Natural beauty products are becoming more and more popular among consumers in the UK, an observer has noted.

According to Jade Wright of the Southport Visiter, sales of natural health and beauty products went up by almost three-quarters last year.

This, she stated, shows that items which only contain natural ingredients rather than harmful chemicals have been positively endorsed by British shoppers.

Ms Wright highlighted Hollywood actress Gwyneth Paltrow as one person who has embraced natural beauty products, as she recently revealed she uses olive oil and honey to enhance her skin.

"She may be the face of Estee Lauder with a bathroom cabinet brimming with free products, but it's the kitchen cupboard [she] raids for a natural beauty fix," Ms Wright commented.

The columnist added that celebrities are now increasingly keen to be seen using natural beauty products instead of cosmetics from the biggest brands.

Paltrow, who has appeared in films such as Shakespeare In Love and Sliding Doors, revealed on her website last month that she also uses aloe vera juice and cotton pads soaked in cold milk to rejuvenate her skin.