Bismuth oxychloride is noted for causing skin-irritation and itchiness, and while it might make us pretty on the outside, a more natural shine is definitely advisable -- especially for those with sensitive skin.

Our sceptical radar usually fires up when we hear the word 'natural' in a health and beauty context, but Inika's claims to be a 'natural brand' seem sincere. The vibrant, colourful cosmetics are made from minerals and oils that can be found naturally in Aussie soil and plants, with an end result completely free from parabens, chemicals, talc, GM ingredients and -- importantly -- bismuth oxychloride.

Inika also puts to bed the myth that it's only possible to get chemical-free make-up in earthy tones. On offer is a funky colour range achieved by "refracting light through iron oxides". If that leaves you non the wiser, Sarah Dowden from Inika explains cagily: "Imagine light shining through a prism and being split into the various colours that make up the spectrum [the rainbow we see when light shines on a crystal]. These are captured in a confidential process and mixed to obtain our colours."

Coming all the way from Australia, our carbon footprint conscience is happy that we're only talking about little things like lipsticks, eye-shadows and foundations, while Inika gets extra brownie points for offsetting  its precious exports' emissions. All boxes, labels and brochures are made from recycled or sustainable paper, while Inika's products (including brushes) are 100 per cent certified vegan and cruelty-free.

To check out and order from the Inika range go to www.inikacosmetics.co.uk.