The natural skincare trend has been emerging for a while now, as consumers increasingly demand recognizable ingredients in the products that they use daily. But avoiding products with suspect ingredients takes time, effort and, sometimes, a little extra money. As skincare enthusiasts, we believe this cost is well worth the benefit to your health. And as you’re resolving to be a better version of yourself in the new year, why not add natural skincare to the list of your healthy life changes?
Here are some tips to get you started.
Ingredients to watch out for
There’s plenty of controversy around the toxicity of specific ingredients, so we’re simply going to recommend ingredients to avoid if you want to be extra safe.
Parabens
Many personal care products contain parabens, preservatives that prevent bacteria from growing in your face cleanser or liquid foundation. Their chemical structure is similar to that of estrogen, so they can mimic this hormone’s activity in the body. Look for products that state on the label that they are paraben-free.
Phthalates
Research studying the link between phthalates and chronic diseases is ongoing. Some of that research focuses on certain groups of the population that appear to be more sensitive to phthalates than others. There are several types of phthalates, so you might see them identified on ingredient labels as DHEP or DiBP. Also look for products labeled phthalate-free.
What does “natural” mean?
Natural skincare products are typically made from botanical ingredients like the extracts of certain leaves, barks, roots and flowers. Fruit extract is also frequently used for its antioxidant properties.
In anti-aging products, look for humectants, which are ingredients that attract moisture and hydrate your skin. Avoid synthetic humectants like urea and silicone and opt instead for natural humectants like aloe, honey, hyaluronic acid and glycerin.
Some anti-aging products contain caffeine, because it is believed to reduce inflammation by temporarily constricting blood vessels. This makes your skin look firmer and smoother. Topically-applied caffeine can also soothe puffy bags or dark circles under your eyes.
Pumpkin enzymes can be found in cleansers and exfoliants. In addition to containing Vitamins A and C, pumpkin has a very small molecular structure, meaning it can penetrate deep into the skin to brighten and firm a dull complexion.
What are some of the top brands?
Now is the time when we resolve to make positive changes in our lives, so why not add skincare to the list of areas you want to improve? Use these simple tips to start a natural skincare routine, and face 2019 with a fresh, rejuvenated complexion!