Before we can appreciate the benefits of natural skin care, let us first learn some basic facts about the skin. The skin, known ubiquitously for centuries as the largest organ in the body, functions as a barrier to protect our internal organs from the environment. It also functions, among other things, as an “elimination system” of the body. It pushes out toxins from the body in the form of perspiration. The skin also has absorbing properties called dermal absorption. It is the transport of chemicals from the outer layer of the skin into the bloodstream. These properties of the skin, excretion and absorption, are very vital in our skin health.
A regular skin cycle takes about four weeks; that is, from the time a new cell is developed in the deepest layer of the epidermis (about 1/3 of an inch down) to the rising of the cell to the surface as it matures until it is shed. A person sheds 0.03 to 0.09 gram of skin every hour.
Why do you need to know all that? It is to understand how the skin behaves during regeneration. This means that when you shift from using a chemically-compounded product to a natural product, it will take at least three skin cycles to see a difference.
What benefits do you get from a natural skin care product?
- Prevent skin irritation
The use of chemically-formulated products can cause irritation and allergic reaction to people with sensitive skin, like increased sensitivity, clogged pores resulting in acne and contact dermatitis. When these injuries happen to the skin, its function as a barrier against pollutants and foreign substances is compromised and may result in more serious skin conditions.
Switching to a naturally formulated product may relieve or reduce these skin conditions. Major allergens are Quaternium 15, Formaldehyde, Lanolin and Methylchloroisothiazolinone.
- No artificial scent
Organic and naturally formulated skin care products will often smell like the natural ingredients used – essential oils and plant extracts.
- No side effects
Skin can be a major entry point of contaminants based on a study published in the American Journal of Public Health. This information should warn us against using products with harmful ingredients. Always check labels and avoid products with these ingredients:
- Parabens such as Butyl, Methyl, Propyl and Ethyl
- Polyethylene Glycol or PEG
- Phthalates
- Aluminum
- Diethanolamine or DEA, Monoethanolamine or MEA, and Triethanolamine or TEA
- Propylene Glycol and Butylene Glycol
- Siloxanes
- DMDM Hydantoin & Urea (Imidazolidinyl)
- Mineral oil
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) & Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)
- Synthetic Fragrances
- Triclosan
- Environmentally friendly
Formulations for these products are developed with care to adhere to quality standards. The manufacturers are obligated to ensure that their ingredients come from organically grown and processed raw materials. As the demand and use of natural and organic products increase, the better for organic farmers. This system creates a sustainable cycle which benefits the environment.
Healthy glowing skin is everyone’s dream. Turn this dream into a reality by shifting to natural skin care products and allow it to work its promise. The skin follows a natural course so let nature take its course. Your role is to diligently follow the skin care regimen. No short cuts. Remember, all good things come to those who wait. Besides, Rome was not built in a day.