Self-Care Products Inspired by Nature

Clean beauty has amassed millions of devotees across the globe. Perfectly positioned to lead the eco-revolution in skincare, the market is expected to grow to $14 billion by 2028, according to Forbes.

Now that self-care has entered the conversation, users of these beauty products have become more mindful of the brands they purchase. 

Consumers need to know that companies are committed to putting their mouths where their marketing spend is. Are their “miracle ingredients” good for the environment, and where do they source them?

How do shoppers navigate the complex world of best sellers, skin and fragrance to make a positive change and increase their buying power?

Using Mother Nature as a blueprint, this article aims to discuss natural ingredients found in self-care products.

Honey

Honey has been praised for its antioxidant properties for years. A study published in Nature collected honey samples from more than 90 places around the world with the explicit aim of measuring antioxidant activity.

The results showed that the antioxidant activity of honey has a direct relationship with the plant and origin of honey. Keeping this claim in mind, the superiority of Mãnuka honey remains uncontended.

Fructose, glucose and some amino acids found in honey are known for their anti-inflammatory and hydration properties. Often the main ingredient in clean beauty products, honey extract can help minimize acne-causing bacteria. 

Self-care products that contain honey are body wash, facial masks and body butter.

Beeswax

Honey isn’t the only wonder ingredient obtained from bees. Cera alba, the main compound in beeswax, can be found in honeycomb.

Soft and malleable when exposed to heat, the substance is mostly known for its moisturizing and healing properties. 

For those who suffer from sensitive skin and eczema, beeswax is often the answer. Citing a review by the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, Only My Health noted that beeswax acts as an occlusive, humectant and emollient.

When in its hardened form, beeswax can be found in lip balm and soy candles. Be sure to look out for 100% organic and pesticide-free. Bee Inspired, for example, says their soy wax candles are herbicide-free with a 30-hour burn time.

Aloe Vera

Often found in after-suncare products, aloe vera has been shown to reduce the effects of sunburn such as inflammation, swelling and redness.

The American Academy of Dermatology Association recommends aloe vera in its tips to relieve sunburn. According to the organization, to help the discomfort of sunburn, you should apply a moisturizer that contains aloe vera to soothe the skin.

Aloe vera gel contains glucomannan which activates fibroblast growth factor receptors. These receptors aid cell repair and collagen production.

According to dermatologist Dr Mona Foad, the natural plant-based ingredient has long been incorporated into beauty products. Antioxidants such as vitamins A, C and E contain anti-aging properties to defend against free radical damage. 

To include aloe vera in your self-care routine, WebMD suggests taking the plant in its juice form to help lower cholesterol and ease the effects of heartburn.

Green Tea

Self-care can come in many forms. It can be taking a few moments to yourself with simple mindful breathing exercises or a decadent bubble bath.

Some people have even turned it into a ritual involving Japanese green tea as a stress reliever. 

Extracted from the Camellia sinensis plant, green tea contains polyphenols which are rich in antioxidants. The anti-inflammatory benefits are known to decrease blood sugar levels and gut inflammation.

For his study on green tea, Dr Richard Bruno wanted to see how green tea affected gut health. He found that green tea extract - catechins - can decrease blood sugar and increase gut health. 

Dr Bruno cautioned that you would only reap the health benefits if you drank five cups of green tea. His advice was to start on decaf and work your way up.

Mental Health and Self-Care

Beauty and self-care are not mutually exclusive. Taking care of your body and mind translates into feeling great on the outside and in.

While chatting with USA Today, psychologist Dr Shaakira Haywood Stewart said a few simple steps could help put you in a positive frame of mind.

Journaling increases our self-awareness and emotional intelligence, she explained. As a stress-relief exercise, family therapist Mario Palacios suggested listening to a podcast while going for a walk.

Eucalyptus mist is also a great way of starting the day right. The invigorating fragrance makes one feel refreshed and ready to take on the day.

Whether you’re starting your self-care journey or wanting to take some more “me time”, remember to practice being kinder to yourself. Permit yourself to be selfish. Always set boundaries. 

And when it comes to skincare, search and shop for products you love. Don't just take store ads at face value. Read reviews. Play around with creating self-care elements where you reap the greatest rewards.