The Science Behind Natural Skincare: Why Formulations Matter
The Science Behind Natural Skincare: Why Formulations Matter
In recent years, there has been a growing demand for natural skincare products as people become more aware of the potential harmful effects of chemicals and synthetic ingredients commonly found in skincare products. As a result, many consumers are now turning to natural skincare products that claim to be formulated with natural ingredients.
But what exactly makes formulations matter for natural skincare products? In this blog, we will delve into the science behind natural skincare and explore why formulations play a crucial role in the effectiveness and safety of these products.
Understanding Formulations in Natural Skincare
Formulations refer to the carefully curated combination of ingredients in a skincare product. In the case of natural skincare, formulations are even more critical, as they rely solely on natural ingredients derived from plants, minerals, or other natural sources. These ingredients are typically minimally processed to retain their natural properties.
The formulation of a natural skincare product determines its overall performance, efficacy, and safety. Each ingredient in the formulation has a specific purpose, whether it’s to moisturise, nourish, soothe, or protect your skin. The right combination of ingredients in a well-formulated natural skincare product can provide optimal results for various skin concerns, such as dryness, acne, sensitivity, or ageing.
Benefits of Formulations in Natural Skincare
a. Safety: One of the primary reasons why formulations matter in natural skincare is safety. Many conventional skincare products contain ingredients that can be absorbed by the skin and cause irritations or sensitivity over time. On the other hand, natural skincare products formulated with carefully selected natural ingredients are generally considered safe and gentle for all skin types, including sensitive.
b. Efficacy: Formulations also play a crucial role in the efficacy of natural skincare products. Well-formulated natural skincare products can provide the same, if not better, results as conventional skincare products without the use of harsh chemicals. Natural ingredients are often rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and other bioactive compounds that can nourish and protect your skin, promote cell regeneration, and improve overall skin health.
c. Synergy: Formulating natural skincare products is not just about individual ingredients, but also about the synergy among them. A well-designed formulation can enhance the performance of each ingredient, allowing them to work together synergistically for maximum effectiveness. This is known as the “entourage effect,” where the combined action of multiple natural ingredients can produce superior results compared to using them individually.
How to Identify Well-Formulated Natural Skincare Products
With the increasing demand for natural skincare products, it’s important to be discerning when selecting products to ensure their quality and effectiveness. Here are some tips to identify well-formulated natural skincare products:
a. Read the ingredient list: Look for products with a concise and transparent ingredient list that clearly states natural ingredients without any ambiguous or misleading terms. A brand can retail a product with just one natural ingredient and yet state that the product is natural.
b. Look for certifications: Check that the brand meets standards for natural or organic ingredients, cruelty-free, and environmental sustainability.
c. Research the brand: Do some research on your favourite brands. If animal cruelty is one of your biggest points of integrity then any brand which retails in China is by default testing on animals. This is particularly relevant for brands owned by the big corporations. You may not even realise who owns which brands and can often bring surprising results.
d. Packaging matters: Remember that whilst glamorous packaging can look appealing, it is expensive to produce, and the cost of all of that is passed on to you the customer. It is far better to support a brand whose focus is on what is inside the jar rather than bougie boxes.
Like most things in life; it’s what’s inside that matters!
