As much as we don’t like to admit it, as Canadians we tend to cash in on American franchises when it comes to pop culture –witness MTV Canada, Canadian Idol and Canada’s Next Top Model for instance. But when it comes to beauty, and most particularly, green beauty, I think we here in the Great White North have got the upper hand. Aside from the obvious Canadian-born big brands (hello, MAC!) there are a smattering of niche and chic homegrown brands that are making a mark both within our borders and beyond. Enter Consonant Body Organic Skincare. The brainchild of former marketing executive, Bill Baker –whose own sensitive skin was cause to create a paraben, sodium lauryl sulphate, phalate, artificial dye and colour-free range of soaps, body washes and lotions –Consonant pairs simple natural ingredients, like organic oils, herbs and artesian spring water with cheeky labeling and simple, unisex packaging. Dry skin sufferers must try the Goats Milk soap bar ($12), which literally melts into skin and leaves it supple not tight. Or for a more heavy-handed approach, the Spearmint & Sage with Exfoliating Grains ($12) employs a mix of hominy grits, dillweed, polenta and oatbran to thoroughly slough off dead skin cells revealing softer skin.