The Benefits of Natural Beauty and Skincare

By Kenia Aceves

If you’ve strolled the aisles of your local beauty supply store lately, you already know what the biggest trend is in beauty and skincare today: “Natural.” It goes by many names - natural, clean, organic, etc - but regardless of what it’s called on the label, it is most definitely the future of skincare. Maybe you’ve already gone the way of natural and organic in your kitchen and your cooking and you’re deciding if you should go all-in with your skincare routine as well; or maybe you just think it's all a bunch of hippy talk. No matter which camp you belong to, here are some of the biggest reasons to make the switch to natural beauty and skincare products once and for all. Reasons to Switch to Natural Skincare and Beauty Products

What goes on goes In.

You already know: what goes on also goes in. Your skin’s job is to provide a physical barrier to protect from unwanted chemicals, but some 60% of them get absorbed nonetheless- some potentially even making it all the way through to your bloodstream. The chemical additives found in the skincare products we use everyday have the potential to cause serious health issues including skin allergies, hormone disruption and even cancer. Studies have found that the chemicals in these products we use everyday can affect everything from our reproductive, immune and nervous systems to our moods.

No Regulation

These chemicals also have little to no regulation by the FDA, and only very few of them have safety data. There are many chemicals still used in the US that other countries have banned specifically due to safety concerns. But honestly at this point in time, we really don’t know what’s safe and what’s not. There is no way to know for sure because most of these chemicals have never been reviewed by a third party, and that might be the scariest part.

Better for the Environment

Between petroleum derivatives that you wash down the sink, microbeads that invariably end up in the ocean and the endless amounts of plastic packaging that will no doubt make their way to landfills all over the world, chemical-filled products also have a clear and direct negative impact on our environment.

Clear up Skin Sensitivities

All skin types will benefit from making the switch to natural skincare, but those with sensitive skin will probably benefit the most. Ditching all the unwanted extras can heal and clear up skin irritations and inflammation that is commonly caused by artificial fragrances, alcohol, parabens and other ingredients found in traditional skincare products.

They’re Effective

A big misconception about natural beauty and skincare is that they are not as effective as traditional products, and that’s simply not true. On the whole, natural skincare is able to provide a more concentrated product, as they don’t waste any space with chemical fillers, leaving you with nothing but skin-loving ingredients! Good for your Skin Without the harsh additives found in traditional products, natural skincare contains active ingredients that work to not only improve the outward appearance of your skin, but maintain the health of your skin from the inside out. They won’t strip your skin of it’s natural oils, but instead work with your skin to balance and boost that healthy glow. Avoid Animal Cruelty If the natural skincare you decide to use is also cruelty-free (which many, but not all are), you can also feel good about not taking part in cruelty to animals through animal testing.

No Synthetic Fragrances I mentioned this under skin sensitivities but this is a point that bears repeating. Synthetic Fragrances can cause headaches, asthma and even nausea in some people. Worse still, synthetic fragrances make their way into our bodies through both inhalation and absorption through the skin and can potentially cause cancer, reproductive issues and developmental concerns. No thanks!

They Work!

I saved the best for last: natural skincare products work. They are brimming with skin-loving ingredients, hydrating cold-pressed oils, sweet-smelling organic botanicals, and nourishing herbs. They are full of active ingredients that will take care of your skin. Natural skincare is effective and is better for you, for animals, for the planet, and will help keep your skin looking and feeling amazing. Of course, it is always on the consumer to make sure that the “natural” a skincare product is claiming aligns with what you believe natural to mean. If you’re looking for a laidback, easy and carefree health and beauty lifestyle, one that you can trust both works as well as upholds your values and commitment to health- going natural is definitely the way to go.

By Kenia Aceves

Certified Holistic Living Advocate Graduate