The front label of your skincare product is not the only thing to look for when buying organic skincare. Instead, you should look for the ingredients list to identify what’s not organic. The label should also state the organization that certified the product as “organic,” which is important to note. Many skincare brands must list the organic certification on the product label. However, some products are not certified. This article discusses which ingredients you should avoid.
Preservative compatibility
While a single natural preservative can be used in an organic skin care product, the compatibility of the preservative with other ingredients is another matter. Preservative systems work within specific pH ranges and have varying solubility. Formulators must consider how long the product will be stored and how long it should last before a new batch must be created. Listed below are the preservatives that can be used safely in an organic skincare product.
While preservatives are necessary to preserve skin care products, it is important to consider whether the chemical preservative will negatively affect the rest of the product. Ideally, the preservative should have an antimicrobial effect while still being able to preserve the product. Depending on the preservative, this could include a natural or synthetic ingredient. It is important to look for ingredients that are compatible with each other so that no side effects are associated with the preservative.
Ingredients to avoid
While many natural and organic ingredients benefit your skin, some can also irritate or even trigger an allergic reaction. These skin-irritating ingredients may be synthetic or natural and can affect all aspects of your skin’s function, from renewal to defense against environmental damage. Fragrances are another common ingredient that should be avoided in skincare products. Despite what many manufacturers claim, they have been linked to skin problems and should be avoided.
It is best to avoid ingredients that are not certified organic by the USDA. They may disrupt hormones or even be carcinogenic. Ingredients that are certified organic should contain USDA-standard ingredients. While this may be a good way to buy products free of chemical and synthetic ingredients, read the label to know which ones you should avoid. Aside from being harmful, ingredients derived from synthetic and natural sources may be more beneficial to your health.
Choosing the right preservative
There are many natural and synthetic preservatives used in cosmetics and skincare products. Many shelf-stable food products, including jelly and peanut butter, use preservatives such as sodium benzoate to prevent the growth of bacteria. Whether or not these ingredients are used in cosmetics and skincare products depends on their effectiveness and the pH of the formulation. Preservatives can be beneficial or harmful, depending on their mode of action and cost, but they are also more affordable.
Common preservatives used in cosmetic products are phenols and ascorbic acid. Vitamin E and castor oil are also common ingredients. In addition, Diatomaceous earth, benzyl alcohol, and vinegar can be preservatives. Natural skincare products should be used within three months of opening. To avoid the formation of bacteria, avoid products with parabens or other synthetic preservatives.