Recently, I decided to revamp my skincare and makeup lineup. For years, I had been using leftover samples from my days as a makeup artist. However, my skin’s needs have evolved, and shopping for new products in a world obsessed with “natural” options has proven to be quite challenging. The issue? The term “natural” varies significantly across brands. It’s trendy to claim you’re going all-natural while tossing the latest skincare must-haves into your cart, but can we really trust that they are “natural”? What does “natural” even entail?
When we say that “natural” skincare and makeup products are unregulated, we highlight the lack of a universal standard. Essentially, the definition is vague, and there are no clear criteria to determine what qualifies as “natural.” I’m not referring to outdated practices like using lead-based lipsticks or mercury-laced skin lighteners. Thankfully, organizations like the Natural Products Association (NPA) have developed guidelines to help clarify what makes a product genuinely “natural.” These guidelines evaluate the ingredients used, their safety, testing practices, and sustainability aspects of both the ingredients and their packaging.
Understanding Natural Ingredients and Ethical Sourcing
What do you think of when you hear the term natural ingredients? You might picture things from nature—like avocados—which are not only delicious but can also be beneficial for your skin. However, it’s essential to remember that your “all-natural” moisturizer likely contains more than just avocado oil and hyaluronic acid. For example, I have an eye cream that claims to consist of 98% natural ingredients but actually contains 25 additional ingredients. As someone who isn’t a chemist, I often wonder if I should avoid products with unpronounceable ingredients, much like I do with food.
Equally important is where these ingredients come from. Responsible sourcing means that ingredients should be cultivated and harvested in ways that don’t harm workers or the environment. This principle extends beyond just the product itself; the packaging should also be eco-friendly, recyclable, or biodegradable to align with the “natural” ethos.
What This Means for Your Skincare Routine
Are you feeling frustrated yet? I certainly am, especially with the ongoing ambiguity surrounding the term “natural.” It’s been a buzzword in the beauty industry for quite some time, and interpretations vary widely. Some brands use “natural” merely as a marketing tactic, while others genuinely adhere to NPA guidelines. If your product sports a third-party label from the NPA or USDA’s certified organic, it’s more likely to be a reliable choice.
Ultimately, when selecting skincare and makeup products, prioritize what works best for your unique skin needs. Is your skin oily or extremely dry? Do you have concerns about aging, lines, or wrinkles? Remember that not all chemicals in skincare are harmful when used appropriately. While seeking to minimize additives and embrace natural ingredients is admirable, it’s crucial to do your research. Unlike maintaining an all-natural diet, where you can see and prepare your food, skincare is far more complex. Before investing in “natural” products, you should be able to answer these questions:
- Do I know the ingredients, and are they safe?
- Are the ingredients ethically sourced?
- Is the product and packaging eco-friendly?
- Has this company received third-party verification?
- Most importantly, does this cater to my skin’s needs?
I, for one, know that my skin craves hydration and some anti-aging benefits. So, excuse me while I indulge in products that suit my needs, including a little “natural” avocado eye cream—because who can resist avocados?
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Summary
The term “natural” in skincare and makeup is largely unregulated, leading to confusion about what truly qualifies as such. The Natural Products Association offers guidelines, but it’s essential for consumers to research product ingredients, sourcing, and packaging. Ultimately, personal skin needs should guide product choices.