Welcome back, skincare warriors! A wise beauty once said, “Your skin will always make the first impression.” So, we think it’s high-time to embrace the world of natural skincare. Many are shifting gears these days and incorporating natural skincare into their routines. Think of it as a way to return to simplicity, purity, and harmony with nature’s skincare regimen. Honestly for us, skincare isn’t just about looking good. It’s also about nurturing that beautiful skin you’re in while respecting the environment. For this post, we’re diggin’ deep to be your comprehensive guide on all things natural cosmetics. And of course, our guide wouldn’t be complete without addressing natural skin care routines. Let’s glow!
The Essence of Natural Skincare
Understanding Natural vs. Synthetic
Let’s look at the facts about natural ingredients in cosmetics. Oftentimes, there’s this sneaking suspicion (or assumption) that natural ingredients are better for your precious skin than the fake (synthetic) ones. But before you jump the gun, it’s important to understand that not all natural ingredients are good for you and not all synthetic ones are the bad guys (or toxic). This is why we must discern the benefits of natural ingredients over synthetic alternatives (it’s more than just personal preference). Ingredients for natural skincare are gentler on the skin and can be very effective.
Here are the basics you need to know:
- Terminology & Symbols: This is your leg-up in the natural skincare game. You’ll need to look for labels and recognize terms that are telling of the purity and quality of the product. Labels might read “100% natural,” “organic,” or have symbols like the Soil Association’s logo (keep your eyes peeled).
- Certifications like ECOCERT or USDA Organic: This is a way to decode the authenticity of natural skincare products. ECOCERT means that the product follows strict ecological and organic standards. USDA Organic guarantees that the ingredients are grown without synthetic pesticides or GMOs (genetically modified organisms).
- Potentially Harmful Ingredients Hidden in Natural Products: Talk about a “Danger, Will Robinson!” moment… Some natural products ain’t all they’re cracked up to be. It’s absolutely crucial to be aware of potentially harmful substances lurking in seemingly natural products. Be on the lookout for hidden ingredients like synthetic fragrances (allergy trigger) and preservatives (may cause irritation).
Now that you know these potential pitfalls, get ready to be empowered as we learn more about genuinely beneficial and safe natural skincare.
The Benefits of Going Natural
It’s time to say goodbye to products that are doing us more harm than good. With natural skin care products and natural beauty products, you’re bound to reap the perks of better choices.
Here are the skin and environmental benefits of natural skincare ingredients:
Skin Benefits
- Gentle on the Skin: Natural ingredients are often less harsh and irritating compared to synthetic chemicals (makes them ideal for sensitive skin).
- Nourishing and Nutrient-Rich: Many natural ingredients, such as plant oils and botanical extracts, are rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids that nourish and rejuvenate the skin.
- Balanced pH Levels: The best natural skin care products are often formulated to match the skin’s natural pH. This helps to maintain the skin’s protective barrier and prevent irritation.
- Reduced Risk of Allergies: All-natural ingredients are less likely to contain harsh chemicals or synthetic fragrances. This can diminish the likelihood of triggering allergic reactions or sensitivities.
- Non-Toxic: Natural skincare products typically avoid harmful chemicals like parabens, phthalates, and sulfates. This minimizes the risk of long-term health concerns associated with synthetic ingredients.
Environmental Benefits
- Sustainable Sourcing: When you choose natural skincare ingredients, you’re helping preserve ecosystems, protecting biodiversity, and supporting local communities.
- Reduced Carbon Footprint: It’s awesome to opt for locally produced or minimally processed natural skincare products. This helps cut down on carbon emissions that come along with transportation and manufacturing.
- Biodegradability: Many natural ingredients are biodegradable (they break down easily without harming the environment). With synthetic chemicals, you can expect them to persist in ecosystems for long periods.
- Water Conservation: Some natural ingredients, such as drought-resistant botanicals, require less water for cultivation. This helps to conserve water resources and reduce environmental impact.
- Minimal Chemical Pollution: Natural skincare products typically contain fewer synthetic chemicals. This reduces the risk of chemical pollution in waterways and ecosystems.
When you take on the holistic decision of natural skincare, you’re leading the way for healthier skin and a healthier planet.
Decoding Natural Skin Care Ingredients
Time for a Skincare Whisperer decoding moment! When choosing natural cosmetics, it’s best to research the best natural skin care ingredients. Let’s take a closer look at some of the natural ingredients that are notorious for the effects on the skin:
Plant-based Oils
Why We Love ‘Em:
Natural skincare products with plant-based oils are the hydration bomb you need. Typically cold-pressed to retain their nutrients and antioxidants, they’re a go-to solution for maintaining skin health. Plus, they’re going to nourish the skin and provide essential fatty acids that strengthen the skin’s barrier.
How They’re Mixed into Formulas
Plant-based oils are often used as a base in skincare products. This is because they have the ability to dissolve other oil-based ingredients. They also help with skin absorption (win-win). You’ll see these in moisturizers, serums, and cleansers.
Here are the top natural plant-based oils to watch out for:
- Argan Oil: Moisturizing, rich in Vitamin E and fatty acids, good for hair and skin. (Try Pure Body Naturals Argan Oil for Skin and Face)
- Jojoba Oil: Mimics the skin’s natural oils, deeply hydrating, suitable for all skin types. (Try Cliganic Jojoba Oil)
- Rosehip Oil: High in vitamins A and C, promotes skin regeneration, and reduces scars and wrinkles. (Try Good Molecules Pure Cold- Pressed Rosehip Seed Oil)
- Tea Tree Oil: Antimicrobial properties, beneficial for acne-prone skin. (Try Truremedy Naturals Remedy Tea Tree Oil Body Wash)
- Coconut Oil: Deeply moisturizing, anti-inflammatory properties, ideal for dry skin. And speakin’ of coconut oil, try a hydrating lip mask like the Eight Saints Lip Trick Vanilla Lip Mask that targets and heals your lips with natural skin care ingredients.
Essential Oils
Why We Love ‘Em:
Essential oils are ingredients for natural skin care that are derived from highly concentrated plant extracts (obtained through steam distillation or cold pressing). This is gonna allow for a more potent delivery of benefits (think anti-inflammatory or antimicrobial effects in small amounts)
How They’re Mixed into Formulas
Used in small quantities and often diluted with carrier oils (to prevent skin irritation). They’re very popular in targeted treatment products like acne spot treatments or aromatherapeutic products.
Here are the top natural essential oils to look for:
- Eucalyptus Oil: Offers antimicrobial properties, effective for acne-prone and oily skin types. (Try Thymes Eucalyptus Body Lotion)
- Lavender Oil: Calming, anti-inflammatory, good for soothing skin and reducing redness. (Try RaGaNaturals Calming Lavender Hand and Body Cream)
- Peppermint Oil: Cooling effect, good for oily skin, and refreshing the senses. (Try Coco Fiji Soap Bar for Face and Body)
- Chamomile Oil: Soothes inflammation, ideal for sensitive skin and reducing redness. (Try Kerstin Florian Natural Chamomile Body Spray)
- Frankincense Oil: Promotes skin regeneration, anti-aging properties, and these natural skincare products are good for skin tone. (Try Love Yourself Party Natural Face Cream Hemp Moisturizer)
Natural Exfoliants
Why We Love ‘Em:
Natural exfoliants are gentle yet effective. These natural ingredients for skin care products are going to remove dead skin cells without the harshness of synthetic microbeads.
How They’re Mixed into Formulas
These ingredients are used in the raw (that means minimal processing). It’s gonna maintain their physical exfoliating properties much better this way. You’ll typically find these mixed into cleansers or masks to create a scrub-like consistency.
Here are the top natural exfoliants to watch out for:
- Glycolic Acid: Derived from sugar cane, this helps in effective exfoliation and skin renewal. (Try Eight Saints All In Eye Cream)
- Lactic Acid: Sourced from milk, gentle on the skin, hydrating, and enhances skin texture. (Try Acure Resurfacing Inter-gly-lactic Exfoliator)
- Salicylic Acid: A BHA ideal for deep pore cleansing and treating acne-prone skin. (Try Naturopathica Colloidal Silver & Salicylic Acid Acne Clearing Cleanser)
- Jojoba Beads: Gentle exfoliant, ideal for sensitive skin, non-abrasive. (Try The Jojoba Company Bead Cleanser With Papaya & Quandong)
- Oatmeal: Soothing exfoliant, good for sensitive or irritated skin, also hydrating. (Try 360Feel Oatmeal Milk & Castile Handmade Soap Bar)
Vitamins and Antioxidants
Why We Love ‘Em:
Vitamins and antioxidants are natural skincare ingredients that play their role in skin health. They protect the skin from environmental damage, prevent premature aging, and enhance the skin’s overall radiance
How They’re Mixed into Formulas
They’re often stabilized in specific forms to enhance effectiveness and extend shelf life. For instance, Vitamin C might be used as ascorbic acid or sodium ascorbyl phosphate, depending on the product’s pH and purpose. The best natural skin care products infuse these ingredients into serums, creams, and masks for targeted skin benefits (anti-aging or brightening).
Here are the top vitamins and antioxidants to look out for:
- Vitamin C: Brightening, collagen production, and antioxidant protection. (Try Juice Beauty Phyto-Pigments Flawless Serum Foundation)
- Vitamin E: Moisturizing, healing, and works synergistically with Vitamin C for antioxidant protection. (Try evanhealy Light Moisture Replenishing Fluid)
- Retinol (Vitamin A): Promotes skin renewal, reduces signs of aging, and improves skin texture. (Try LilyAna Naturals Retinol Cream)
- Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): Reduces inflammation, evens skin tone, and improves skin barrier function. (Try Eight Saints Up The Anti Anti-Aging Night Cream)
- Resveratrol: A powerful antioxidant with anti-aging and skin-calming properties. (Try M. Asam Resveratrol Premium NT50 Lifting Face Cream)
Herbal Extracts
Why We Love ‘Em:
Herbal extracts can be very rewarding for natural and organic skincare products. This is because of their notable calming and soothing effects on the skin (perfect for sensitive or irritated skin types).
How They’re Mixed into Formulas
You’ll find herbal extracts are typically infused into water or oil bases to create serums, tonics, and moisturizers. But these can also be incorporated into natural cosmetics as active ingredients in cleansers, masks, and creams.
Here are the top herbal extracts to look for:
- Green Tea Extract: Rich in antioxidants, used in anti-aging and sun-care products. (Try SEAMANTIKA Puffy Eyes Treatment)
- Chamomile Extract: Known for soothing properties, often found in products for sensitive skin. (Try Era Organics Rosacea Relief Cream)
- Aloe Vera: Used for its hydrating and soothing benefits, common in moisturizers and after-sun products. (Try Eight Saints Seeking C Vitamin C Serum)
- Calendula Extract: Beneficial for healing and soothing, used in creams for damaged or irritated skin. (Try DERMALOGY by NEOGENLAB)
- Licorice Root Extract: Known for brightening and anti-inflammatory properties, used in products targeting hyperpigmentation and redness. (Try Nurture Nature Face Cream by Davis Finest)
Natural Acids
Why We Love ‘Em:
Natural acids, including AHAs and BHAs are some of the best natural ingredients for skin care. These lovely additions are going to help remove dead skin cells (leading the way to smoother skin). They also improve the skin tone (fading hyperpigmentation and evening out skin tone). Get ready to stimulate collagen production and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles!
How They’re Mixed into Formulas
Natural acids are typically found in exfoliating serums, toners, and cleansers. They’re balanced with soothing ingredients (so.. no worries about irritation)
Here are the top natural acids to look for:
- Glycolic Acid: That sweet sugar cane again, used in peels and exfoliating cleansers. (Try Eva Naturals Glycolic Acid Face Wash)
- Lactic Acid: Sourced from sour milk (as mentioned above), commonly found in gentle exfoliating products. (Try eraclea Daily Bamboo Exfoliant)
- Citric Acid: From citrus fruits, used in brightening serums and toners. (Try TruSkin Vitamin C Face Serum)
- Salicylic Acid: A BHA found in willow bark, used in acne treatments. (Try NeedCrystals Microdermabrasion Crystals)
- Malic Acid: From apples, used in combination with other AHAs for comprehensive exfoliation. (Try Natural 2,5% AHA Clarifying Toner with Prickly Pear Enzymes)
Floral Waters or Hydrosols
Why We Love ‘Em:
Floral waters are natural skincare ingredients that are awesome for reducing skin irritation and redness. They provide light moisture and restore the skin’s natural pH balance after cleansing. With these waters, you’re gonna get a refreshing and cooling effect (perfect in hot weather or post-workout). Plus, these ingredients have refreshing scents that can have a calming effect on the mind.
How They’re Mixed into Formulas
These are often a base ingredient in toners, mists, and some lightweight moisturizers. The best natural skin care products will have these in cleansers and masks for those oh-so-soothin’ properties.
Here are the top floral waters to watch for:
- Rose Water: Popular for its hydrating and soothing properties, used in toners and facial mists. (Try Vie Beauty 30ROSES Hydrating Rose Water Facial Mist)
- Lavender Water: Known for its calming effects, often found in products for sensitive skin. (Try Thracian BIO 100% Pure Bulgarian Lavender Floral Water)
- Witch Hazel: Good for oily and acne-prone skin due to its astringent properties, used in toners. (Try SEACRET MUD SOAP BAR)
- Orange Blossom Water: Refreshing and toning, used in skin mists and light moisturizers. (Try ANNEMARIE BÖRLIND – Orange Blossom Energizer Face Serum)
- Chamomile Water: Calming and soothing, ideal for irritated or sensitive skin types, used in soothing sprays and toners. (Try Raya Chamomile Facial Cleansing Oil)
Top Natural Skin Care Brands
There are many brands we’re quite fond of when it comes to skin care with natural ingredients. To make our list, there’s certain criteria they have to meet.
Here’s what we’ve got our eye on when it comes to skin care natural brands:
- Purity: These brands are committed to using high-quality, often organic, natural ingredients, free from harmful chemicals (many Korean skincare routines boast of purity).
- Effectiveness: Each brand has a strong reputation for delivering results. The evidence lies in customer reviews and clinical tests where applicable.
- Ethical Practices: This includes sustainable sourcing of ingredients, environmentally friendly manufacturing processes, cruelty-free testing, and ethical business operations.
Check out the brands that made the cut below:
Eight Saint Skincare
Eight Saints Skincare provides some of the best natural ingredients for skin care. They incorporate natural ingredients that are well-known for their benefits. They’re committed to purity, efficacy, and ethics. This brand doesn’t use controversial synthetics or known toxins. So if you’re ready to go all-natural, Eight Saints is worth a try.
Dr. Hauschka
Sensitive skin be damned! Dr. Hauschka is a brand known for their natural beauty products. These gems are biodynamically grown and ethically sourced. This brand works in close cooperation with doctors, research institutes, and estheticians to give you effective products backed by science.
Origins
Origins is among the skin care natural brands that bring a lot to the table. The brand is known for combining natural ingredients and science to create effective skincare solutions. They’re free of phthalates, parabens, formaldehyde, SLS, animal ingredients (exceptions for cruelty-free honey and beeswax), and more! If you’re trying to even out your skin tone and fade dark marks, this brand could be your go-to option.
Burt’s Bees
Natural beauty products like Burt’s Bees are earth friendly and allow you to harness the power of nature. This brand is famously known for its lip balms. However, they offer a full range of natural ethos products and follow environmentally friendly practices (such as no animal testing). The brand is here to help you hydrate while revealing beautiful skin in a holistic way.
Aesop
Skin care natural brands like Aesop are all-vegan. They blend science with plant-based ingredients. Their focus on high-quality, sustainable ingredients is evident as they formulate essential oils and natural extracts (giving you many skin benefits).
Kiehl’s
Kiehl’s natural beauty products like to keep things simple. While not exclusively natural, the brand incorporates many natural ingredients. Plus, their ethical practices stand out in their product line. The brand was founded in 1851 and raises the bar with products like eye creams, night creams, face masks, and more.
Transitioning to Natural Skin Care
If you decide to make a gradual shift or complete overhaul to skin care with natural ingredients, you’ll need to carefully consider both options. Let’s take a look at the difference:
- Gradual Shift: This is going to be less of a shock to the skin. It’s also going to give you time to observe how your skin reacts to each new product. Additionally, it’s cost-effective. This is perfect for those who already have a routine in place.
- Complete Overhaul: This aligns quickly with natural skincare principles. There’s definitely a potential for faster results but with an expensive price tag. Plus, there’s a risk of adverse reactions due to sudden change. It can also be more of a challenge to identify which products work best. This is best for those who don’t have a routine (or at least, not a specific one) yet.
How to phase out synthetic products for a smooth transition:
- Start by using products that stay on your skin for the longest amount of time (moisturizers and serums).
- Replace products as they run out with natural alternatives.
- Pay attention to any skin reactions.
- Patch test new products to minimize reactions.
Building a Routine
To build a natural skincare routine, you’re going to need to place focus on where you need it the most:
Morning routine: For protection.
Night routine: For repair and rejuvenation.
Let’s dig a little deeper into how to make these the best natural skin care routines below:
Morning Routine
- Cleanser: Gentle cleansing to remove nighttime build-up.
- Toner: Balances skin’s pH and preps it for further products.
- Serum: Antioxidant-rich serum for daytime protection.
- Moisturizer: Light, hydrating formula for day use.
- Sunscreen: This is an essential final step for protection against UV damage.
Night Routine
- Cleanser: More thorough cleansing to remove makeup and daily pollutants.
- Toner: Same as morning or a more hydrating version.
- Treatment/Serum: Products with active ingredients like AHAs, retinol (use according to skin type and need).
- Eye Cream: Address specific concerns like dark circles or puffiness.
- Moisturizer: Heavier than day creams, to deeply nourish skin overnight.
Tailor your routine with targeted natural solutions for specific concerns (hyperpigmentation, acne) and choose products based on your skin type.
Common Misconceptions about Natural Skincare
“Natural Means Completely Safe”
Why this is a misconception:
There seems to be a belief that ingredients derived from nature should be gentle and risk-free. Of course, many natural ingredients offer us benefits, but natural skincare products don’t always mean ‘hypoallergenic,’ honey. Unfortunately, despite that ‘natural tag,’ ingredients like essential oils may cause reactions, especially in sensitive skin (making patch tests crucial). To get to the bottom of this, we need to identify what these terms mean:
- Natural: Directly sourced from nature (plant extracts, minerals, or animal-derived substances). However, this term isn’t regulated. Products labeled this way may still contain synthetic additives or preservatives (doesn’t automatically mean it’s safe or efficient).
- Organic: Cultivated without synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or GMOs. This means the product adheres to certifications like USDA Organic or ECOCERT (as mentioned earlier). Expect strict compliance with organic farming standards in products with this label.
- Dermatologist-Tested: Means that the product has gone through testing by dermatologists to determine if it’s safe to use on the skin. Although this ensures a level of safety, there’s no guarantee that the product will work for everyone. Skin reactions can still result, such as allergies or sensitivities.
Stay in-the-know by reading the ingredient lists and check for any certifications to make the best choice when it comes to your skincare.
“If It’s Natural, It’s Good for the Environment”
Why this is a misconception:
Sometimes, we’re hoodwinked by skin-care natural brands. It comes from the assumption that products derived from natural sources have a minimal impact on our environment. However, that’s just not true. Here’s why:
- Impact of Sourcing Natural Ingredients: Can result in adverse environmental effects (deforestation, habitat loss, biodiversity decline).
- Water Usage and Scarcity: Crops like cotton or almonds need extensive irrigation. Excessive use of water can contribute to water scarcity.
Double Check Skincare Eco-Friendly products by:
- Looking beyond the “natural” label.
- Checking for ECOCERT, Fair Trade, Rainforest Alliance, and USDA Organic.
These tips will help you find the best all-natural ingredients that follow eco-friendly practices.
“All Synthetic Ingredients are Bad”
Why this is a misconception:
Contrary to popular belief that anything artificial or synthetic is harmful, not all synthetic ingredients are detrimental to skincare.
Synthetic ingredients can:
- Enhance Efficacy: Designed to have specific properties that enhance skincare products (synthetic antioxidants can provide stable, potent protection).
- Provide Stability and Safety: Synthetics can help maintain the integrity of a product, allowing it to stay effective over time and keep it safe for more long-term use.
Examples of Beneficial Synthetic Ingredients:
- Hyaluronic Acid: Naturally occurring in the body, but the synthetic form is used in skincare for its exceptional hydration properties. Some of the best natural skin care products like Eight Saints Pep Rally Hyaluronic Acid Serum contain this synthetic ingredient.
- Peptides: Laboratory-made to mimic natural skin regeneration processes, helping in anti-aging and skin repair.
Understanding Ingredient Labels: What to Look For and What to Avoid:
When decoding those labels, be aware of harmful substances that may be present in skincare products. Ingredients to steer clear from include:
- Parabens
- Phthalates
- Synthetic Fragrances
- Sulfates
Remember: not all synthetic ingredients are harmful. Just check labels carefully when choosing skincare products.
“The More Natural Ingredients, the Better”
Why this is a misconception:
In marketing, products with many natural ingredients are often portrayed as more effective, or even luxurious. Although it seems like a nice thought, it’s important to realize that more isn’t always better.
Let’s take a closer look at the why:
- Marketing Influence: This creates an impression that can lead customers to believe that more ingredients increases the product’s effectiveness (but it doesn’t).
- Minimalistic Approach: When it comes to all natural ingredients for skin care, a minimalistic approach can often yield better results. By simplifying the ingredients list, it’s going to be a whole lot easier to figure out what works or causes issues for your skin.
Examples of Effectiveness:
Single-ingredient products like pure argan oil or rosehip oil can be more effective due to their undiluted properties (woot-woot, for no interference from other ingredients).
By keeping these things in mind, you’ll be able to identify sensitivities to products and personalize your skincare routine.
The Future of Natural Skincare
The beauty industry and natural beauty products are continuously evolving. The future of natural skincare is in our hands! Here’s what’s new in natural skincare:
- Green Chemistry:
What’s New: Green chemistry focuses on creating products that are effective, eco-friendly, and sustainable.
Why it Matters: The use of sustainable and non-toxic ingredients reduces the impact made on our environment.
- Microbiome-Friendly Products:
What’s New: Skincare products that support the skin’s microbiome. We’re talkin’ probiotic skincare that maintains and restores the natural balance of our glorious skin!
Why it Matters: Probiotic skincare aims to boost the overall diversity of beneficial microorganisms on the skin, for that healthy and resilient complexion!
- Waterless Beauty:
What’s New: The waterless, or anhydrous, beauty products trend is gaining momentum. This conserves water and usually results in more concentrated and effective products.
Why it Matters: Concentrated formulas mean smaller packaging (for that eco-friendly approach to skincare, babe).
- Carbon Footprint Reduction:
What’s new: A commitment from skincare brands to reduce their carbon footprint through means such as local sourcing, renewable energy initiatives, and carbon offset programs.
Why it Matters: Basically, it’s environmentally responsible. Brands are taking action to reduce their environmental impact and it shows.
Your Takeaway
Natural ingredients are paramount (and so is reading the ingredients label carefully). We’ve covered all things natural skin care products in hopes that you can gain a better understanding of a holistic approach to skin health. Always be sure to choose natural skincare products that expose your skin to wholesome, plant-based ingredients (bye-bye harsh chemical overload).
And.. keep the things we’ve discussed here in mind when choosing your very own natural skin care routine:
- Plant-based oils: Strengthen that skin barrier, honey.
- Essential Oils: Calm inflammation
- Exfoliants: Healthier skin (minus the harshness of synthetics, boo).
- Vitamins & Antioxidants: Say hello to promoting collagen production (as you moisturize).
- Extracts: Soothin’ and perfect for sensitive skin.
- Natural Acids: Renew that skin you’re in.
- Floral Waters: Skin that feels balanced and hydrated.
We’re excited to see where this radiant skin care journey takes you. Be sure to keep us posted in the comments below! Until next time, beautiful!
