A Cirencester woman who started making her own skin care products after not being able to find any she liked has won a number of awards.
Joanna Walker first gave her creams and oils away as Christmas presents in 2012, stepping up production after being inundated with requests for refills.
She then took a stall at Cirencester’s charter market selling under the name ANI Skincare. Several seasonal pop-up shops followed alongside her online store, before a physical shop opened in Stable Yard off Blackjack Street last year.
And Joanna is now celebrating after winning four medals at the Free From Skin Care Awards.
The awards were founded to reward skincare manufacturers across Europe who create cosmetics without the allergens, preservatives, additives, and fragrances associated with skin sensitivities and ethical, environmental and health concerns.
READ MORE: Finalists announced for Cirencester Community Awards
This is a philosophy close to Joanna's heart. "It affirms everything we stand for," she said.
"ANI stands for As Nature Intended and I’m thrilled we have been acknowledged by the industry for living up to our brand promise."
From five nominations, Joanna won one gold and three silver medals.
The gold medal was awarded in the Toners, Waters and Spritzes category for Joanna's hydrating facial toner.
The ANI Skincare renewal body polish and facial cleanser both picked up silver medals and Joanna also took home a silver medal for the Best Free From Brand Award.
“I’m overjoyed with this result,” she said.
“It’s the first time we have been entered in an industry rewards and to come away with such a great result acknowledges all our natural skincare products and the work we have put in.”
The award announcements were made online on Tuesday, July 19 following a long judging process which included a rigorous month-long assessment by four cosmetic testers and round-table expert judging sessions.
ANI Skincare products are available from Burford Garden Company and No Packaging Included in Marlborough, as well as the ANI shop in Cirencester and Aniskincare.com
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