When we hear “natural”, we tend to think that it’s better for us, no matter what it is. Generally, this is true to the extent that simpler is better – we don’t want a laundry list of chemical ingredients that we can’t pronounce going in or on our bodies. However, there are also natural products that are irritants for our skin. There are different benefits for different ingredients so before choosing what goes on your skin, you have to know what you’d like achieve and what you want to combat. Here’s a list of some popular natural additives and what benefits they’re known for, as well as any contra indications.
Aloe Vera is well-known for its healing properties for sunburn and wounds. It has also been used as an antifungal, antiviral, anti-parasitic, and regenerative treatment. Aloe is said to be effective in reducing the appearance of stretch marks - that’s why a lot of women apply this religiously after giving birth.
Green Tea is not only safe to drink daily but also safe to use in your daily skincare routine. The active components of green tea are polyphenols (also called catechins) that benefit the skin due to their antioxidant, anti-carcinogenic and anti-inflammatory properties are likely to slow down the process of aging, repair, or improve the appearance of sun-damaged skin, and reduce topical oxidative stress. It also reduces excess sebum so this is a great ingredient to look out for if you have oily skin.
JOJOBA OIL is popular for good reason. This is versatile, you can use it for your skin, hair, and lips. Its chemical structure closely resembles the sebum that your skin and scalp naturally produce so it’s easily absorbed into the skin and is effective as a moisturizing and balancing agent for the skin’s natural oils, without clogging pores. This will also help heal your acne, sunburn, burns, etc. It also has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties. If you want to rejuvenate and enhance your skin's natural suppleness, definitely look out for this product.
Colloidal Oatmeal: There are different types of oatmeal but colloidal oatmeal has the most benefits for the skin and is the most researched. Studies show that colloidal oatmeal can function as a moisturizer, cleanser, skin soother, and protective anti-inflammatory agent.
It has also been approved to treat skin irritations, such as eczema, poison ivy, poison oak, and insect bites. Soy-based products have also been shown to lighten discoloration
Topical Soy has been shown to lighten discoloration due to melasma and sun damage by inhibiting skin's overproduction of melanin skin pigment so if you’re looking to lighten or improve even skin. Soy-based products are a good alternative to retinoids and hydroquinone.
Turmeric comes from the ginger family. It’s well known in Asian cuisine as well as in medicine and clothing. Turmeric is not only a potent antioxidant, it’s also been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-neoplastic properties.
People with inflammation, acne scarring, or puffiness can benefit from turmeric. It can also help to lighten pigmentation, heal and prevent dry skin, and improve skin elasticity. You should only use this maximum once a day. Be aware that it can stain your skin and everything else yellow! Here are some ways to fix that!
There you have it – which are YOUR favorites? Let us know in the comments!
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