The science (and power) behind the success of botanical skincare.
From ancient tradition to modern-day must-haves, botanical-based remedies are powerfully effective. When formulated using small doses due to potency, these ingredients come together to bring out smooth, flawless skin.
We’re sharing the background behind botanical skincare, how it compares to synthetic choices, and why you might consider switching your products out for all-natural.
What is botanical skincare?
Botanical-based skincare is formulated from plant extracts and oils derived from flowers, herbs, nuts, seeds, roots, and berries.
By using these natural sources and ingredients, you’re able to pack in the powerful nutrients, antioxidants, and vitamins your skin craves for a healthy, glowing look.5
All of those vitamins and nutrients are proven to help improve your skin's:3
- Health
- Texture
- Overall quality
- And support anti-aging
And while it might seem that botanical skincare is a new craze in a world where consumers are searching for the most natural options, the use of plants in medicine is far from a new trend.
The tradition of herbal medicine
Herbal medicine has been used for thousands of years across Europe, India, Japan, China, and various others.1
One, in particular, is the Ayurvedic tradition in India. These remedies focus on the body, mind, and spirit in disease prevention and treatment. The medical system, Ayurveda, has been used since as early as 7000 BCE--relying on plants and minerals for treatments.2
By using botanicals as treatment, the body is able to heal itself in the most natural way possible. And when we harness the power of natural remedies, we embrace the healing properties that come directly from the Earth.
Environmental impact: synthetic vs botanical ingredients
Botanicals are healing and when using products that are derived from a natural source, you can be positive that you’re keeping toxic and potentially harmful chemicals away from your skin.
Synthetic ingredients are commonly found in skincare products but contain chemicals, microbeads, and dyes that are toxic for both you and your environment.
A few ways synthetic skincare ingredients are harming the environment:
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Parabens are rinsed off your skin and sent into the environment. Low levels have been found to kill coral, and have been detected in surface water, fish, and sediments.7
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Synthetic fragrances fail to be properly broken down in wastewater treatment plants and then build up in marine environments.6
- Sulfate is primarily used to make your favorite products foam. But, this is a toxic ingredient that harms aquatic life.7
By choosing natural skincare products that are made from plants, you’re using products that leave both you and the Earth unharmed when washed off and put back into the environment.
Top benefits of botanical skincare
It’s no secret that all-natural products have the ability to heal our skin, making us feel good inside and out. Here’s our take on the top 3 benefits of choosing botanical products:
- Mimic our skin's natural state. It turns out plants and humans have more in common than we think. Some botanicals match our skin's natural layer, creating a more balanced outer layer.
- Promote hydration. Phospholipids and fatty acids found in many botanical ingredients have been found to increase skin hydration for a natural glow.3
- Contain anti-aging properties. Botanicals have been proven to promote collagen production in our skin, leading to tighter skin and firmer elasticity.4
Most importantly, using all-natural products gives us the chance to reconnect with nature and experience the raw healing powers of Earth.
Why Mudita Earth values traditional health remedies
Consumers are turning to all-natural solutions for a variety of reasons. Now more than ever, people are wanting to use products that align with their values, allow them to reconnect with nature, and keep their body safe from harmful toxins.
By combining Indian traditions that use botanicals for healing and up-to-date science, I set out to create highly effective, all-natural, sustainable skincare products that empower. When you feel good knowing you’re choosing safe, natural products for your body--you radiate confidence that carries over to all aspects of your life.
Share with us in the comments
Have you tried botanical skincare? What were the results you found compared to synthetic-based products?
Sources:
1 Shenefelt PD. Herbal Treatment for Dermatologic Disorders. In: Benzie IFF, Wachtel-Galor S, editors. Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects. 2nd edition. Boca Raton (FL): CRC Press/Taylor & Francis; 2011. Chapter 18.
2 Sen S, Chakraborty R. Revival, modernization and integration of Indian traditional herbal medicine in clinical practice: Importance, challenges and future. J Tradit Complement Med. 2016;7(2):234-244.
3 Stallings AF, Lupo MP. Practical uses of botanicals in skin care. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2009;2(1):36-40.
4 Binic I, Lazarevic V, Ljubenovic M, Mojsa J, Sokolovic D. Skin ageing: natural weapons and strategies. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2013;2013:82.
5 The Best Plant Ingredients For Your Skin Concerns. Best Health Magazine. https://www.besthealthmag.ca/article/the-best-plant-ingredients-for-your-skin-concerns/
6 6 Skincare Ingredients Which Are Harming The Environment. Vogue. https://www.vogue.co.uk/article/six-skincare-ingredients-which-are-harming-the-environment
7 What Are Parabens, and Why Don’t They Belong in Cosmetics? EWG. https://www.ewg.org/what-are-parabens