Over the years, we have become conscious of what we put in our bodies and as well as what we put on our bodies. This awareness of what is good for our skin and what is not has led to the growth of natural skin care products.
Furthermore, climate change is also prompting us to make more sustainable choices to protect our planet.
But how do we choose the right natural skincare product? How do we know that we are making the right choice?
WHAT MAKES A SKINCARE PRODUCT NATURAL?
Natural skincare products contain naturally derived ingredients that are mainly plant-based. These products are free from chemicals such as fragrances, dyes, and preservatives.
Natural skincare products may contain numerous labels, ranging from organic to sulphate-free. When choosing the right natural skincare product, these labels can get confusing.
So let us understand what these labels mean so that we are confident that we are making the right decision.
When a skincare product is organic, it contains agricultural products. And when a product carries the USDA organic seal, at least 95% of the ingredients are organic. Whereas if a product is 'made with organic ingredients', it contains at least 70% organic materials.
Preservatives are necessary to preserve a product and prevent bacterial or mould growth. Parabens such as methylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben, and ethylparaben are commonly used preservatives in chemical skincare products. Research indicates that these parabens can affect hormones or increase the risk of fertility issues. Moreover, they can also lead to allergic reactions. Natural skincare products do not contain parabens and hence are labelled as paraben-free.
But natural products do contain preserving agents such as essential oils or plant extracts as they contain naturally occurring alcohols.
Phthalates are substances added to plastics to make them more flexible and durable. Research demonstrates that phthalates also disrupt the hormonal balance in the human body, resulting in an array of hormonal issues or fertility problems. Natural skincare products may also be labelled as phthalate-free.
To ensure proper mixing of ingredients such as oil and water, surfactants such as sulphates are added to skincare products. Most natural skin care products are sulphate-free.
NATURAL SKINCARE PRODUCTS
Now that you have decided to embark on this natural beauty journey, choosing the right natural skincare product for your skin type can be overwhelming.
Here is a list of natural skincare brands and their best-selling products to help you get started.
I. JUICE BEAUTY
Founded in 2005 by Karen Behnke, the basic premise of Juice Beauty is to formulate natural skin care products with an antioxidant-rich organic botanical juice base. Backed by multiple clinical tests, Karen started the skincare collection; All In for All Skin.
Stem Cellular CC Cream is a 12-in-1 colour-correcting moisturizer that comes in 7 shades. It contains key ingredients aloe leaf juice, coconut oil, and grape juice. These contain antioxidants that minimize the signs of aging. Additionally, it has 20% zinc oxide, which also functions as a SPF 30 sunscreen.
II. LA VERNE
Grounded in research, La Verne carries the Made Safe seal, certifying that the products do not contain the 6500 harmful chemicals known to harm human and environmental health. The products contain certified organic ingredients and wild-harvested ingredients.
The Lumiere Advanced Anti-aging Glowing Serum contains a high percentage of hyaluronic acid, Tocopherol, and Pantothenic Acid. With clinically proven results, this active serum fights the five signs of aging.
III. COCO KIND
Founded by Pricilla Tsai, Cocokind focuses on hydration and barrier support and is one of the most affordable natural skincare brands. Furthermore, their packaging includes a formulation facts panel and the company's carbon footprint.
The rich moisture + barrier duo consists of resurrection polypeptide cream and ceramide barrier serum. This nourishing pair is a support system for those with dry and sensitive skin.
IV. COSRX
The term Activist Skincare is a blend of active ingredients + advocating for change. They make skincare products that are free of parabens, artificial fragrances, artificial dyes, alcohol, mineral oils, essential oils, and other chemicals.
The AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner contains Salix Alba Bark Water, Allantoin, and Pyrus Malus Fruit Water for skin troubled by blemishes, dark spots, clogged pores, and redness.
THIS IS JUST THE BEGINNING
The above brands are just a few brands producing natural and sustainable skincare products. The natural skin care business is expected to grow by 6.5% by 2032, implying that there are and will be a plethora of natural skin care brands to choose from. Finding the perfect skincare routine might be a cumbersome task.
However, beginning cautiously and continuing to research what you put on your skin will always be beneficial.