We have all been at a point where we’re done with the “chemicals” & rush to switch to an “all-natural” alternative, especially for skincare (let’s reminisce our chemistry classes & remember, everything in this world is a chemical) Well for starters, it does make sense… your skin being rejuvenated with the goodness of natural ingredients, blessed with the caring touch of nature. No harsh chemicals on your skin means a long-term, guilt-free skincare routine that will yield much better results but is that really the case? If you are a skincare enthusiast, you already know the market is plagued by tonnes of products that claim to be natural so the question arises “What works & what doesn’t?”
What is Natural Skincare?
For a product to be considered “Natural” it needs to meet certain criterias. Factors like ingredient sourcing, absence of synthetic materials, minimal processing & cruelty-free ethical procedures determine the “Natural” status of a product. Alternatively, a product can be classified as “natural” if it contains natural ingredients of a value equal to or more than 49% (approximate) of the contents. This pertain to the technical aspects of it but what about the practical uses?
Natural skincare makes sense at an individual level, wherein you as a person source the ingredients & incorporate it into your skincare routine. This process might seem plausible at an individual level but it just doesn’t make sense when you industrialize the entire process. Part of the results that are yielded by Natural Skincare is the effort put in by an individual which might even trigger a placebo of sorts. When you scale it up to an industrial level, the individual touch, the effort & the quality of ingredients drastically drops & chemical enhancers come into the picture. So, in the end chances are… you end up with a product that’s “natural” but only technically. But hey, if it works for you it works for you, but chances are it most probably won’t here’s why.
Benefits of Natural Skincare
Natural skincare products offer several potential benefits, making them popular among individuals seeking gentler and potentially more environmentally friendly alternatives. One of the main advantages is that natural skincare products are gentle on the skin, as they often contain milder ingredients derived from plants and botanical extracts. This makes them suitable for individuals with sensitive or reactive skin, as they are less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions. Additionally, natural ingredients used in skincare products, such as plant oils, shea butter, and aloe vera, are known for their moisturizing and nourishing properties, helping to hydrate and replenish the skin. Here are some benefits that make natural skincare appealing & highly sought after:
Gentle on the Skin
Natural skincare products often contain milder ingredients derived from plants, herbs, and botanical extracts. They can be less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions compared to products with synthetic chemicals, making them suitable for individuals with sensitive or reactive skin.
Nourishing and Moisturizing
Many natural ingredients used in skincare products, such as plant oils (e.g., jojoba, argan), shea butter, and aloe vera, are known for their moisturizing and nourishing properties. They can help hydrate and replenish the skin, promoting a healthy and supple complexion.
Reduced Exposure to Harsh Chemicals
Natural skincare products tend to avoid or limit the use of synthetic chemicals, including parabens, phthalates, sulfates, and artificial fragrances. By choosing natural alternatives, individuals can reduce their exposure to potentially harmful substances.
Holistic Approach
Natural skincare is often associated with a holistic approach to beauty and well-being. It promotes self-care rituals and emphasizes the connection between skincare, mental well-being, and overall health.
Why you should think before investing in “All Natural” products
Even when you use an all-natural skincare product there are no grounds to establish it’s efficacy. Every person has different type of skin which might or may not react to certain external factors. Most importantly, natural ingredients are unstable in nature which might result in some unpleasant outcomes like allergic reactions.Here are some potential side effects of natural skincare products:
Allergic Reactions
Natural skincare products can contain botanical ingredients that may trigger allergic reactions in some individuals. Common allergens include essential oils (e.g., lavender, tea tree), plant extracts (e.g., chamomile, aloe vera), and nuts or nut oils. Allergic reactions can manifest as redness, itching, swelling, rashes, or hives.
Essential Oil Sensitization
Essential oils, commonly used in natural skincare products for their aromatic properties and potential benefits, can cause skin sensitization over time. Prolonged or excessive use of essential oils may lead to allergic reactions or dermatitis. Patch testing and proper dilution are essential when using essential oils.
Contamination and Spoilage
Natural skincare products often have shorter shelf lives compared to products with synthetic preservatives. Without proper preservation or if exposed to moisture, heat, or air, they can become contaminated with bacteria, fungi, or mold, leading to potential skin infections or adverse reactions.
Inconsistent Efficacy & Individual Variations
Natural skincare products may not always deliver the same consistent results as products formulated with synthetic ingredients. The potency and effectiveness of natural ingredients can vary due to factors like seasonal variations, sourcing, and extraction methods. Secondly, each person's skin is unique, and what works for one individual may not work the same for another. While natural skincare products aim to be generally well-tolerated, there can still be variations in how individuals respond to specific ingredients.
Verdict
We live in a world that’s constantly “on-the-go” meaning we have comparatively less time for selfcare as compared to our ancestors. Finding the time to look for natural ingredients & incorporate them into our lifestyle might not seem feasible & it might push you away from skincare altogether. Natural skincare brands aim to bridge this gap but the question of how genuine the products are is a trending concern among skincare enthusiasts. On the contrary the delicate touch of natural ingredients a highly sought after advantage which makes them extremely appealing. From one skincare enthusiast to another, we would recommend sticking to a skincare routine that includes natural ingredients as whole, rather than relying on products that claim to be natural. Secondly, relying on a brand that strikes the balance between science & nature giving you a balanced skincare solution might be the best option. We ourselves take pride in providing a balanced skincare solution that uses high-quality natural ingredients & balances out their instability with science backed chemicals that not only enhance your beauty but also take care of your skin & hair in the long run.
