Although many blogs have been written on the topic, a significant question many women ask is, “What natural beauty brands are best?” This question makes it clear women are becoming more conscious about what goes on and in their bodies. There is a widespread sense that the natural beauty products of today are inherently better than the synthetically produced products of the past.
To complicate matters, the word “natural” has no meaning to the FDA. There is not a solid rule preventing a brand from designing a natural looking label and calling it such, as long as it is not misleading. Natural does not mean chemical-free in many cases.
Which skincare products are best?
Most of what we put on our skin is absorbed into our bodies, which makes it essential to choose products with natural ingredients. Be on the look-out for any hidden additives that can do more harm than good. Some products labeled as natural may be paired with additives that could be detrimental to your skin and health. It is crucial to read the ingredient label and not rely on the language or pictures on the front of a bottle that imply it is natural, and thus, safe for your body and skin.
Fewer ingredients do not always mean better. Many organic ingredients require additional additives to provide proper skincare benefits. According to Dr. Diane Madfes, a board-certified dermatologist, applying something to your skin does not necessarily mean it will be absorbed. The skin’s job is to block external objects from penetrating to the inside where it can cause damage.
When putting something on the skin, you need an oil base so it can mix properly with the top layer of our epidermis, Madfes instructed. For example, if you only put rosehip water on the skin, it will not penetrate. Rosehip is an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, so if it is encapsulated oil, and applied it to the skin, you will receive the whole benefit of the ingredient.
Skincare shelf life and expiration dates
Be mindful of the three-month shelf-life of most organic products. You can keep the products in the refrigerator to preserve them for a longer period of time, but once past the expiration date, dispose of them.
Skincare products and allergic reactions
There isn’t a lot of scientific evidence about natural products, which in turn causes misinformation to spread across the Internet. Remember, consult your dermatologist for answers to questions about any product. Trying new products can create negative results for anyone, but if you suffer from allergies, you may have a higher chance of reacting to natural products. Tree pollen, nuts, and stone fruits (fruits with a hard seed or pit, such as apricots, cherries, nectarines, plums, and peaches) are all natural, but they can cause allergic reactions, and it is the same for ingredients in beauty products. Lab created ingredients can be more carefully designed for sensitive skin, but if natural is what you prefer, do a patch test on the inside of the arm before using on your face.
Natural skincare products
A few natural products you can use are essential oils and apple cider vinegar. Oils high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are needed for cell health, are great to use in the winter, as the skin’s barrier breaks down due to the cold. Replacing your shampoo once a week with apple cider vinegar will help get rid of buildup resulting from hair products.
In the end, it is all about experimentation for what works for you and your skin. Pure olive oil can make your skin glow, but if you would rather stick with your natural drugstore brand, you are probably safe with that as well.
West Virginia Skincare & Laser Treatments
At Rejuvenation Laser & Skin Center, we have one goal: to take care of your skin so you can have the confidence you need every day. Contact us to set up an appointment for a free evaluation.