The Lather: Stark's Journal

Stark Skincare being handmade in a small-batch studio in Canada

Handcrafted Skincare: What It Actually Means (a...

Jessica Lafleur

"Handcrafted" is everywhere. Here's what it actually means at Stark — small batches, self-formulated, made in Canada — and what it doesn't mean, including the preservative conversation most brands skip.

Handcrafted Skincare: What It Actually Means (a...

Jessica Lafleur

"Handcrafted" is everywhere. Here's what it actually means at Stark — small batches, self-formulated, made in Canada — and what it doesn't mean, including the preservative conversation most brands skip.

Linoleic Acid for Skin: The Fatty Acid Your Barrier Might Be Missing

Linoleic Acid for Skin: The Fatty Acid Your Bar...

Jessica Lafleur

Of all the fatty acids in skincare, linoleic acid is the one worth actually understanding. It explains why some oils feel great on your skin and others just sit there...

Linoleic Acid for Skin: The Fatty Acid Your Bar...

Jessica Lafleur

Of all the fatty acids in skincare, linoleic acid is the one worth actually understanding. It explains why some oils feel great on your skin and others just sit there...

Jessica Lafleur formulating Stark Skincare products by hand in small batches in the Ottawa Valley

How Skincare Products Are Developed: The Stark ...

Jessica Lafleur

Discover how Stark develops skincare products from scratch. Learn why some reformulations take months, and why slow product development leads to better results.

How Skincare Products Are Developed: The Stark ...

Jessica Lafleur

Discover how Stark develops skincare products from scratch. Learn why some reformulations take months, and why slow product development leads to better results.

Stark Skincare Beauty Shortlist Awards 2026 winners, best organic skincare brand Canada

Stark Skincare Wins 11 Beauty Shortlist Awards ...

Jessica Lafleur

Stark Skincare wins 11 Beauty Shortlist Awards 2026, including Best Natural/Organic Brand Canada. Discover the award-winning Canadian skincare products loved for real results.

Stark Skincare Wins 11 Beauty Shortlist Awards ...

Jessica Lafleur

Stark Skincare wins 11 Beauty Shortlist Awards 2026, including Best Natural/Organic Brand Canada. Discover the award-winning Canadian skincare products loved for real results.

Essential oils and botanical skincare ingredients — when fragrance-free skincare is the better choice for sensitive or reactive skin

I Formulate With Essential Oils. Here's Why I A...

Jessica Lafleur

Essential oils are safe for most skin, but not all. Learn who should consider fragrance-free skincare and why sensitization happens over time.

I Formulate With Essential Oils. Here's Why I A...

Jessica Lafleur

Essential oils are safe for most skin, but not all. Learn who should consider fragrance-free skincare and why sensitization happens over time.

Jar of beef tallow next to botanical skincare oils — comparing tallow skincare trend to plant-based alternatives

Why the Tallow Skincare Trend Isn't It

Jessica Lafleur

Beef tallow skincare is everywhere, but is rendered cow fat really good for your face? Stark breaks down the science, the risks, and better options. Read more...

Why the Tallow Skincare Trend Isn't It

Jessica Lafleur

Beef tallow skincare is everywhere, but is rendered cow fat really good for your face? Stark breaks down the science, the risks, and better options. Read more...

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