While the number of chemicals hidden in everyday products may seem a little overwhelming, fear not ̶ there are plenty of natural brands that offer great alternatives to mainstream skincare. We’ve highlighted some of the best ingredients to get you started:
HAIR
Jojoba Oil
Jojoba is similar to the oil our hair creates naturally, so it’s great for relieving dry scalps and can help to balance oil production. It’s also a humectant, which means it will retain moisture in your hair, leaving it beautifully soft with a natural shine. If you’re prone to dry, frizzy tresses, this is an ingredient for you.
Aloe Vera
pH-balanced aloe vera is a key ingredient for promoting hair growth, and can help to treat scalp problems, such as dandruff. Packed with vitamins, minerals, amino acids and antioxidants, it will rejuvenate and moisture your mane. The easiest way to use it is to add a small amount to your shampoo or conditioner for extra shine.
Coconut Oil
If you have dry hair that’s prone to breaking, coconut oil should be high on your shopping list. It works wonders on its own as a leave-in conditioner, or as a fragrant infusion to natural beauty products. Coconut oil is highly effective at sealing in moisture and actually penetrates the hair shaft, working from the inside out to strengthen fragile and damaged locks.
SKIN
Vitamin E
Both a nutrient and an antioxidant, vitamin E has been used in skincare for many years and is most commonly found in sunscreens, anti-ageing moisturisers and skin brighteners. Not only does it protect us from the sun, it stops the formation of wrinkles by preventing and repairing damage caused by free radicals. Vitamin E is particularly beneficial for those with dry or irritated skin, as it helps to reduce inflammation and prevent transepidermal water loss ̶ thereby increasing the natural moisture content of the skin.
Shea Butter
This wonder ingredient is often considered a superfood for the skin. It’s an incredible moisturiser and provides the extra hydration, nutrients and protection that we need in hot and cold weather. Shea butter also works as a natural sunscreen by shielding the skin from ultraviolet radiation, and its anti-inflammatory properties make it extremely effective at healing and soothing. As if all that wasn’t enough, it’s thought to be one of the best anti-ageing ingredients, as it stimulates the production of collagen and contains vitamins A and E which keep the skin supple.
Rose Water and Rosehip Oil
An ancient homeopathic remedy created by distilling petals in water, rose water is suitable for most skin types thanks to its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and hydrating qualities. If you suffer from skin conditions such as acne and eczema, rose water is a real lifesaver. Another flower-derived component you should be seeking out is rosehip oil. As a natural source of essential fatty acids, it’s extremely nourishing and good for improving tone, texture and pigmentation ̶ as well as treating sunburn. All hail the rose!
