Recently, I decided to revamp my skincare and makeup collection. For years, I had been using leftover samples from my earlier days as a makeup artist. However, my skin’s requirements have evolved, and navigating the world of “natural” products has become quite confusing. Why? Because the term “natural” can vary significantly among brands. While it’s appealing to say you’re embracing all-natural products while adding the latest trending item to your cart, the question remains: What does “natural” actually mean?
When we refer to “natural” skincare and makeup products as unregulated, it indicates that there is no clear, universal standard. Essentially, we lack a definitive understanding of what qualifies as “natural.” This isn’t about outdated products like lead-based lipsticks or the questionable makeup remedies of our ancestors. Thankfully, we have the Natural Products Association (NPA), which has established guidelines to determine whether a product can genuinely be labeled as natural. These guidelines assess the ingredients, their safety, the testing practices used, and the sustainability of both the ingredients and their packaging.
Defining ‘Natural’ Ingredients and Ethical Sourcing
What do you think of when you hear about natural ingredients? Most likely, you imagine elements derived from nature, such as avocados. They are delightful on toast and in smoothies, but how suitable are they for your skin? Avocado oil can be beneficial, but it’s essential to consider that it’s not the sole ingredient in your “all-natural” avocado moisturizer. For instance, I have an eye cream that claims to contain 98% natural ingredients. At first glance, it seems like it only has avocado oil and hyaluronic acid, but it actually includes 25 additional components. Not being a chemist, I can’t pronounce all these ingredients. It raises the question: Should we hold the same scrutiny for skincare as we do for our food?
Equally important is the sourcing of these ingredients. Responsibly sourced ingredients are crucial for maintaining a truly natural label. This means they are cultivated and harvested in ways that don’t harm the workers or the environment. Furthermore, the product’s packaging should ideally be eco-friendly, recyclable, or biodegradable.
Implications for Your Skincare Routine
Feeling frustrated yet? I certainly am, especially since I have to use quotation marks around the term “natural.” This is intentional, as the definition of “natural” varies from one person to another. The beauty industry has made “natural” a buzzword, with companies using it as a marketing strategy. While some brands adhere to the NPA’s guidelines, others may not. According to the NPA, products with third-party labels from them or USDA-certified organic seals are more likely to be genuinely natural.
Ultimately, choosing the right skincare and makeup products for your routine should be about what works best for your skin. Is your skin oily, or does it need hydration? Do you have concerns about lines and wrinkles? Keep in mind that not all chemicals in skincare (natural or not) are harmful when used appropriately. While striving for fewer additives and more natural ingredients is commendable, it requires some research. Unlike preparing an all-natural meal, skincare involves understanding products that are often complex.
Before investing in “natural” products, ask yourself:
- Do I know the ingredients, and are they safe?
- Are they ethically sourced?
- Is the product and its packaging eco-friendly?
- Does it have third-party approval?
- Most importantly, does it cater to my skin’s needs?
I acknowledge that my skin craves hydration and some anti-aging benefits. So, excuse me while I indulge in products that suit my skin, including a bit of that avocado eye cream because, let’s be honest, who doesn’t love avocado? For more insights, check out this other blog post.
Summary
The term “natural” in skincare and makeup is not regulated, leading to confusion about its meaning. The Natural Products Association provides a framework for what constitutes natural ingredients, but brands often interpret this term differently. It’s essential to research products, focusing on ingredient safety, ethical sourcing, and sustainability, to determine what works best for your skin.
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