Naturally Beautiful, Inside and Out

Products for natural skin care usually don’t include any artificial or chemical substances. They might also contain choices that are better for the environment.

One of the cosmetics markets with the greatest growth is natural skin care.

There are several benefits to using natural skin care products over conventional ones, such as eliminating synthetic ingredients that may be dangerous. It may also be a greener choice.

Here’s how to begin using natural skin care products on your own.

Beauty is subjective, whether it’s a tried-and-true skin care routine, the frequency of hair washing, or the cosmetics you’re interested in trying.

For advice on anything from how different products are applied to which sheet mask is ideal for you, we rely on a wide range of writers, educators, and other specialists.

You can be sure that our team has done extensive research on a product or brand if you see a store link to it since we only recommend things that we actually enjoy. 

What does natural skin care entail?

The phrase “natural skin care” has several definitions. The industry as a whole does not regulate the “natural” term. This implies that any business is free to define “natural” in its own unique way.

“What is deemed ‘natural’ and what isn’t is a topic of much discussion in the industry,” says Dana Murray, a certified aesthetician and writer of beauty blogs.

It might be challenging to gauge the efficacy and strength of natural compounds because they are frequently erratic in their composition. Furthermore, certain natural substances, such as essential oils, can irritate skin, according to her. 

Advantages of using natural skin care products

A 2015 clinical study on the use of plant extracts in skin care found that botanical products can be an abundant source of:

• vitamins
• antioxidants
• vital lubricants
• hydrocolloids
• proteins
• Terpenoids
• bioactive substances

The authors of the aforementioned review speculate that plant extracts could be a cheap and safe substitute for synthetics. Here’s a brief overview of how these could help with various skin types:

For skin that is greasy

Without the use of pricy skin care products or prescription medications, an all-natural skin care program for oily skin may help reduce oiliness.

There are numerous ways to treat oily skin at home and with natural skin care products.

For skin that is parched

Nothing is more annoying than scratchy skin brought on by dryness.

Dry skin can be aggravated by heat, hot showers, dry climates, and harsh soaps. These factors can all be lessened with a natural skin care regimen.

For skin that is mixed

Combination skin can be difficult to take care of. Finding a natural skin care regimen that lessens shine and dry areas is still achievable, though.

Fragrances and other harsh substances can aggravate both dry and oily skin types. For people with combination skin, using natural skin care products may be beneficial.

For skin prone to acne

Among the many advantages of an all-natural acne treatment regimen could be financial savings from avoiding pricey acne medications. Additionally, it can aid in avoiding negative side effects like irritation, redness, and dryness.

You can satisfy your skin care requirements by using natural therapies and at-home cures for acne.

For delicate skin

By eliminating products with irritating components, a natural skin care regimen for sensitive skin may aid in the reconstruction of a healthy skin barrier.

A 2018 study looked at the possibility of skin irritation from fragrance-containing items. Long-wearing products, such as moisturizers, may increase the risk of skin problems. 

The pigment that naturally gives your skin and hair its color, melanin, is found in greater quantities in those with darker skin tones. A few illnesses that may negatively impact skin that has greater pigmentation include:

• Acne 
• Skin cancer can cause keloidalis nuchae
•  which appears as bumps on the back of the head or neck,  
• keloids, which are elevated scars on the skin.
• vitiligo, which results in a pigment loss in the skin and is more noticeable in darker skin tones

Although natural skin care products could help with acne, it’s crucial to visit a dermatologist for a proper evaluation of other skin disorders, like vitiligo or cancer. 

Terms to know

You’re really on your own to find out which things are “natural,” depending on what that means to you, in the absence of clear definitions. Fortunately, this essay is useful.

When choosing a new product, keep the following points in mind.

From what source is the product derived?

To begin with, ask yourself this question.

Stated differently, what constitutes it and whence does it originate? Does it come from a natural source, such as marine life, minerals, plants, or animals? Is it sourced from petrochemicals instead? 

• Naturally-occurring: The raw, unprocessed ingredients in these items are used. Natural ingredients include things like crushed flowers and raw honey.
• Nature-identical: Chemically comparable to substances found in nature, the ingredients in nature-identical products are created in a laboratory. Sorbic acid is one instance. Sorbic acid was first made from rowan berries, but it is now frequently used as a natural component.
• On the extreme end of the range, synthetic refers to substances that were produced and processed in a laboratory. Parabens, a prevalent preservative used in cosmetics and skin care products, are one example of this.

How is it handled?

Ingredients are not necessarily processed naturally just because they are naturally derived.

Chemical or physical processing can be applied to ingredients.

• When something is physically processed, its molecular structure or content remain unchanged.
• Chemical processing results in modifications to the molecular structure or content.

Proceed as directed, omitting the sun protection step.

2. Cream for the eyes

The most delicate and prone to wrinkles on your face is the skin surrounding your eyes.

While ordinary moisturizers and eye creams may have the same components, eye creams usually have fewer irritating compounds.

Give your skin a longer, gentle massage with your creams. This promotes the formation of collagen and strengthens the facial muscles. Moreover, you can use your ring finger to apply eye lotions; this weaker finger may assist prevent unintentional tears on this naturally delicate skin area.

3. Moisturizer at night

Your skin can be effectively supported during the regeneration process by using a night cream.

Extra actions

For some extra pampering, consider adding a couple of items once or twice a week in addition to your normal regimen.

Mask of detoxification

A mild mask that extracts pollutants could be used a few times a week. 

Green tea leaves or charcoal masks can help exfoliate pollutants and revitalize your skin, respectively.

Serum Bakuchiol

One can assist elegant aging and rejuvenation with retinol serum. Over time, it may aid in lessening the appearance of wrinkles.

Retinol, however, is a synthetic substance that might have negative consequences like rashes and stinging.

According to 2018 research, the plant-based substitute bakuchiol seems to have comparable skin-related effects as retinol. It has the effect of lessening wrinkle appearance and hyperpigmentation.

Homemade natural skin care products

Mask of clarifying oatmeal

Using ground oats and apple cider vinegar, this mask eliminates buildup and excess oil while balancing the pH of the skin.

Components

• Three tablespoons of ground oats
• Apple cider, 1/4 teaspoon
• 1/4 teaspoon of lemon juice
• A half-tsp brown sugar 

Guidelines

1. Make a smooth paste by combining the apple cider and ground oats.
2. When combined, mix in the brown sugar and lemon juice.
3. After cleansing the skin, leave on for five to ten minutes.
4. Move your hand in a circular motion.
5. Use warm water to rinse it off.

Raw, unprocessed oils and butters are examples of naturally derived products that have undergone physical processing.

 These are treated using techniques including filtration and cold pressing.

Castor wax is one example of an ingredient that is naturally derived yet has undergone chemical processing.

 This vegetable wax is made from castor beans. It is made using a process known as hydrogenation, which involves adding hydrogen to pure castor oil.

Recognize your labels

Products categorized as “natural” might have a variety of certifications and marketing terms attached to them. While some are unregulated, others are.

Organic businesses are able to obtain organic certification for their goods.

In order to specify that every ingredient in their products comes from organic sources, they can additionally mark their products as organic. This indicates that even if the product may not be certified, each ingredient is approved as organic. 

Verdant

Sustainability and the environment are discussed under this uncontrolled phrase.

The goal of producing “green” products is often to minimize their influence on the environment.

A green product might, for instance, have raw materials that are gathered in a way that benefits the environment rather than depletes it. Due to its lack of regulation, this phrase could have varied meanings for various brands. 

clean

This unregulated word refers to goods that usually emphasize their nontoxicity.

Because there is no federal law pertaining to this phrase, different brands may interpret it differently.

vegetarian

There are no animal byproducts in the production of these goods.

Free from cruelty 

The phrase “cruelty-free” denotes the absence of animal testing in the final product. Remember, though, that certain ingredients might still undergo animal testing.

It’s also crucial to remember that while cruelty-free products are nearly always vegan, vegan products are not always cruelty-free. An illustration would be a beeswax-containing organic lip balm.

As of right now, there is no legislation pertaining to these phrases, thus brands can use them without being certified. However, a number of organizations certify vegan and cruelty-free products if manufacturers wish to make sure of it. 

Equitable trade

This regulated description is all about sourcing, making sure that ingredients are obtained in a way that respects the environment, people, and the world.

The best natural skincare regimen for people in their 30s and older

When your hormone levels start to drop in your 30s, your body produces less collagen and elastin.

But each person has a unique type of skin. What feels well on one individual might not be suitable for another.

For most people, the following procedure may be effective as a general practice. 

1. Cleaning in the morning

The first thing that should happen each morning and evening is this. Use circular motions to gently apply a cleanser to your face. After rinsing, pat dry.

The greatest option is to look for a face cleanser that is packed with vitamins that are good for the skin, such A, B2, B12, and E.

2. Using exfoliants

You shouldn’t use exfoliants every day. Instead, use them once or three times a week to gently exfoliate dead skin cells. Exfoliants should be used similarly to cleanser, for 30 seconds at a time, and then rinsed with warm water.

Just skip this step on the days when you aren’t exfoliating.

3. Harmony

One of the most often neglected skin care procedures is toner. A toner can assist your skin become more balanced, clear of pollutants, and tighten its pores.

Toners that clarify your skin tone can help restore equilibrium.

Peach extract and grape seed extract are two examples of natural instances.

Furthermore, you might want to consult a doctor regarding vitamin E, ginseng powder, and other antioxidants that some experts think could be useful in treating melasma, a form of skin discoloration.

4. Adding moisture

One important component to look for in moisturizers is ceramides. They support and preserve the skin’s natural barrier function.

Look specifically for phytoceramides, or ceramides originating from plants. These naturally occurring, waxy lipids aid in retaining moisture in the skin.

According to a 2021 assessment by Trusted Source, jojoba oil is another fantastic moisturizing ingredient that promotes regeneration and shields against environmental stressors because of its possible anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antioxidant qualities.

In essence, serums are advanced moisturizers. They penetrate deep into the dermal layers to release active chemicals. Apply a few drops of serum on your forehead, nose, chin, and cheeks. 

5. Sunscreen

Everybody six months of age and older is advised to use SPF every day Trusted Source.

Mineral sunscreens could be a better option for the environment than chemical sunscreens. Dermatologists also often advise patients with sensitive skin. Although mineral sunscreens can leave a white cast on the skin, which is more noticeable on darker skin tones, tinted sunscreens might be beneficial. 

Expert advice: Start applying creams with the lightest possible fluids. For instance, moisturizer, serum, and SPF.

At night

1. Continue the morning routine.

Tea leaves as a facial toner

This natural toner also aids in the fight against acne. 

Components

• One teaspoon peppermint tea leaves and four teaspoons white tea leaves

• Boil half a cup of distilled water
• Two lavender oil droplets

Guidelines

• In a French press, combine all the ingredients.
• Give the mixture ten minutes to steep.
• Transfer into a glass jar to chill.
• Mix the mixture with the aloe vera until a 4-ounce spray container is filled.
• Once your face is clean, spritz it on and keep it in the fridge. 

sugar exfoliation

This DIY exfoliator removes dead skin cells and nourishes the skin at the same time.

Components

• Half a cup of brown sugar
• Three tablespoons of honey
• 2 tablespoons your preferred oil

Guidelines

In a small bowl, combine honey and brown sugar; whisk to produce a thick paste.

• Mix well after adding the oil.
• Apply the paste onto your spotless skin.
• Apply for five to ten minutes.
• Use warm water to rinse.

Security

The American Academy of Dermatology Association (ADA) states that there is a chance that natural goods, such vitamins and herbal cures, will interfere with cancer treatments like radiation and chemotherapy.

This is particularly true for St. John’s wort, vitamin C, and vitamin A. If taken while receiving cancer therapy, they may have serious negative effects. Thus, it’s advisable to consult a physician before beginning a new regimen. The American Dental Association further emphasizes that a product’s naturalness does not guarantee its safety. 

Remember that one significant disadvantage of a totally natural product could be a lower shelf life because it doesn’t contain any preservatives. The type of Trusted Source, the product’s container (bottle versus jar), and whether or not it is kept at room temperature all affect how long a product lasts.

It could be time to throw out any natural skin care products that start to smell or change in texture or color.

Sunscreen is yet another exclusion. The majority have three-year shelf lives Trusted Source, but be sure the bottle has an expiration date. 

Conclusion

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all strategy for going au naturel with your skin care regimen if that’s your goal.

Under the “natural” banner, brands are free to name their cosmetics whatever they choose, so be careful to do your homework.

Prior to using a new product extensively, always conduct a patch test and remember to read the labeling.