Ingredients used in natural cosmetics
Natural cosmetics are becoming increasingly competitive with synthetic products. This is due to a growing awareness of the benefits of using natural products. These cosmetics contain valuable substances that occur naturally, making them safe. even for the most sensitive skin. Furthermore, they are not tested on animals, and their production is carried out with respect for the natural environment. However, the most important argument for using these types of products is the absence of harmful substances often found in synthetic cosmetics.
Products made with natural cosmetics contain only natural raw materials ( mineral resources and ingredients of plant or animal origin). These raw materials must be obtained through processes such as filtration, extraction, drying, distillation, pressing, grinding, freeze-drying, and sieving. Obtaining natural raw materials using the aforementioned physical methods, which minimally process the material, allows for the preservation of nutritional value, vitamins, and beneficial substances. Ingredients of animal origin may be used in the production of natural products only when their use is not harmful to the health or lives of the animals.
Despite the restrictions, many ingredients are used in natural cosmetics, and more is being learned every day about their properties and benefits. Some of them are:
Shea butter
Shea butter is obtained from the fat extracted from the nuts of the shea tree, native to Africa. It is ideal for dry skin, has powerful regenerative properties, and improves skin's suppleness and softness. It is a great moisturizer and contains vitamins A, D, E, and F.
Rosehip
Rosehip oil is a powerful skin regenerator, thanks to its ability to improve hydration. Surgeons recommend it to enhance the healing process. It's also a great ally against acne and useful for removing traces of blemishes. scars It helps clear up acne. It's also considered a good agent against stretch marks .
Argan Oil
This oil is obtained by pressing the ripe seeds of the argan tree. It has gained much popularity in recent years; with a high percentage of essential fatty acids (80%) and antioxidant tocopherols (vitamin E), it is one of the most sought-after oils for skin, hair, and nail care. and to combat the free radicals responsible for premature aging. It is commonly called 'liquid gold'.
Clay
Clay is frequently used in face masks, natural creams, baths, and more. It is a substance rich in numerous minerals that exert a It has a calming effect, regenerates the skin, and stimulates the circulatory system. It is widely used in rejuvenating treatments, anti-acne treatments, for poor circulation, and for sensitive skin, among other indications.
Rosemary extract
Rosemary acts as a A powerful antioxidant, its extract protects the skin against free radicals, which are responsible for skin aging. The rosemary plant has long been used as a healing remedy due to its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
Chamomile extract
Extracted from chamomile flowers, chamomile extracts are used in cosmetic products for their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, especially suitable for sensitive or irritated skin.
Aloe Vera
It is one of the most valuable and widely used plants in cosmetics due to its numerous benefits for skin and hair , thanks to its high content of amino acids, minerals, vitamins, and enzymes. The gel contained within the plant's leaves is used as a valuable skin remedy. This gel works by creating a protective and refreshing layer. that provides and retains moisture.
Honey from Bees
It is well known for its healing properties, being rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is used as a natural emollient, moisturizing, conditioning, firming, and nourishing the skin, thus promoting healing. It softens and nourishes tissues, providing elasticity and smoothness, and preventing and reducing the formation of wrinkles. It is widely used in the production of facial and body creams, and especially for the eye area.
Vegetable glycerin
This plant-based ingredient is derived from safflower oil. Glycerin is present in almost all cosmetic products because its structure helps maintain the right level of skin hydration by retaining water on the skin's surface. Unlike glycerin obtained from petroleum-derived mineral oils, it does not clog pores. It is an emollient, humectant, and softening agent. It is also widely used in oral care products because it provides smoothness and allows the ingredients to blend and mix properly.
Micronized Bio Rice Powder ( Oryza Sativa )
It is obtained from rice grains ground into a very fine flour with a very smooth texture. This ingredient is very effective at mattifying (neutralizing shine and concealing imperfections) combination and oily skin, absorbing excess sebum and purifying it, leaving it soft and silky. It is widely used in the production of makeup products for its ability to cover imperfections, as well as in deodorants for its drying action.
These are just some of the ingredients used in natural cosmetics. When buying hygiene and body care products, remember how important the ingredients are. Focus on the components rather than the brand; this will help you choose the best product for you.
Ramona Ávila Núñez, PhD