In an era where consumers are increasingly seeking authenticity, transparency, and sustainability in their beauty routines, natural skin creams have taken centre stage. These creams promise not just to enhance your skin but to do so with ingredients that are both effective and eco-conscious. This article delves into some of the most trusted brands, their standout products, the powerful natural ingredients they use, and the benefits these components bring to your skin.
Natural skincare is rooted in the philosophy of working with, not against, your skin. They are (hopefully) free from synthetic additives like parabens, silicones, and artificial fragrances, natural skin creams often rely on plant-based extracts, essential oils, and botanicals. These ingredients not only nourish the skin but also align with eco-friendly values, as they are often sustainably sourced and minimally processed. It should be noted that some silicones are used to treat wounds, so they’re not necessarily bad but don’t fit the role for skin care as opposed to wound care.
According to Sarah Chapman, skin penetration refers to substances entering the stratum corneum—the skin’s outermost layer—without reaching the bloodstream or affecting the body systemically. In contrast, skin absorption involves substances entering the body through the skin, potentially impacting internal systems, though this does not always occur.
The beauty industry has a long history of poisoning people—you only need to look at medieval beauty practices to understand how. Thankfully, now we have standards in place to hopefully stop harmful chemicals from entering our bodies, based on beauty products.
However, there are still many products that contain inorganic substances that could prove harmful. Another note is that some organic, natural components can also have an adverse effect on your health if used on the skin and body. Always check the label and try to use products that are sustainably produced, have clear ingredient information and are produced holistically.
Antioxidants like those in rosehip oil and white tea extract help to neutralise free radicals, preventing premature ageing.
Essential fatty acids (found in rosehip and sesame oils) fortify the skin’s natural barrier, which is essential for maintaining moisture.
Anti-inflammatory agents like chamomile and rosewater calm irritation and are particularly helpful for sensitive or eczema-prone skin.
Hydrators like aloe vera and mango seed butter ensure that moisture is locked into the skin, creating a supple, hydrated look without a greasy feel.
We’ve researched (and tested) some of the products below to help give you a guide on some of the skin creams that tick all the boxes. please be advised that you still must test the creams on a small area of your skin before using to check for an adverse reaction.
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Brand: Dr. Hauschka
Description: This lightweight version of their popular Rose Day Cream is crafted to be easily absorbed and suitable for sensitive skin. It’s designed for daily use and is formulated to maintain skin balance and offer gentle hydration.
Key Ingredients:
Rosa Damascena Flower Extract: Known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, rose extract is also rich in antioxidants, which protect the skin from environmental stressors.
Althaea Officinalis (Marshmallow Root): This ingredient helps in calming irritated skin, providing a layer of moisture, and promoting a smoother texture.
Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed Oil: Rich in vitamins E and B complex, sesame oil nourishes the skin and provides deep hydration without feeling greasy.
Benefits: Balances moisture levels, soothes sensitive skin, and promotes an even texture
Brand: Weleda
Description: Known for its intensely moisturising properties, Weleda Skin Food is a go-to for dry and rough skin. Its rich formulation is ideal for both the face and the body.
Key Ingredients:
Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract: Chamomile is highly anti-inflammatory and calming, ideal for sensitive or irritated skin.
Viola Tricolor Extract (Pansy): This ingredient soothes and strengthens the skin, often used in traditional remedies for skin irritations.
Sunflower Seed Oil: Rich in Vitamin E, sunflower oil is an excellent emollient that nourishes the skin and keeps it soft.
Benefits: Known for deep hydration, this cream also offers a natural glow, making it suitable for anyone with dry or compromised skin barriers.
Brand: Tata Harper
Description: A luxurious cream that targets signs of ageing, Crème Riche is loaded with botanical ingredients for a deeply hydrating experience.
Key Ingredients:
Peptides: These building blocks of proteins help stimulate collagen production, essential for firm, youthful skin.
Mango Seed Butter: High in fatty acids, mango butter offers deep hydration and prevents water loss from the skin.
Sugar Carbohydrates: These provide an immediate plumping effect, making the skin look smoother and more hydrated.
Benefits: This cream addresses wrinkles, fine lines, and dull skin, promoting a healthy glow through natural, highly concentrated ingredients.
Brand: Pai Skincare
Description: Specifically designed for sensitive and eczema-prone skin, this cream helps to reduce redness and irritation while providing a calming effect.
Key Ingredients:
Rosehip Oil: High in essential fatty acids and antioxidants, rosehip oil helps to regenerate skin cells and repair damaged skin.
Chamomile Extract: Provides calming effects, reducing redness and irritation, making it suitable for reactive skin.
Thistle Oil: This lightweight oil is high in omega-6, which balances the skin and provides a matte finish.
Benefits: The blend of ingredients provides a barrier against irritants and is ideal for skin prone to redness or sensitivity
Brand: Herbivore Botanicals
Description: This creamy yet lightweight moisturizer is packed with rosewater and vegan squalane, offering a balance of hydration and a natural, dewy finish.
Key Ingredients:
Rosewater: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, rosewater also helps maintain the skin’s pH balance.
Aloe Vera: Provides soothing hydration and has healing properties for dry, irritated skin.
White Tea Extract: This antioxidant-rich ingredient protects the skin from environmental damage and oxidative stress.
Benefits: Hydrates without clogging pores, and it’s especially beneficial for normal to dry skin types needing a moisture boost without heaviness.
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