Natural Cosmetics

...keep your skin care active!

Natural cosmetics contain ‘active’ natural ingredients which are beneficial to the skin. The higher the percentage of active ingredients present, the more your skin will benefit.

This month find out what defines natural cosmetics as ‘natural’ - and why sometimes, this can often be misleading.

Natural Cosmetics - is your skin care ‘active’?

The natural ingredients found in natural cosmetics, are considered ‘active ingredients’. Also called ‘performance’ ingredients, they cause physical changes in the skin and have the ability to alter the appearance of the skin. The reason they are so desirable is that they can stimulate cellular activity, or make a worthwhile contribution to your skin’s wellbeing. Qualities such as nourishing, rejuvenating, softening, bonding and hydrating - are all prime examples of the benefits of active natural ingredients. Non-active ingredients on the other hand, do not produce these benefits.

What are considered natural cosmetics?

In Australia if skin care products contain only 1% natural ingredients they can be called ‘natural’ cosmetics. That means, they may hold up to 99% petrochemical or other non-natural ingredients - and yet still have a ‘natural’ label placed on them.

You’d be surprised at some of the common ‘natural cosmetics’ available and the tiny proportions of active natural ingredients they actually contain.

For instance ‘natural’ skin care products found in pharmacies contain on average, a meagre 2-4% active ingredients. ‘Natural’ cosmetics found in department stores generally average just 3-8% active ingredients. And even professional ‘natural’ skin care ranges - on average, only deliver between 4-24% active ingredient content.

There are however natural cosmetics available (such as those found in the Integrity Cosmetics organic skin care range) which contain an astounding 95% - 100% active ingredients.

Given the amazing benefits that active natural ingredients have over non active ones, it makes sense to invest your skin’s health in natural cosmetics products - that have a high ratio of active ingredients present.

...And that’s only got to be a good thing, for keeping truly natural and healthy skin.

Natural Cosmetics – commonly found active ingredients:

Anti-oxidants: These anti-ageing substances come in the form of Vitamins A, C, E, trace elements (zinc, selenium and silicon), plant sources (green tea and grape seed) and algae. They enable the skin to fight free radicals, improve the skin’s contours and repair damage caused by pollution. Creams with an anti-oxidant base are generally recommended for thick or thin skin.

AHAs: These acids are present in citrus fruits, grapes and sugar cane. They have an exfoliating power that eliminates dead cells in the epidermis and smoothes out lines to restore the skin’s glow. They should be used on thick or sun-damaged skin, but should be avoided if your skin is very sensitive to the sun.

Natural Cosmetics and Organic Skin Care

The next time you’re looking to buy or use natural cosmetics, make sure you find products that have the maximum amount of active natural ingredients possible – to increase the positive benefits for your skin. A good place to start is with Australian Certified Organic skin care, because it will contain natural ingredients – with most of them being organic.
Through using natural cosmetics made from certified organic ingredients, you’ll not only keep your skin healthy on the outside – but on the inside too.

organic skin care australia and natural skin products