There are a lot of reasons to go down the natural route when it comes to your beauty regime. Not only can products made from natural ingredients be kinder to all skin types, they’re likely to be kinder to the environment too.
Whether you’re going back to basics or simply looking for a ecologically responsible brand to shop with, we can help you conquer the first steps.
For fresher breath
Experts suggest adding 1-2 drops of lemon essential oil to your toothpaste before brushing. Its detoxifying properties will get your pearly whites extra clean, while its qualities as a natural disinfectant can help stave off toothache too.
For calmer skin
Try pure Aloe Vera Gel on sensitive skin. Not only is this secret weapon magic on sunburn (especially if you keep it in the fridge!), it also works well on dry or irritated areas. Research shows a layer of gel applied regular can fade redness and decrease signs of ageing too!
For a cleanser and moisturiser in one
Ditch the pricey products and head for your kitchen cupboard instead. Olive oil works brilliantly to cleanse the skin, and like any natural oil, leaves behind a thin layer to keep you hydrated. The tip is to massage a 10p sized amount into your face and drape over a damp, warm flannel. When the flannel cools, wipe off the excess and go about your business – any residue the oil leaves behind even makes a great, smoothing base for make-up!
For stronger hair
Head back to the essential oils for a quick, fuss-free hair mask. Add 1-2 drops of ylang ylang essential oil (a lush yellow flower found in India, Indonesia and Malaysia to name a few!) to a moisturising plant oil like almond or macadamia. Smooth it on from root to tip, focusing on any ends that need attention. Leave for any length of time from 10 minutes to overnight, then wash as normal. Shine and strength like never before!
For natural exfoliaton
Mix 2 tbsp of porridge oats with 1 tbsp of honey and enough water for a mask like consistency. Use a little to rub over your skin for a gentle, natural way to remove dead skin and boost circulation, or cover your face and leave for 15 minutes for a hydrating mask.
A few tips for buying natural products:
If home remedies aren’t for you then there are plenty of natural skin and haircare products available to buy. Natural products are made using plant-based ingredients, and should steer clear of any synthetic fragrances, phthalates, parabens, silicones or PEGs (that’s Polyethylene Glycol, a synthetic chemical compound, to you and me). Natural products are often, but not always, organic. An organic product is made from ingredients grown without exposure to chemical pesticides, herbicides, fungicides and other growth suppressants. Its production is mindful of the soil from which its ingredients come, keeping it healthy for further production.
To help you identify products like this, you can always keep your eyes open for certifications that show they’re a-ok. Badges from The Soil Association, Organic Food Federation and Eco-cert will all have your back.
