Let nature give your skin a healthy glow. The increasingly popular natural ingredients listed below are packed with actives and gentle enough for all skin types. Whether you seek to soothe, moisturize, or brighten your skin, our guide will show you how to easily add natural actives to your beauty routine.
Natural ingredients are derived from plants, minerals, or microorganisms. Some come from organic agriculture, and undergo no major chemical transformation. They can come in the the form of an extract, oil, butter, or powder, for use in cosmetic products for the body and face.
Tips: to ensure that your beauty products are truly natural, choose organic brands and look up ingredients on the INCI list.
This alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) is 100% natural. It is derived from fruit sugar and serves as an excellent exfoliator to even out the complexion and restore natural radiance. It smooths out skin texture, boosts hydration, and stimulates collagen and elastin production.
This bouncy molecule is full of water, smoothing and firming your skin while improving its tone and suppleness. Apply it morning and night as a serum, cream, or mask for a long-lasting lifting effect.
Aloe is an edible plant prized for its moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties. It soothes redness and irritation. Its enzymes help the skin heal. Apply on its own or mixed into your cream.
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Shea butter is rich in vitamins A and E and essential fatty acids, providing intense nourishment to stimulate cell renewal. Warm up a pea-sized amount between your palms and massage it onto dry skin.
These natural lipids act as a binding agent, reinforcing the skin barrier to help retain moisture. Easily incorporated into serums and creams, they’re perfect for complexions prone to dryness, acne or eczema.
This duo of essential proteins helps maintain structure and elasticity. Collagen and elastin levels decline as we get older. Formulas enriched with these ingredients can help prevent wrinkles.
Did you know? Staying hydrated is important for healthy skin. For hydration ideas you’ll actually enjoy, see our article Flavoured water: jazz up your water to stay hydrated.
Sourced from underground springs, this mineralized water soothes, hydrates, and calms sensitive skin. Use it as a refreshing mist or rinse for your face.
Natural glycerin is derived from plant fats and is a powerful moisturizer that protects, softens, and repairs dry skin. Try mixing it it into your lotions or using it on its own at the end of your routine.
Essential fatty acids make the skin stronger and more resistant to UV rays, which helps it stay healthy and bright. Seek out EFAs in your oils and creams.
Retinol is a powerful antioxidant and gentle exfoliant derived from vitamin A. It smooths fine lines and wrinkles and stimulates cell renewal. Use it at night, in rotation with other skincare products. Read our article on how to treat wrinkles and rejuvenate your skin.
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Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps even out the complexion, reduce blemishes, and prevent signs of aging. We recommend applying it in the morning as a serum for a healthy glow.
Antioxidant Vitamin E protects your skin, stimulates collagen synthesis, and helps skin heal. For extra-soothing healing, combine it with aloe vera.
The flavonoids and enzymes in aloe, calendula, and chamomile help calm redness and irritation. Apply these natural products as a gel, toner, or serum for instant relief. They’re excellent for soothing summer sunburns.
For moisturizing properties, look for hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and shea butter. For firming, look for retinol and collagen. To help strengthen and protect your skin, look for omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E.
Green tea and green clay are excellent natural astringents. The tannins in green tea tighten the pores, while green clay absorbs excess sebum for a fresh complexion.
Castor oil is rich in ricinoleic acid, which stimulates microcirculation in the scalp to help hair grow. Try it as a weekly oil treatment to strengthen your hair.
First, figure out what your skin type is, then decide what you want to target: moisturizing, anti-aging, repair, or protection. Always check the INCI list, and choose clearly labelled formulas with fewer ingredients. Seek out local brands and certifications for reliable natural products.
Read more about how to use vitamins for healthy skin in our article: Vitamins: benefits to your skincare routine.
Although they are gentle, some active ingredients, such as glycolic acid and retinol, can cause irritation. Always do a patch test on your wrist 24 hours before using a product on your face. Follow the recommended dosage, and always use sunscreen after treating your skin with an AHA. Watch out for photosensitivity.
Carefully read ingredient lists and select natural products wisely, and you can have your own personalized skincare routine to treat your skin beautifully. Your choices can make a difference and will certainly have a positive impact on your health. Start here for natural beauty and well-being!
Last updated on July 30, 2025
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