Few people get an intimate glimpse into the lives of the British Royal family, but Deborah Mitchell is one of the rare insiders. For nearly two decades, the renowned facialist has worked with Queen Camilla, offering her signature Heaven Skincare treatments. Now, her expertise and commitment have earned her one of the highest honours in British business – a Royal Warrant, personally awarded by the Queen.
While Deborah’s Royal connections helped bring her brand into the spotlight, her dedication to innovation has kept it there. Before receiving the warrant, she was also honoured with a Coronation Medal, recognising her contributions in the lead-up to King Charles III’s crowning. The honour further cemented her place among Britain’s most trusted beauty experts.
Sustainability is at the heart of Deborah’s ethos, aligning with the strict environmental standards required for a Royal Warrant. As International Day of Zero Waste takes place on 30 March, her brand stands as a prime example of responsible luxury, reports the Mirror.
Here, we chat to Deborah about Royal skincare regimes and how she first came to meet Camilla….
Congratulations on your Royal Warrant! How does it feel to have that recognition?
I’m over the moon. The process was intense – you’re invited to apply, then go through sustainability checks, and they assess if your business is run the right way. It felt like a constant nail-biter. Even after passing the requirements, there was no guarantee. Finally, on 19 December at midnight, we were allowed to announce it. It was an amazing moment.
Did you think you’d get it?
I hoped, but you can never be certain. It’s a massive honour, and the process is rigorous. It’s much easier not to get it than to receive one.
Can you share how you first met Queen Camilla….
Back in 2006, I was at my salon when I received a call from Clarence House [royal residence] asking if I’d treat Camilla Parker Bowles – this was before she became Queen Consort. I couldn’t tell anyone, not even my mum, for about five years. I treat a lot of celebrities, and I never disclose names, but over time, my connection with her grew. My mum even got invited to Clarence House for an event. Back then, I was known for a LIA facial therapy that lent into healing the mind, body and skin. When I treat someone, I naturally understand what their skin and body need.
How do you prepare for an appointment with Queen Camilla?
The day before, I double check everything – if I’m travelling, my car or flight, my skincare products, and any extras she might need. Her favourites are the Age Defiance Cream, Bee Venom Mask, and my new Collagen Drops skin supplement. I always include a few new things for her to try. I don’t feel nervous until right before, but once the treatment is done, I realise how much I overthink it.
Do you solely use your Heaven Skincare products during the treatments?
Yes, that’s what I received the Royal Warrant for – my treatments and skincare. My products have no downtime either, and that’s why I think celebrities book me. They can see a surgeon or something like that for intense treatment, but mine give an instant glow. Even the peel I do is very light and gentle but still effective.
Tell us how you came to create your brand….
I started making skincare at 17 – this year, I turn 60. I’d mix products and give them to clients as a mobile therapist. We officially incorporated 30 years ago. I’ve been treating Queen Camilla for around 20 of those years, so in a way, I’m still a mobile therapist – I just go to see queens in palaces now!
Your Bee Venom Mask has been a beauty industry favourite for over a decade. How did it come about?
I whipped it up when I noticed my own skin showing signs of ageing. I was after something that could mimic the effects of Botox, but naturally. When I slathered it on, my skin instantly looked more youthful, lines faded away, and even rashes disappeared within moments. Bee venom fools the skin into thinking it’s been stung, sparking a healing response.
Grab the Royal-approved Bee Venom mask for less!
Heaven Skincare is offering OK! and Mirror readers a 20% discount on products. Just use the code MIRROR20 for 20% off across the site (subscription-based products aren’t included in the deal).
The mask is even whispered to be a favourite of the Princess of Wales….
You could say there’s been a fair bit of chatter. When I first concocted it, my clients shared it with their family and friends, who in turn adored it. The results were so astounding that other brands tried to copy it, but my formula – Abeetoxin – is patented, meaning even those allergic to bee stings can use it. I can’t spill the beans on who else might use it, but now with the Royal Warrant, people recognise its authenticity.
Were you gobsmacked by how quickly it flew off the shelves when those rumours started circulating?
I was, but the success arrived at a personally challenging time. My business skyrocketed, I was jetting around the world in first class, and popping up in the press. Yet, personally, I wasn’t in a great place. Now, I’m blissfully married, my daughter works alongside me, and I appreciate it all so much more.
What’s it like working with royalty? Is it more nerve-wracking than celebrities?
Actually, working with royals is a breeze. They’re incredibly kind and considerate. They ask about your journey and whether you’re comfortable. Celebs can be a mixed bag – some are lovely, but others are so busy they don’t have that same space for thoughtfulness.
Any standout celeb moments from your career?
Once, while working in Taiwan, Kylie Minogue sent me and my team concert tickets. She’s a big fan of my Orange Flower Hydrogel, which she passed on to her sister Dannii, who also became a fan. When Dannii moved abroad, we had to find an Australian distributor just for her.
What’s your top skincare advice for women wanting to look more youthful naturally?
Invest in the Bee Venom Moisturiser – it doubles as both a face and eye cream. When applying cleanser or toner, massage it in using pressure rather than stretching the skin. It’s important to invest a little bit of money in a moisturiser, but don’t buy ridiculously expensive ones hoping that they will work better. Read the ingredients labels and watch out for silicones. They’re like plastic bags that don’t do anything, they just cause a slip on your skin.