IN CONVERSATION WITH: Isobel Perl
Meet Isobel Perl, founder of PERL Cosmetics - an independent British skincare brand empowering women to embrace their natural beauty.
After losing her job during the pandemic, Isobel turned a challenging moment into an opportunity, pursuing her passion for skincare and growing PERL into the thriving brand it is today.
A true inspiration, Isobel is proof that with passion and perseverance, anything is possible—at any age. She shares her insights on confidence, following your dreams, and the power of self-care rituals in nurturing wellbeing.
I've been using and LOVING their Balancing Cleansing Balm as part of my evening routine - it's so gentle and leaves my skin feeling fresh and nourished!
What inspired you to start PERL Cosmetics, and what were some of the biggest challenges you faced building the brand?
I started PERL after I lost my job during the pandemic and was forced to re-evaluate what I wanted from life. Driven by a passion for science and a love for skincare, I spotted a gap in the market for a British-made alternative to the cult-favourite Australian Pink Clay Mask.
I wanted to create formulas that were gentle but powerful, using minimal, clean ingredients and waterless formulations. One of the biggest challenges was doing everything myself in the early days - from formulation to fulfilment - while learning how to run a business from scratch. It’s been a huge learning curve, but also the most rewarding journey.
How do your personal experiences influence the brand’s mission?
PERL is rooted in my journey with skincare and self-confidence. I know firsthand how much skin concerns can affect your mindset and mental health, so I built the brand to empower others to feel good in their skin. Everything we create is designed with empathy, simplicity, and self-love in mind.
How do you think skincare routines can impact mental health and self-confidence?
Skin is more than surface-level, and research has proven this - with 98% of people living with skin concerns noting their mental health has suffered as a result. Skincare is often a moment of calm and ritual in our busy lives.
That time you take for yourself, even if it's just five minutes, can boost your mood and reconnect you with your body. When your skin feels healthy, your confidence naturally follows.
What’s your advice for people struggling with their skin and feeling self-conscious about it?
Be kind to yourself. Skin fluctuates, and ‘perfect’ skin does not exist. Focus on how your skin feels, not just how it looks. And remember - your worth isn’t defined by breakouts or texture. You're allowed to show up fully, no matter what your skin is doing that day.
What sets PERL’s formulations apart from other skincare brands?
Our formulas contain minimal ingredients and are waterless, preservative-free, and designed to be as gentle as possible while still delivering real results. Our products are multi-functional, non-irritating (even around the eyes), and made with intention - every ingredient serves a purpose. There are no filler ingredients, just what your skin actually needs.
Where do you see PERL Cosmetics in the next five years?
I see PERL stocked on shelves globally, expanding beyond e-commerce into retail. We’ll continue innovating in the waterless skincare space while growing our community, championing real skin, and staying rooted in our values of authenticity, quality, and connection.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
Done is better than perfect. Perfectionism can be paralysing, especially when you're building something from the ground up. Progress and consistency will always beat overthinking.
What is your proudest achievement?
Honestly, building PERL from a kitchen table idea into a six-figure brand featured by the BBC, with a community of hundreds of thousands, is my proudest achievement. Doing it all self-funded and staying true to my values makes it even more meaningful. It’s opened up opportunities I didn’t even know existed and makes me excited for what the future holds.
Who has been your greatest inspiration?
I’m constantly inspired by other female founders - those who’ve built something from nothing, taken risks, and stayed authentic along the way. Seeing other women carve their own path motivates me to keep pushing forward, whilst always ensuring I’m making space at the table for other trailblazing women.
What’s the hardest challenge you’ve had to overcome?
I’m currently rebranding the business due to a trademark issue, which is emotionally and logistically tough. It’s forcing me to let go of something I’d built, but it’s also an opportunity to evolve and elevate the brand.
And finally, what's your top beauty ‘must-have’ in your make-up bag?
I love bronzing drops for that dewy glow, paired with the a highlighter - I’m forever being complimented on my glowing skin (of course, I have PERL to thank for that!).
You can learn more about PERL and their brilliant products on their website, or follow along on social media @perlcosmetics for beauty tips and tricks.
