Reasons Why We Can't Help but Fall in Love with Natural Skincare
6 Reasons Why We Can’t Help but Fall in Love with Natural Skin Care
Believe it or not, autumn is almost a wrap and before you know it, we’ll be welcoming winter. And although we could all use a little cool down, the harsh winter weather is often unkind to our sensitive skin. That’s where natural skin care products come in to save the day!
What is natural skin care?
Natural skin care products are kinder, gentler, and just all-around better for your body. They’re made with ingredients that are naturally derived rather than concocted in a lab, and offer your delicate skin a wealth of benefits. If you’re wondering why you should make the switch to natural skin care, you’ll want to continue reading!
1. They nourish your skin.
Organic ingredients have been used throughout history for their healing qualities. There are a number of plants that are rich in the vitamins and antioxidants your skin craves. Ingredients like aloe vera, coconut oil, and witch hazel can give your skin a natural glow with nutrients derived from the earth.
2. They use healthier ingredients.
Most women don’t realize that the products they use on their skin often contain a cocktail of harsh chemicals. In fact, you could be using products to combat an issue with your skin that are actually doing more harm than good. Manufacturers can be cunning about how they package their products to be more enticing to consumers, so be sure to always peep the label. As a general guideline, there are twelve key ingredients you should avoid when it comes to skin care. Experts often refer to these toxic ingredients as the “dirty dozen,” which include:
● Aluminum- Commonly found in antiperspirant deodorants, aluminum is a toxic metal that can interfere with your body’s endocrine system. Aluminum keeps your underarms dry by blocking your precious pores. Some studies have linked the buildup of aluminum in the body to the risk of breast cancer.
● Mineral Oil- Similar to aluminum, mineral oil can clog your pores and prevent harmful toxins from escaping. Often found in lotions, facial creams, and ointments, mineral oil is a by-product of petroleum, and has a similar slippery feel to it.
● DEA, MEA, or TEA- Diethanolamine, monoethanolamine, and triethanolamine are a toxic trio of chemicals that can cause a host of internal issues, and can even hinder fetal brain development in infants. Found in many foaming cleansers, shampoos, and cosmetics, these should be avoided whenever possible.
● DMDM Hydantoin & Urea- Also noted as imidazolidinyl on some ingredient lists, these preservatives release the chemical formaldehyde into the body. This can cause allergic reactions, headaches, joint pain, and more. Look for these ingredients in your shampoo and conditioner, cosmetics, and detergents.
● Parabens- Many moisturizers and deodorants contain parabens like methyl, butyl, ethyl, and propyl. Like others on this list, parabens are used to preserve the shelf life of skin care products. But they can also disrupt your hormones and cause unwanted imbalances.
● PEG Compounds- PEG compounds are used in facial and body cleansers to counteract grease. Unfortunately, it can interfere with your body’s ability to naturally create moisture, resulting in dryness, irritation, and every woman’s worst nightmare- accelerated aging.
● Propylene Glycol & Butylene Glycol- Used to create herbal extracts, these hydrocarbons can weaken the protein found within your skin cells.
● Siloxane- Siloxanes are used to smooth and moisten skin care products, particularly cosmetics. Not only are they harmful to our bodies, but they can also be a danger to some wildlife.
● Sodium Lauryl Sulfate - If you love products that foam and create soap suds, you’ve likely used these dangerous detergents. They can be highly irritating to skin and often cause allergies.
● Artificial Fragrances- Generally speaking, if it’s artificial, it’s usually not the best for your body. This goes for the fragrances that make your favorite skin care products smell sweet.
● Triclosan- A common ingredient in shaving creams, soaps, and deodorants, triclosan is an artificial antibacterial agent. It’s been known to cause issues related to the thyroid, and has even been linked to cancer in some cases.
3. You’ll help support small businesses.
As consumers grow increasingly conscious of the products they purchase, natural skin care startups are continually emerging. Gone are the days of having to spend a fortune on expensive elixirs that promise perfection in a bottle. Instead, you can shop local vendors, or even your nearest Target and find high-quality natural skin care products. And from companies committed to providing skin care that is safe and healthy for consumers. In the process, you’ll be helping small businesses thrive!
4. It’s more friendly for the environment.
Natural skin care products are made from organic, sustainably grown ingredients. These farming techniques are better for the environment. Additionally, many natural skin care companies package their products using recycled materials. The manufacturing of these products also creates less waste for the environment than the use of harmful chemicals.
5. They’re animal friendly & cruelty-free.
If you’re an animal lover like most, you want to buy products that reflect it. Natural skin care brands never perform laboratory testing on animals. When you’re using ingredients that occur naturally, and with no questionable additives, there’s no need to perform this type of testing.
6. Natural skin care products smell incredible!
It’s no secret that Mother Nature offers the sweetest scents. After all, even most artificial smells are inspired by notes of floral, citrus, and herbs. Lavender, rose, mint, and chamomile are just a few of our favorite naturally occurring smells. Not only do they smell wonderful, they also help soothe the skin and can ease inflammation. These fragrances are light and refreshing, and never overpowering.