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We all want natural and glowing-looking skin. But here’s the thing: it doesn’t come without effort. When you spot someone with radiant skin, you better believe they are giving some prime TLC to their face regimen. Adding this ritual to your to-do list might seem like another painstaking effort. But take it from us, over time you will look forward to lavishing yourself with that extra care after a long day, and within no time you will start to see all the positive effects. With that in mind, here are some tips, information and suggestions to get you started on your natural skincare routine.
The term “natural skincare” can mean a lot of things. The “natural” label isn't regulated across the skincare industry, so there can be a lot of debate over what is natural and what isn’t. For example, just because a label says it's “natural” doesn't mean it is made only with natural ingredients. It also doesn’t mean it has been properly inspected, tested or certified in any way.
However, most experts would agree that natural skin care products are ones without synthetic fragrances dyes, paraben's, sulfates, and phthalates. Many of these products also put importance on naturally sourced and botanical ingredients that have therapeutic effects on the skin.
Simply put, natural skincare is better for the environment than its synthetic counterparts. The process of making these synthetic products usually causes great stress to the environment and has dire consequences for the surrounding ecosystem. This is becuase the extraction of ceratin ingredients like aluminum and lead requires mining which produces a great deal of pollution. This massive carbon footprint is enough to have a big impact on our planet earth.
It is shocking to see how many large companies use animals to test their products. One huge humanitarian plus to having a natural skincare routine is that they forego animal testing, and in doing so, don't cause harm to innocent animals. Companies like this take great care in making sure their product is not only naturally sourced, but ethically made which will hopefully make you feel better about the products you are supporting.
The ingredient profile of both natural and synthetic products is wildly different, to the point that they dont even resemble trying to achieve the same effect. Looking over the ingredient list to a synthetic product might seem like reading hieroglyphics at times. You might see items such as Glyceryl Stereate, Dye #4, and Petrolatum. These are just a few of the many ingredients that are normally made in labs and can be detrimental to your body. Natural products, on the other hand, are filled with ingredients that are easier to pronounce and might make you feel more comfortable lathering them onto your skin. Ingredients like argan oil, jojoba oil, lavender, rosemary and so forth are some of the things you might see on a label. These are much more are ingredients to look out for as they are usually packed with vitamins and compounds such as Vitamin C, Resveratrol, alpha-hydroxy-acid, and more which will get your skin looking like its most optimal self.
While all skin types can benefit from a natural skincare routine, it is particularly beneficial for those with sensitive skin. Skin irritations and sensitivities are usually caused by artificial fragrances, alcohol, parabens, and synthetic foaming agents. Making the switch to a natural skincare regimen will allow you to avoid all irritants.
When it comes to the perfect skincare routine, the order in which you apply is crucial. If you put your moisturizer on before washing your face, this could cut back its effectiveness and potentially clog your pores. The best order for your skincare routine is as follows:
Of course, sunscreen should only be used in the morning when you are ready to take on the sun. And it is up to you whether you are using a moisturizer or oil. Oils primarily nourish, protect and moisturize and has a slick feeling, while a creamy moisturizer does a great job in sealing everything that's been placed on your skin prior.
A natural cleanser is at the heart of every great skincare regimen. Washing your face twice a day ensures that your face is cleansed of all dirt, debris, toxins, oil, bacteria and other junk you are exposed to throughout the day. A natural cleanser packaged in a recyclable or reusable container is your best bet. Look for ingredients like coconut oil, olive oil, jojoba oil, grapefruit oil, tea tree oil, and even clay.
A toner might be one of those products you are tempted to skip, but it can make a world of a difference if you apply it correctly. It not only serves as a temporary tightener, but it can minimize the appearance of pores and free your pores from impurities. Natural toner options include witch hazel, clary sage, green tea, tea tree oil, aloe vera, and rose water. If you are really going for the natural route, steer clear from ingredients like fragrances, alcohol and parabens.
A good serum has the potential to brighten your skin, even everything out, and reduce the appearance of dark spots. The three most common serum varieties are retinol, Vitamin C, and hyaluronic acid. The purest form of Vitamin C is L-Asorbic Acid (LAA), and is the most common type of facial serum found. Other ingredients to look out for are Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (SAP), Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate (MAP), and Ascorbyl Palmitate.
Since the skin around the eye area is the thinnest on your face, it needs some extra TLC. Regular serums and moisturizers usually aren't produced to protect this sensitive area, so its imperative to find a product that targets this specified area. Skip the harsh chemicals and look for ingredients like Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Gotu Kola, Grape Seed Extract, Aloe Vera, Caffeine, and Goji Berry.
Keeping your skin properly moisturized and oiled up is imperative for healthy skin. You can decide to use a moisturizer or oil, but it's recommended to use both. And no, just because it’s an oil it doesn't mean it will leave your skin oily and acne infested. Consider finding an oil with Sandalwood, wild rose, apricot, tamanu, prickly pear, and turmeric which will give your skin all the nourishment it needs as well as help battle wrinkles and fine lines. For a moisturizer, look out for Coconut oil, jojoba oil, aloe vera, shea butter, and sunflower oil.
To cap it all off, you must wear sunscreen! We know you've never heard that one before. A natural sunscreen is your best bet towards fighting the damaging effects of sun damage and UV rays. There are two options for sunscreen. You have chemical and mineral sunscreen. Chemical sunscreens use chemicals to create a barrier against the sun's rays - which can effectively be absorbed into your skin. Mineral sunscreens sit on top of the skin and actually reflect light. Mineral sunscreen is absolutely your best bet when you’re concocting your natural skincare regimen. Look for zinc oxide and titanium dioxide when you are shopping ingredients.
