Natural vs. chemical cosmetics: stop the preconceived ideas!

19/09/2024

Cosmétiques naturels vs chimiques : halte aux idées reçues !

Astuces & routines beauté

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Isabelle B.

Natural is in vogue, and many people are turning to natural or certified organic cosmetics, thinking that they are better for their skin… and their health.

But should we definitively abandon all synthetic ingredients in the development of care products? Are so-called “natural” cosmetic products really better than their synthetic counterparts?

Natural cosmetics: in search of more responsible products

The quest for healthier and more environmentally friendly beauty is taking on unprecedented proportions in the world of cosmetics. In recent years, natural products have risen to the top of consumer preferences. But why this craze for formulas derived from nature?

There is a marked interest in natural, organic and more responsible products and a growing distrust of products containing synthetic ingredients , often called “chemical ingredients”. However, we should not confuse “origin of ingredients” and “safety of the formula”.

Furthermore, the complexity of certain scientific terms can increase the distrust of consumers concerned about their general health.

Chemical ingredients in cosmetics: a concept to demystify

It's time to clarify what we mean by "chemical ingredient" ! In reality, chemistry is omnipresent in our daily lives. Every ingredient, every substance is inherently chemical , including what is natural. Indeed, every ingredient, whether of natural origin or not, is composed of molecules identified by chemical names. For example, vitamin C corresponds to ascorbic acid.

The term "chemical" is therefore frequently misinterpreted , because it is often associated with substances of synthetic origin which are wrongly perceived as potentially harmful.

Synthetic ingredients are actually laboratory-created ingredients that are perfectly safe and known for their purity, stability, and specific properties. Examples include urea , which is often used for its moisturizing properties .

Natural and organic cosmetics: trends, yes, but not always without danger!

The idea that "natural cosmetics" means "safe" is widespread but remains a preconceived idea . Let's take stock together.

On the one hand, natural ingredients , such as essential oils or plant extracts, come directly from nature without chemical modification.

On the other hand, ingredients of natural origin have been transformed to improve their performance in cosmetics. Although they derive from natural sources , they undergo modifications to optimize their effectiveness , stability or safety .

Whether they are natural or of natural origin , this does not however guarantee that these ingredients are necessarily risk-free . Indeed, they can present variabilities in their composition , their odor or their color . They must be handled with care, otherwise there is a risk of adverse reactions.

This is especially true for essential oils , which are very popular and widely used in cosmetics. Some (cinnamon, peppermint, lemongrass, etc.) can be irritating or contain allergens .

It is better to handle them with care , especially when you start making DIY cosmetics or everyday products!

The effectiveness of active ingredients: the real criterion for choosing cosmetics

The choice between chemical and natural ingredients therefore depends on various factors, including efficacy , safety and personal preferences . Advances in cosmetics show that both types of ingredients can coexist harmoniously , offering products that meet consumer expectations while optimizing benefits for the skin.

TOPICREM recommendations for a healthy and effective beauty routine

Natural or more conventional, a cosmetic product must above all have been rigorously tested in terms of tolerance and effectiveness and comply with current regulations.

Choosing a laboratory recognized for its dermatological expertise also means ensuring the quality of its cosmetics and the effectiveness of the treatment used.

At TOPICREM , the emphasis is on the effectiveness and high tolerance of ingredients, whether natural or synthetic . Our goal is to offer you visible results while respecting the sensitivity of each skin .

To establish your ideal beauty routine , it is important to:

Choose your products according to your needs : select products that are suited to your skin type and specific concerns , rather than relying solely on the “natural” or “chemical” label.
Seek advice from a healthcare professional : consult a dermatologist or specialist if in doubt.

And above all, remember that by reducing the number of cosmetic products , you reduce the risks of unwanted interactions and skin reactions. In other words, the solution may simply be a quality minimalist routine with TOPICREM!