Empowering beauty choices: Learn about the sustainable benefits of natural cosmetics
Modern cosmetics and care products use a variety of ingredients. At the same time, sales leaders are increasingly becoming products containing natural ingredients. The packaging of such cosmetics is usually marked with “nature”, “100% Organic”, or “bio” – meaning “natural cosmetics” or “organic”. What are these products used for and how are they different from regular cosmetics? Let’s do the math in order.
Benefits of natural cosmetics
Unlike traditional cosmetics that contain silicones, parabens, and other synthetic additives, products containing natural ingredients are good for the skin, making it healthier. Traditional cosmetics often simply cover blemishes and create the “look” of healthy skin.
Natural cosmetics have many other advantages, namely:
- Gentle on the skin, does not disturb the acid-base balance, and maintains lipid protective barrier;
- Eco-cosmetics are safe and contain no harmful substances;
- Suitable for use by any age group, with a series of products specially designed for children’s care;
- Non-addictive;
- Natural cosmetics do not harm the environment and are not tested on animals.
Unlike synthetic ingredients, natural ingredients trigger the natural process of skin regeneration. As a result, the skin recovers and eliminates various problems on its own.
Beneficial properties of natural ingredients in cosmetics
Cosmetics containing natural ingredients are quite expensive products since their production costs are much higher. Some Natural cosmetic products use plant extracts, fruit acids, raw materials of animal origin, mineral ingredients, natural oils, and natural or natural-like preservatives – citric acid, sorbic acid, or salicylic acid. Let’s take a closer look at these components.
Extracts and extracts from plants
Cosmetic preparations containing plant extracts and extracts are very effective. Because plant ingredients contain special substances with rapid penetration capabilities. The ingredients that ensure the efficacy of natural cosmetics are obtained from medicinal plants – chamomile, calendula, aloe vera, burdock, celandine, nettle, etc. To extract useful components, manufacturers use special natural solutions.
Essential oils
They are valuable ingredients in natural cosmetics and have unique properties. Argan oil, for example, is a rich source of vitamin E, which is perfect for regenerating and rejuvenating the skin. Lemongrass essential oil will help normalize fat balance and tone the skin. Essential oils used in natural cosmetics are extracted from plants such as fennel, lavender, geranium, bergamot, and pine trees.
Vegetable oils
Modern beauty uses a variety of oils, each with its unique properties. Oils are produced by cold pressing from fruit seeds, seeds, grains, nut kernels, and fruits.
Thanks to the presence of vegetable oils in the composition of care products, the skin retains moisture, does not dry out, and is protected from harsh environmental influences. Traditionally, natural cosmetics use grape seed oil, olive oil, shea butter, almond oil, jojoba oil, wheat germ oil, etc.
Animal Ingredients
Cosmetics containing natural ingredients of animal origin are very popular. For example, an anti-aging cream containing snail mucus extract, and a winter care cream containing mink oil. Cosmetic preparations containing honey, propolis, milk (goat milk, camel milk, etc.), caviar, quail eggs, royal jelly, and other ingredients have proven to be excellent.
Natural preservatives
Any cosmetic product contains preservatives. Natural cosmetics are no exception. To fight pathogenic bacteria and extend the shelf life of products, manufacturers use preservatives of natural origin, such as:
- Wax, honey, propolis. These substances have antiseptic properties.
- Botanical alcohol – ethanol extracted from wheat, fruits, berries, potatoes, sugar cane.
- Botanical Extracts – Yarrow, Elecampane, Ginseng, St. John’s Wort, Tea, Eucalyptus and others.
- Essential oils – cedarwood oil, tea tree oil, geranium oil, etc.
- Organic acids – glycolic acid, citric acid, stearic acid, salicylic acid, palmitic acid.
In conclusion
Natural ingredients in cosmetics have a strong influence on the processes that occur in the skin. When choosing such products, personal characteristics must be taken into account, such as whether you are allergic to any ingredient (honey, milk, etc.). Taking into account the needs of the skin, preference is given to preparations containing phytosterols (present in oils), plant extracts, collagen, peptides, and minerals. For this, consult a beautician.
But you shouldn’t expect instant results from eco-cosmetics. The effect of such cosmetics is based on cumulative effect. Through the systematic use of cosmetics with natural ingredients, skin is gradually restored to its natural state. Results will be noticeable after a few weeks, and for some, after a few months of use.