By Trisha Chawla
You’ve tried global icons and viral K-beauty heroes with miraculous results. But there’s a new crop of brands closer to home that are ready to rule the roost. Formulated especially for Indian skin tones and our hot, humid weather, these homegrown labels can provide highly efficacious results simply by being closer to the root of your beauty woes. We unearth the coolest beauty brands that are making waves on the internet and are probably your beauty-obsessed friends’ best-kept secrets.
FOR THE MAKEUP LOVER
Everyone will want a peek into your kit with these labels that boast of efficient multi-tasking heroes. Try Gush Beauty’s multipurpose stack with a highlighter, blush, and bronzer trio to ace your makeup on the go. Asa Beauty’s clean Lip and Cheek refillable tint serves serious pigment for your lips and cheeks and can even be used as an eyeshadow to get a monochromatic look. Don’t miss out on Type Beauty’s targeted concealers that are packed with ingredients like salicylic acid and green tea extracts to calm acne while providing coverage. You can choose a different one for a tired undereye or hyperpigmentation too!
FOR THE SKINTELLECTUAL
Upgrade your skincare kit with these conscious labels with no nasties. Juicy Chemistry’s blood orange and rosehip lip balm is a cult favourite to moisturise and reduce pigmentation on your lips. The Moms Co’s eye cream is the best-kept secret of pro makeup artists. Rich in vitamins and caffeine, this roll-on version helps depuff and hydrate tired undereyes.
FOR THE HAIR CARE PRO
When it comes to hair care, these new entrants are quickly becoming shelf staples. Arata’s plant-powered formulas are lightweight and perfect to tackle frizz in the humid Indian weather. The crown jewel? It’s a cold-pressed hair blend formulated with hemp seed oil and avocado oil to soothe the scalp and restore moisture in your strands.
Love a traditional champi? Take it to the next level with Nat Habit’s handmade, ayurvedic, and absolutely fresh blends created using ingredients like nuts, grains, milk, and herbs. So fresh, you think they’d just made it out of your kitchen.
FOR THE BODY CARE AFFICIONADO
Shower time is always where you hit relax and are your truest self (yes, bathroom singers!). And these top-notch brands will win over your hearts with ease. Try Bare Necessities body scrubs with reusable jars and soaps that thrive on the brand’s zero-waste philosophy. Fancy a hint of luxury? Kimirica’s scented shower gels and soaps won’t just turn your shower into a spa—they also make beautiful gifts for your loved ones.