ThE ETHOS OF cotswold caress
Hello
I'm Melissa, founder, formulator and maker here at Cotswold Caress. You can find out more about me and my personal journey into aromatherapy here. My business began in 2006 and is constantly evolving to address customer need and the changing environment. ​
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The mission of Cotswold Caress is
to mindfully create, make and promote
aromatherapy and botanical skincare products
to bring balance and glow to your daily life
Restorative, simple, honest products and information is at the core
of Cotswold Caress ethos.
At Cotswold Caress you can be sure all products are uniquely formulated and handmade by me, Melissa Sutherland, based near Shipston On Stour in the North Cotswolds,
Products are formulated as close to botanical source as possible and in the simplest way to be of benefit, whether that be restoring balance to an unsettled mind or giving skin a restorative boost.
Honest ingredient information lets you know exactly what you are putting on your skin and why.
Products are made with botanical oils and ingredients that are mindfully selected and sourced.
Products draw on the natural therapeutic properties of pure essential oils, botanical extracts and plant oils that are all selected for specific function and used in appropriate concentration.
I source from just 3 suppliers, who all work directly with the farmers/growers/distillers, and are able to say exactly where and how each raw material is produced. They provide the documentation to assure quality and any compliance claims (eg Eco cert, RSPO, Soil Association) and importantly consider sustainable crop production, something that is especially a concern with plants grown for pure essential oils.
For rapeseed and walnut oil I am lucky enough to work directly with the farmer. These are grown and cold pressed on a farm a few miles down the road. Since there are few in the supply chain between myself and the raw material source, I am able to offer products with great ingredients at a reasonable price.
Packaging is simple and minimal
I try to cut down on excess packaging that will likely be thrown away. I do sometimes use natural cotton drawstring bags. These are reusable for many purposes but are also compostable so can safely go on your compost heap or in garden recycling!
Nearly all products are packaged in glass which can be reused (it’s easy to clean and hot wash). If you can return it I can reuse and give a small discount on your next order, otherwise it can be placed in the normal household recycling, as can any of the plastic packaging I use.
Information is honest and evidence-based
Products are honestly promoted with a pledge for no fear-led marketing, misleading information or medical claims. Everything is made and sold according to UK cosmetic regulations.
I have spent many years studying and researching raw materials and pure essential oils and am happy to share my learning.
Customer connection, trust and wellbeing are top priority here at Cotswold Caress.
