
Tell us more about your manufacturing background!
I am a registered pharmacy technician and have a diploma in Pharmaceutical Technology and Quality Assurance. My "day job" is as Deputy Production Manager in an NHS Manufacturing Unit producing pharmaceutical products. I have manufactured external products including creams, ointments, lotions and potions. I have transferred these skills to natural moisturiser, but of course it is all a learning experience with different ingredients and different regulations to work with.
What was the process of creating the products? Are they made locally?
My creative process has included reading and digesting the European Cosmetic Regulations (no mean feat!) which includes information about Good Manufacturing Practice, what ingredients can be used and in what percentage, labelling and safety assessments. I have produced a technical file with all the necessary information including worksheets and labels. My moisturiser has a safety assessment and a preservative challenge test and is registered on the European Cosmetics Portal.
This may not sound creative but is necessary for user safety. The best and most creative bit is making the product and the lovely aroma of essential oils. I manufacture my moisturiser myself, locally in Cornwall.
Are you planning to add any more products to your range?
My aspirations are to have a range of natural cosmetics. It may have to wait until I retire from my
People seem really keen on natural deodorant. I have made it for myself but haven’t quite got the formulation as I would like it. More practice needed and willing volunteers to trial it!
Tell me about "Bosom Pals" and their experience with your products.
"Bosom Pals" is a breast cancer support group based in Plymouth (England). They do amazing work...some ladies create fabric bags for drains after surgery! I was involved in a charity calendar in 2015 where we raised £16,000 for Macmillan. I was very lucky to have a forum where some of the ladies trialled my moisturiser for me. I have designed it for sensitive skin so they were an ideal group to participate.
Feedback was good regarding the cream itself. Non-greasy, absorbed well, no skin sensitivity issues. I have 3 variations with essential oils and one with no essential oils which I would recommend for anyone undergoing Chemotherapy.
£1 from the sale of each 50g pot is donated to Bosom Pals and other breast cancer charities.
When you're not working on No Frills, how do you make the most of living in Cornwall?
The beautiful Cornish Landscape inspires me. I have access to the moors, forests, beaches. Free and natural! I love the outdoor lifestyle. I have 2 dogs whom I love taking for walks. The outdoors is a great way to relax after a busy day at work. My husband is a wheelchair user and has an ‘off roader’ so we are always looking for somewhere new to go that is accessible. Where there is a will, there is a way!
We are also motorcyclists and if we can put up with the mournful stares from our dogs we will escape and go off for a ride.
I practice reiki and meditation which I think has added value if carried out outdoors listening to the sounds of nature.
Welcome to the Certified Animal-Free family, No Frills!
Disclaimer: The product and/or medical information provided on VeganMed is of a general nature and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or product.
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