This story is part of the Comox Valley Record’s fall edition of Trio Magazine, published quarterly and available throughout the Comox Valley.

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Upon returning from a life-changing year in Germany as an au pair at 18, Holly Ireland embraced her calling and embarked on a remarkable journey – one that led her straight into the captivating world of hairstyling, and makeup artistry.

She thrived as a successful hairstylist for over 13 years, basking in the glory of owning her own salon and tending to a devoted clientele. However, life took a sudden, unforeseen turn when Ireland faced the daunting reality of a breast cancer diagnosis. Seeking answers and solace, she delved into the depths of the internet, only to uncover a heartbreaking betrayal within her beloved industry.

The very products she had devoted her life to were tainted by toxic ingredients, hormone disruptors, and carcinogens that she noted had no place on her skin, let alone on that of her clients.

Amidst the adversity, a beacon of hope emerged – Beautycounter. This revolutionary movement, grounded in transparency, ethics, and audacious rebellion, captivated her heart. A Certified B Corporation, Beautycounter’s mission to create clean, non-toxic, and ethical beauty standards resonated with Ireland.

She blends clean living with a dash of audacious indulgence. From non-toxic laundry products to safer hairstyling, from makeup that shimmers with purity to the occasional hair bleaching, and teeth whitening, Ireland’s life is an embodiment of balance and transformation as she channels her rebellious spirit into advocating for a world where beauty is untainted and pure, where every choice we make leaves a legacy of health and empowerment.

• What is something you’re really proud of?

Lately, I’ve been reflecting on how far I’ve come with my body confidence - five years ago I knew I wanted to own my flat chest and my scars after the double mastectomy but I struggled so much with what it looked like, and not seeing any bodies like mine represented didn’t help. I am proud of myself for not caring what other people think or what society says is sexy/feminine. Sexy is a state of mind, and I don’t need two fatty mounds upon my chest to feel like a woman. I am proud of my body, and want other women to see it and know they have multiple choices if ever faced with a mastectomy.

• What is it about non-toxic skincare and products that made you do what you do?

The reassurance of not having to worry about ingredients and adding any extra stress to my body’s toxin load, so that I can focus on living my best life.

• As a breast cancer survivor, what is one thing you would like people to know about?

I want people to know they can ask questions and advocate for themselves if something doesn’t feel right. You are not a burden, or too much.

• What is a skill you’d like to learn and why?

I’d like to learn how to play the ukulele, I love the way it sounds and I have romanticized playing at the beach with friends around a bonfire.

• What is a random fact about you that few people might know?

I truly believe that the universe is conspiring to give me everything I want. Also, there is a disco ball in every room of my house.

• If you could only keep five possessions, what would they be?

My camera, olive oil, my 40-year-old cast iron frying pan, nail clippers, sunglasses and a cozy sweater.

• Coffee, tea or other - what is your go-to drink?

Coffee in the morning, matcha in the afternoon, and cacao in the evening. On repeat.

• What makes your heart beat faster?

I’ve always been an adrenaline junky, it takes a lot for me to get amped up, but snowboarding and surfing always gets me going. That and four-way stops in Comox.

• If you could have a conversation over dinner with one person - living or dead - who would it be?

My grandpa Harry. He was my rock growing up. I’d ask him more questions about his childhood in Austria, and make sure he was telling the truth. He used to tell really tall tales, and I would believe all of them.

• It’s a beautiful, sunny summer day in the Valley and you’re not working - what are you doing?

Hanging out with my rad kids, most likely paddleboarding on Comox Lake, or swimming at a not-so-secret river spot.

Find Ireland on Instagram at @holly_is_magic