Healing vs. Harmful: Are organic skincare products really better for your skin?
Going organic might not necessarily be the key to effectiveness in the realm of beauty.
Do you consider products labelled “100% organic” to be far more superior when pitted against products that contain non-organic ingredients? You might be falling for a myth. The fact is, the words ‘organic’ or ‘natural’ are not at all synonymous with ‘effective’ or ‘safe’. There are plenty of organic, plant-based substances out there that could cause your skin some serious damage.
Organic = free from chemicals? Think again!
Products marketed as ‘organic’ are usually assumed to mean they are non-chemical. This is completely untrue. Whether you’re looking at an ingredient from a natural source or a synthetic source, it still has a formula that is chemical in nature. And, of course, we all should be aware that no two individual’s skin types are the same – your best friend who recommended that 99.9% organic lemon-based brightening peel might not have skin that’s sensitive to citrus oils, but you might.
In what way are organic products good for us, then?
It’s a safe bet to assume organic products are formulated with ingredients that are grown without the use of herbicides, pesticides and synthetic fertilisers. In that way, you can be sure that you aren’t slathering yourself with these harsh toxins, making you less likely to develop skin irritations, breakouts or other negative reactions.
The best way to ensure you are using the right products for your skin is to look closely at the labels. If you’ve got sensitive skin, you are better off checking for ingredients that might cause a problem – and whether they are organic or otherwise, it’s best to avoid them if you know they could cause trouble.
Angela Goh
Photos: Getty Images
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Superstar Skin: Miranda Kerr’s beauty secrets to a clear complexion
