The main difference between natural and conventional beauty products is the origin of their ingredients. Natural means that the ingredients have been extracted from natural sources and are not created synthetically in a lab.
Although we’re not necessarily of the view that all non-natural skincare is bad – we believe that there are many benefits associated with more natural ingredients. Many chemicals are actually safe to use in personal care products at low doses, for instance Parabens. Parabens reduce the growth of harmful bacteria to increase the shelf life of a product which is a positive thing. However, they mimic oestrogen in the blood and are considered unsafe at high levels.
The natural or ‘clean’ beauty industry has become both controversial and confusing since there is very little guidance or regulation around the terms.
Here at ButtaBoxx, we believe that quality, natural ingredients that are kind to the skin and the planet are a win, win. We want you confident when it comes to making informed decisions on what skincare and beauty to choose.
Here is a short summary of natural ingredients that your skin will love!
Rosehip
“Rosehip is a good source of vitamins A, C and E and contains essential fatty acids. Some of its benefits include soothing dry, flaky skin, relieving oxidative stress and restoring the skin barrier. Rosehip also helps to reduce acne, brightens the skin and evens out skin tone.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a skincare essential in our view, especially in the winter season. It is really moisturising and has been shown to help repair the skins barrier, allow it to hold onto moisture and has an inherent anti-microbial due to lauric acid. This makes it a great moisturizing option for those with eczema, because their skin barriers are impaired and they are frequently colonised by staph bacteria that can cause flares and infections. This combats both of these problems. The bad is that it’s fairly comedogenic (meaning it causes blackheads) so avoid applying to your face if you have breakout prone skin.”
Aloe Leaf Extract (Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice) Scientific studies have proven aloe vera to be effective at retaining skin moisture and healing wounds. It’s all down to the plant’s special makeup – it’s positively bursting with amino acids, antioxidants, enzymes, minerals and vitamins that our skin completely adores. Oh, and it’s anti-inflammatory and antibacterial, too.
Found in: Reviver Hydration Mist and Saviour Moisture Mask
Organic Sweet Almond Oil (Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis) Naturally high in Vitamin E, sweet almond oil protects skin cells from environmental pollutants and oxidative stress. It boosts skin’s elasticity and clarity, helping to heal and repair skin. The proteins and amino acids also promote the production of collagen for plumper, more supple skin. For dry skins, this ingredient is a firm favourite as it helps to prevent dehydration by reducing moisture loss.
Bakuchiol
“Bakuchiol is naturally found in the Indian plant psoralea gladulosa, amongst others. It mimics retinol to act on their receptors and stimulates collagen, reduces wrinkles, brightens the skin, decreases dark marks and can help improve acne. In a head-to-head trial against a prescription strength retinoid, it performed similarly in its anti-aging effect. Two important differences and what make this such an intriguing option is that unlike retinols, it does not cause irritation and is pregnancy safe. For this reason, this ingredient is a great option for anyone looking to add a powerful anti-aging product to their regimen.”
Vitamin A
“Vitamin A is found in many fruits (papaya, mango, palm oil) and is synonymous with retinols or retinoids. It’s great for anti-aging through collagen stimulation and wrinkle reduction, but it also helps to brighten skin and even out tone, unclog pores, and reduce acne. This is an ingredient that all dermatologists have as a cornerstone in their anti-aging skincare regimen. Caution should be taken when starting a topical vitamin A derivative, as dryness and irritation can occur. Not everyone will tolerate them due to this.