What’s going to be big in beauty this year? Those clever people at The Beauty Shortlist have been putting their thinking caps on – and they reckon natural beauty is going to be huge.

“Plant-based, fruit and flower essential oil skin and hair care will be huge,” they say. “In a modern, gentle science-meets-nature way. 

“Brands like Aveda, Weleda, Dr. Hauschka, Neal’s Yard, Kiehls, REN, Liz Earle, Oskia, Lubatti, Pai Skincare, Lavera will be our modern classics.

“How a formula feels, works, acts and smells will be more important than ever (during an economic downturn we look for feelgood, comfort factors). 

“Scented skincare will be big – consciously or subconsciously, we’re seeking reassurance, pampering, inspiration, feelgood factor, to be happy, feel loved, feel well.”

They also say that 2012 will be the year of “Read the label”. This is to “avoid the nastiest nasties” and “to get to know good ones with those long Latin or scientific-style names” – and also, to see what we’re paying for!

[Image: Jorg Weingrill]