Master Soapmaking Since 2023
Multi-Award Winning Herbal Skincare Apothecary

The Dark Island Soap Co.: A Modern Heritage of Skincare 

The Dark Island Soap Co. is an artisanal apothecary dedicated to the intersection of ancient botanical wisdom and modern self-care. Rooted in the belief that skincare should be a grounding, intentional experience, we specialise in handcrafted, small-batch formulations that honour the raw power of nature.

 
Fáilte 

The Man Behind the Business

The Dark Island Soap Co. was created in honour of my beloved late father, Donald MacLellan.
Dad hailed from Lochboisdale, South Uist, in the beautiful Outer Hebrides of Scotland, with “The Dark Island” being a place we would spend many a happy vacation when dad was visiting his home.
Unfortunately, he passed away on the 31st of August, 2022, from Vascular Dementia.

A business owner himself, he served his apprenticeship with Croall & Croall of Stockbridge, Edinburgh and became a Volkswagen Specialist, going on to own and run his successful motoring business in the sought-after area of Morningside, Edinburgh for over 50 years.

It is a privilege to dedicate this business to my father, and keep his memory alive.

Tapadh leat,
Chiara ​
Follow us on Instagram, Threads, Facebook and TikTok for all the latest updates! @thedarkislandsoapco 

 Named as one of Scotland's "finest health and beauty brands." - June, '24 

Scottish Field Magazine
         

 Five of the best Christmas gifts made in Scotland. - Nov, '23 

The Times Scotland Newspaper
         

 Their exquisite array of products epitomise luxury and elegance. Each creation is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, showcasing not only stunning aesthetics but also spectacular scents that altogether transform a simple bathroom into a lavish sanctuary. The brand's prioritisation of utilising gentle, high-quality ingredients sets them apart in the industry, complemented by their relentless pursuit of excellence. 

Louise Jane CEO, The Vegan Choice Awards
         

 If The Dark Island Soap Co. hasn't crossed your path yet, you're in for a real treat! This brand is celebrated as one of the top vegan beauty companies, and it's easy to understand why. They offer a stunning variety of handcrafted products that are not only gorgeous but work wonders. It's clear they've mastered their art, producing items that are a feast for the senses, converting your skincare routine into a luxurious affair. That being so, they are without doubt a brand that has won my heart for the long haul! 

Louise Jane CEO, Vegan Beauty Awards
         

 The best beauty & skincare buys your skin will love this winter. - Nov, '24 

Glamour Magazine
         

 The Dark Island Soap Co. wins the Customer Satisfaction Award. Combining handcrafted, organic soaps with a robust sustainability ethos, their commitment to planting trees and reusing materials resonates with eco-conscious customers. Their ground-breaking efforts not only meet the growing consumer demand for eco-friendly products but also showcase how innovation and responsibility can thrive together. By embracing sustainable practices and pushing the boundaries of possibility. - Dec, '24 

UK Business Awards
         

 The Dark Island Soap Co. embodies everything we value in a sustainability award winner—authenticity, transparency, accountability and commitment to natural and plastic-free practices. Their soaps have a rustic charm that feels deeply connected to the earth. Plus they not only smell incredible and work beautifully, but they also represent a meaningful step toward a more sustainable future. This is a business that proves you don’t have to compromise quality or luxury to care for the planet. - Dec, '24 

Anna Chatburn Sustainability Award Founder
         

 16 products our beauty editors are shopping this January 

Glamour Magazine
         

 The Dark Island Soap Co. recognised among best companies to watch in 2025 - Jan, ‘25 

CEO Vision
         

 As the founder of the Sustainability Award, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing countless businesses strive for eco-conscious practices. The Dark Island Soap Co. truly stands out. Their dedication to sustainability is not just a marketing ploy; it’s woven into the very fabric of their operations. Achieving the Diamond Level award signifies an exceptional commitment to environmental responsibility, and the Dark Island Soap Co. embodies that wholeheartedly. Beyond their remarkable sustainability efforts, their soaps are simply divine. The natural ingredients create a truly luxurious experience. The scents are beautiful, and the gentle formulas leave skin feeling nourished and refreshed. It’s rare to find a product that so perfectly balances ethical practice with exceptional quality. Dark Island Soap Co. proves that you can have a product that is both kind to the planet and a delight to use. Plus, their Founder Chiara is always so delightful to communicate with, you can really tell the love and dedication behind the brand. I wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone seeking a sustainable and indulgent bathing experience. - Feb, ‘25 

Anna Chatburn Sustainability Award Founder
         

Before: Using Blue Moon, with Blue Tansy Oil Facial Night Concentrate and Chamomile, Soothing Facial Night Cream

After: Using Blue Moon, with Blue Tansy Oil Facial Night Concentrate and Chamomile, Soothing Facial Night Cream

This beautiful anhydrous facial cleanser contains the organic oils of castor, sweet almond oil and vitamin E, with sweet orange essential oil and provides deep, gentle cleansing, intense hydration, and acne-fighting benefits. Castor oil helps to purge impurities, sweet almond oil helps to moisturise and vitamin E helps to repair the skin barrier. Scented with sweet orange essential oil which helps to brighten and reduce inflammation. Comes with an organic muslin cloth. This facial cleanser's amazing skin benefits!: - Castor oil is a nutrient-rich, plant-based oil that offers intense moisturisation, reduces acne, and fights inflammation, making it excellent for dry and ageing skin. Its high ricinoleic acid content promotes collagen production, reduces puffiness, and supports skin healing. It is best applied at night to lock in moisture. - Sweet almond oil is a nutrient-rich, lightweight oil packed with Vitamin E, Vitamin A, and fatty acids that deeply moisturise, soothe inflammation, and improve complexion. Ideal for sensitive and dry skin, it acts as a barrier to prevent moisture loss, reduces the appearance of scars, stretch marks, and dark circles, and promotes a youthful, radiant glow. Key Benefits of Sweet Almond Oil for Skin: Deep Moisturisation: It serves as an effective emollient, locking in moisture to soften dry, flaky skin. Rich in Nutrients: Contains high levels of Vitamin E, Vitamin A (retinoids), fatty acids, and zinc, which nourish the skin and stimulate new cell production. Soothes Sensitive Skin: It has anti-inflammatory properties that calm redness, sunburn, and skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis. Anti-Ageing Properties: The antioxidants, specifically Vitamin E, help fight free radicals, protect against UV-induced damage, and reduce the appearance of fine lines. Improves Complexion: Regular use helps even out skin tone and improves overall skin health. Reduces Marks: It is used to minimise the appearance of scars and stretch marks. Non-Comedogenic (low): With a low comedogenic rating, it is generally safe for all skin types, including acne-prone, though a patch test is recommended. Vitamin E benefits skin by acting as a powerful antioxidant, fighting free radicals, intensely moisturising by strengthening the skin barrier to lock in hydration, soothing inflammation, protecting against UV damage, promoting wound healing, improving elasticity, and reducing signs of aging like fine lines and dark spots, making skin softer and more supple. Key Benefits: Antioxidant Power: Neutralises harmful free radicals from sun and pollution, preventing damage that leads to dullness and wrinkles. Deep Moisturisation: Strengthens the skin's lipid barrier, reducing water loss and keeping skin hydrated, soft, and smooth. Anti-Ageing: Protects collagen and elastin, maintains skin's firmness, reduces fine lines, and helps prevent age spots. Sun Damage Protection: Enhances sunscreen effectiveness and helps reduce redness and damage from UV exposure. Healing & Soothing: Calms irritated skin, reduces inflammation, and aids in scar healing. Improves Texture: Contributes to a more supple, elastic, and youthful complexion. Aromatherapy essential oils with skin benefits!: - Sweet orange essential oil benefits the skin by cleansing, reducing acne, and brightening the complexion due to its antibacterial, astringent, and antioxidant properties. When properly diluted with a carrier oil, it can improve the appearance of dull or oily skin, help fade dark spots, and promote a more youthful look by boosting collagen production. However, it is phototoxic, so you should avoid direct sun exposure after application. Key skin benefits: Antioxidant and brightening: The oil contains Vitamin C, which helps fight free radicals that cause premature aging. It can also help even out skin tone and reduce the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Antibacterial and cleansing: It has antibacterial properties that help fight acne-causing bacteria, keeping pores clear. Its cleansing properties can remove dirt and grime. Astringent and firming: Sweet orange oil acts as a natural astringent, which can help tighten the skin and refine pores. It may also promote cell growth and collagen synthesis, contributing to firmer skin. Like all of our products, this cleanser will compliment whichever masks, oils and creams works for you, but it does work in perfect synergy with our Celestial, Anhydrous Facial Clay Mask, our Solaris, Facial Day Concentrate and our Calendula, Luminous Facial Day Cream. Directions for Use: Application: with dry hands and a dry face (do not pre-wet your skin, as the oil needs direct contact with sebum and makeup to work), apply and massage, dispensing a quarter-sized amount of the oil into your palms. Gently massage the oil onto your face and neck for 1–2 minutes using upward, circular motions. Steam: Run a clean washcloth under very warm (not scalding) water and wring it out. Place the warm, damp cloth over your face for 30–60 seconds to open pores and allow the oil to loosen grime. Remove: Use the same warm cloth to gently wipe away the oil, makeup, and dirt. Repeat this process (rinse cloth, wipe) until the skin feels clean but nourished. Finish: Pat skin dry. No toner or heavy moisturiser is usually needed, as the almond oil leaves a light, protective barrier. 97% Certified Organic Ingredients: *Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, *Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, *Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Peel (Sweet Orange) Oil Expressed *Certified Organic Allergen Warning: Contains Citral, Limonene and Linalool (naturally present in essential oils). Photosensitivity Warning: Avoid direct sun exposure whilst using this facial cleanser, due to the essential oils which can cause photosensitivity on the skin. May contain nuts. Discontinue use if irritation occurs. For external use only. Net weight (approx), 150ml Batch number and use by date provided on labelling. No palm oil, SLS, animal fats, fragrance oils, or synthetic mica powders are used in our products, and our ingredients are at least 90% certified organic, plant-based, sustainable, cruelty-free and vegan friendly. Disclaimer: Medical conditions:- If you have any health concerns, allergies, or existing medical conditions, you should consult a medical professional before using a new skincare product. Testing:- Before using a new skincare product, you should test it on a small area of skin to check for allergic reactions or sensitivity. You can apply a small amount to the inside of your wrist and observe for up to 9 hours. If you experience irritation, stop using the product and seek medical advice if necessary. Individual results:- Results may vary depending on your skin type, age, sensitivity, skincare history, and how you apply/use the product. Natural ingredients:- Even products with natural or organic ingredients can cause skin reactions in some people, especially if they contain essential oils. Please find our list of allergens associated with each soap's essential oils in the listing section under "allergen warning." Patch tests:- Some products, even soaps, recommend performing a patch test before using them all over your body. Liability:- The Dark Island Soap Co. LTD may not be responsible for any adverse consequences that result from using our products.

New Label
Stockists
Herringbone Gift Shop:
56, High St, Peebles EH45 8SW

Delights Gift Shop:
18, North Beach, Stornoway HS1 2XH

Ticketty Boo Gift Shop:
2, High St, Melrose TD6 9PB

Art & Vintage Cafe & Gift Shop:
3, Lyne St, Edinburgh EH7 5DN

Crossroads Pet & Garden Centre:
Millhouse, Tighnabruaich PA21 2BW

Craft on the Croft Gift Shop:
Polochaple, Culkein, Drumbeg, Lairg IV27 4NL

Saltwater Sunshine Gift Shop:
Main St, Gullane EH31 2AR

The Pier Cafe:
64 A848, Tobermory, Isle of Mull PA75 6NU

Vintage & Brown Gift Shop:
62, High St, Marshfield, Chippenham SN14 8LP

The Newport Bakery:
7, Cupar Road, Newport-on-Tay DD6 8AF

Wyrd & Whimsy Gift Shop:
2, Seafield St, Cullen, Buckie AB56 4SH

Stag & Heather Online Gift Shop:
www.stagandheather.co.uk

The Woodlands Cafe:
Abbey, St Bathans, Kennel House, Duns, TD11 3TX

Làmhan:
2a, Cross Street, Callander, FK17 8EA

The Boho Coffee Bothy:
Birchwood Business Park, Doune, FK16 6ER 
Member of The Addy

Chiara sent us her Chamomile Cold Process Soap. “The packaging was a real treat for the eyes, personalised with a thank you card and dried flowers, encased in beautiful tissue paper. Chiara added an extra special touch with the addition of night time sleep teas, to compliment the soothing scent of the soap. The chamomile and patchouli infusion is wonderfully relaxing and the perfect way to wind down by lathering yourself up in an evening bath or shower.The scent is beautifully delicate, yet potent enough that it leaves a hint of the aroma on your skin after showering.The soap truly felt like a spa treatment for the skin, treating it to a product made with natural ingredients, lovingly made by The Dark Island Soap Co.We would 100% recommend this soap and products made by Chiara. She is passionate about making organic skincare for all.”

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Member of the Guild of Craft Soap & Toiletry Makers

A proud member of the Guild of Craft Soap & Toiletry Makers, a peer support network for all compliant artisanal crafters in the soap and toiletry industry. When you see this sign for a business that makes soap and toiletries, you know they have been checked to comply with all UK and EU legislations regarding insurance, product safety checks (including CPSR reports), and being a valid, registered business.

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Member of The Professional Crafters Guild

Since January 2024, The Dark Island Soap Co. have been a member of The Professional Crafters Guild.

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Our Assurance to You

Our Assurance to You

The Dark Island Soap Co. are a registered UK business, complying to all UK and EU legislations, holding full CPSR (toxicology) reports for all of our products, and we are fully insured. Complying with the GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) guidelines, and holding full PIF (Product Information File) reports. All of our products are logged on to the Government's CPNP (Cosmetic Product Notification Portal) portal for Trading Standards and market surveillance, which is a legal requirement before selling skincare products on the UK market.

Accredited Ethical Business
The Dark Island Soap Co. are proud to have recieved a score of 100% with the prestigious The Good Shopping Guide, and have been awarded the title of "Ethical Innovator."
Established 25 years ago, The Good Shopping Guide is very well established as a leading independent authority on the ethical comparisons of companies and brands.
Gold Plastic Free Business Award Winners!
We are extremely proud to announce that we have won Gold status as a Plastic Free Champion business by Surfers Against Sewage.

What does this mean? By working with Surfers Against Sewage, we have now completely eliminated the use of plastic in our business.
Since July 2023, through every order placed through our website, we have planted over 2,000 trees globally through Tree Nation.

We are proud to run a registered Net Zero website, which sees all of the traffic which passes through it off-set harmful CO2 emissions by planting more trees!
“Blessed is he who plants trees under whose shade he will never sit.” - Indian Proverb

Chiara MacLellan

Owner & Sole Creator of The Dark Island Soap Co. Holistic Herbalist and Reiki Master

About the creator and owner of The Dark Island Soap Co. Chiara, an Edinburgh native who now resides in the beautiful Stirlingshire countryside with her young family, has been a full-time, self-taught soap maker since the Winter of 2022, where she also studied for and completed a business diploma in soap making—learning about the importance of creating cold process soap safely. Along with being a traditional soap maker, Chiara now creates beautifully effective, award-winning skincare, wildcrafted by nature and healing hands! As an avid herbologist, Chiara understands and appreciates the wonderfully healing power of nature, and, just like the seasons, everything takes its time. Small batch made, ensuring every product is not sitting on shelves for longer than necessary. Mostly all of the ingredients in her soaps, skin and haircare are locally foraged and sourced—better for you and the environment. In the autumn of 2022, after the loss of her father, Chiara studied Usui Shiki Rhoyo Reiki and is now a respected Reiki Master Healer, with a Shamanic Energy Healing and Crystal Healing diploma under her belt. A natural born healer and dream seer, Reiki has further deepened her path into spiritualism and mysticism, something that she is honoured to share through The Dark Island Soap Co.

A Tree Planted for Every Order!

For every order that passes through our website, we plant a tree somewhere on the globe. For wholesale orders, we plant 10 trees! Striving to do more for the planet as a business.

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Proudly a Net Zero Website

Being a net zero website means that for all the traffic that passes through our website, more trees are planted throughout the globe with Tree Nation, off-setting the carbon emissions made.

Reduce~Reuse~Recycle

At The Dark Island Soap Co. we prioritise reusing and recycling. We use packaging that arrives from stock orders to break down and use as protective padding for your orders, and to also use as secondary "safety boxes" to house your main order boxes in. If we ever receive plastic, you may see it in with your order (as bubble wrap to take an example), as we would rather reuse this harmful material (hoping that you will, too!) than just discard it straight to a landfill.

Plastic Free Communities; Surfers Against Sewage

The Dark Island Soap Co. are proud members of the Plastic Free Communities; Surfers Against Sewage, showing our dedication to being a plastic free and eco-friendly business.

Supporting Charities in the Western Isles

The Dark Island Soap Co. are proud to support charities in Uist, where often they are overlooked being so remote. So far, they have donated their products in Uist to Parkinson's Disease, Mental Health Awareness, and for Carers on South Uist who do a wonderful and selfless job every day. If you are a registered charity in Uist, please get in touch! At info@thedarkislandsoapco.com

Strùan Tea for Parkinson's

Fundraising in Uist to support the work of Parkinson's UK in Scotland.

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The Beacon: Supporting Mental Health in Uist

The Beacon is a mental health support group which is working towards becoming a non-profit charity. It is run by a team of local volunteers who have lived experiences of mental health.

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Western Isles Community Care Forum

Western Isles Community Care Forum SCIO (SC023918), established in 1992 as a forum which represent the interests of carers and users of voluntary care services throughout the Western Isles.

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  • Registered Office Address: The Dark Island Soap Co. LTD, Suite 2/3 Clyde Offices, 2nd Floor, 48 West George Street, Glasgow, G2 1BP
  • Company Registration No. SC756943

Disclaimer: The information is provided by The Dark Island Soap Co. LTD. We endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct. We make no medical claims, representations or warranties of any kind, expressed or implied, of the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability.