Natural Ingredients in Skincare Products

Generally, ingredients derived from natural resources and obtained through physical extraction or simple chemical processing are referred to as “natural ingredients.”

1. Herbal Extracts

Herbal extracts are common natural ingredients in cosmetics. For example, centella asiatica extract has repairing and anti-inflammatory effects. It is rich in triterpenoids, which promote collagen synthesis, speed up skin healing, and reduce inflammation, making it particularly beneficial for acne-prone and sensitive skin.

Chamomile extract is rich in flavonoids, which soothe the skin, reduce redness and itching, and provide antioxidant benefits, helping to relieve skin stress.

2. Natural Oils

Natural oils are moisturizing and nourishing ingredients in skincare products. For example, shea butter is rich in fatty acids and vitamins, which repair dry skin, enhance skin elasticity, and form a moisture-locking barrier on the skin surface.

Coconut oil has excellent penetrative properties, deeply moisturizing the skin. Its natural antibacterial properties help relieve inflammation, making it suitable for dry and sensitive skin.

3. Natural Polysaccharides and Proteins

Natural polysaccharides and proteins are important active ingredients in skincare products. For example, hyaluronic acid has exceptional hydrating properties. It can attract moisture and form a hydrating film on the skin surface, improving dryness and increasing elasticity.

Collagen is a natural protein that fills the gaps between skin cells, improving skin firmness and softness. Elastin is particularly effective in enhancing skin elasticity, suitable for anti-aging skincare needs.

4. Natural Acids

Natural acids are often used for exfoliation and brightening. For example, AHA (alpha-hydroxy acids), derived from fruit extracts, gently removes dead skin cells, improves dullness, and refines skin texture.

BHA (beta-hydroxy acids), derived from willow bark, penetrates pores to dissolve oil, reducing blackheads and acne. Lactic acid is known for its gentle exfoliation, making it suitable for sensitive skin.

5. Natural Minerals

Natural minerals are mainly used for sun protection and oil control. For example, titanium dioxide is a natural mineral sunscreen that reflects UV rays, protecting the skin from photoaging.

Kaolin clay is an absorbent mineral that effectively removes excess oil and impurities, purifies pores, and is often used in skin-cleansing products.

6. Other Natural Active Substances

Other natural active substances also play important roles in cosmetics. For instance, honey is a natural humectant rich in various sugars and minerals that deeply hydrate the skin and improve its barrier function.

Pearl powder is popular for its rich calcium and amino acid content, which not only whitens the skin but also reduces fine lines and dullness. Algae extracts contain a variety of minerals and polysaccharides, providing hydration, antioxidation, and enhanced skin repair. Spirulina, rich in proteins and vitamins, is one of the best ingredients for anti-aging skincare.

Chemical Ingredients in Skincare Products

Some ingredients, such as niacinamide (Vitamin B3), are naturally present in many foods, but extracting them directly from these sources is not economical. Their natural content is low, and the extraction cost is high, making it difficult to meet large-scale, high-purity demands. In such cases, synthetic production becomes a more reasonable choice.

Main Chemical Ingredients Overview

Which Is Safer

Natural ingredients come from nature, retaining the diversity and potential synergistic effects found in their natural state. For example, chamomile extract offers both anti-inflammatory and soothing properties for the skin. In contrast, chemically synthesized ingredients lack these characteristics and primarily serve a single function.

However, despite the many advantages of natural ingredients in cosmetics, there are challenges and considerations to keep in mind. First, natural ingredients may be less stable than synthetic ones and can be easily affected by environmental factors such as temperature and light. Second, the extraction and processing of natural ingredients require strict controls to ensure their quality and safety. Additionally, even natural ingredients can sometimes cause allergic reactions, particularly for individuals with sensitive skin.

Of course, some chemical ingredients (such as high-concentration salicylic acid and paraben preservatives) can also cause irritation or even raise health concerns. Moreover, it is worth noting that certain chemical ingredients, such as silicones, may pose potential environmental risks.

Market Trends: Natural Ingredients Replacing Synthetic Ones

As health and environmental awareness grow, consumers are more inclined to choose cosmetics containing natural ingredients. This trend is driving companies to make changes.

Firstly, companies are focusing on selecting environmentally and socially friendly alternatives that do not compromise product efficacy, safety, or shelf life. Advances in green chemistry and biotechnology have provided solutions, such as replacing petroleum-derived emollients with plant-based oils or squalane from sustainable sources.

Replacing synthetic preservatives with natural ones is another significant shift. Plant extracts and essential oils, such as tea tree, cinnamon, and thyme extracts, are leading this change by offering effective antibacterial protection and enhancing the sensory properties of products.

Stanford Chemicals Company (SCC) has over 16 years of experience in the manufacture and sale of skin care and personal care ingredients. We offer skin care ingredient raw materials to meet a variety of skin care needs.

Reference:

Common Skin Care Ingredients You Need to Know

Acids in Skincare: What Are the Different Uses and Precautions

Hyaluronic Acid vs. Retinol vs. Vitamin C: Which Is Best for Skincare?

The post Natural Ingredients vs. Chemical Ingredients in Skincare Products: Which Is Safer appeared first on Stanford Chemicals.

The skincare industry has witnessed a whirlwind of change, especially with the rise of Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) and their remarkable effects on skin health. It is said that Cleopatra indulged herself in sour milk (lactic acid) baths for radiant skin. This is a historic nod to the potential of AHAs. Recently, these acids have created a buzz in the beauty and cosmetic realm as well. Let’s have a detailed discussion about their properties and benefits.

What are alpha hydroxy acids?

AHAs are a group of naturally occurring acids primarily derived from fruits and milk sugars. These acids are well-known for their ability to exfoliate the skin and promote skin cell turnover. Here’s a glimpse of some of the top Alpha Hydroxy Acids:

Structures of Different AHAs [1]

• Lactic Acid: It is an exceptional exfoliant and potent moisturizer. It often comes from non-dairy sources like plants.
• Glycolic Acid: Glycolic acid is derived from sugar cane and fruits. It immediately softens the skin upon application.
• Citric Acid: The source of citric acid is from citrus fruits. It aids collagen function and is crucial for skin elasticity.
• Malic Acid: It is found in apples. It enhances skin elasticity, so it is ideal for homemade skincare.
• Tartaric Acid: This acid is extracted from grapes and citrus fruits. It enhances skin flexibility and has become a popular choice in AHA skincare.

Related reading: The Secrets of Skincare: Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, and Hyaluronic Acid

How do AHA exfoliants work for the skin?

AHA exfoliants work by loosening and removing dead skin cells from the skin’s surface. They can penetrate the skin’s outermost layer, revitalize the skin, and impart a youthful radiance. Users often report several noticeable benefits:

• Exfoliation: AHAs work by breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells on the outermost layer of the skin (epidermis). This chemical exfoliation helps reveal fresher, smoother, and brighter skin underneath.
• Promotion: AHAs promote skin cell turnover because new skin cells are produced and brought to the skin’s surface. This turnover helps in maintaining healthier-looking skin and improving its texture.
• Collagen Production: Some AHAs, such as glycolic acid, have been found to stimulate collagen production in the skin. Collagen provides structure and firmness to the skin.
• Hydration: AHAs can also improve the skin’s ability to retain moisture. These acids can assist in maintaining a hydrated and smoother skin surface.

Is there any FDA research on the safety of AHAs?

In the short term, excessive doses and improper usage of AHA-containing skincare products may result in adverse reactions. Between 1992 and February 2004, there were 114 reported cases. They detail various dermatologic experiences associated with these products. The most frequently reported reactions included burning sensations (45), rash or dermatitis (35), swelling (29), pigmentary changes (15), and blisters (14). [2] Therefore, it is necessary to follow proper usage guidelines and dosage recommendations when integrating AHAs into skincare regimens.

In the long term, the FDA collaborated with the National Toxicology Program (NTP) to assess the safety of prolonged AHA use. Their study revealed that glycolic acid, an AHA, did not induce the development of cancer cells in mice. Additionally, salicylic acid, another common AHA, safeguarded mice against the effects of light exposure. [2] These findings contribute to a broader understanding of the safety profile associated with extended AHA usage.

How can AHAs be used safely?

When it comes to Alpha Hydroxy Acids, proper usage is crucial. Generally, AHA ingredients range from 1% to 2% for daily products. For more intensive treatments, 5% to 10% AHA concentration should suffice. However, these products should be used judiciously. The frequency should be limited to once a week.

Using products containing AHAs may increase the skin’s sensitivity to the sun. Hence, to safeguard against such potential adverse effects, it’s recommended to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily. You’d better choose a sunscreen with a high SPF. This precautionary measure helps minimize the risk of sun damage and supports overall skin health when using AHAs regularly.

Which ingredients work well with AHAs?

When incorporating AHAs into your skincare routine, it’s essential to be cautious about mixing them with certain active ingredients to prevent adverse reactions. Compatible ingredients include hydrating elements like hyaluronic acid or moisturizing agents such as ceramides and glycerin. Nevertheless, it’s important to avoid combining AHAs with retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, or other exfoliants to prevent skin irritation or over-exfoliation. Always perform a patch test and introduce new products gradually to ensure compatibility and minimize the risk of any adverse reactions.

Related reading: Best Companions of Hyaluronic Acid for Skincare

Conclusion

In a word, AHAs stand out for their exfoliating prowess and offer a multitude of benefits for skin care. When used thoughtfully and in tandem with compatible ingredients, they can unlock a path to healthier, rejuvenated skin. Please use them with professional guidance to harness the transformative potential of AHAs while prioritizing skin safety and wellbeing.

Stanford Chemicals Company (SCC) provides a range of hyaluronic acid powder options. HA products tailored for specific skincare purposes are also available. Please check out our website for detailed information about different grades of HA products.

Reference:

[1] Tang S-C, Yang J-H. Dual Effects of Alpha-Hydroxy Acids on the Skin. Molecules. 2018; 23(4):863. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules23040863

[2] U.S. Food and Drug Administration (2022, November 22). Alpha Hydroxy Acids. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Retrieved November 29, 2023, from https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetic-ingredients/alpha-hydroxy-acids#:~:text=product%20contains%20AHAs%3F-,Why%20are%20AHAs%20used%20in%20some%20cosmetics%3F,improving%20skin%20condition%20in%20general.

The post The Power of Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) in Skincare Products appeared first on Stanford Chemicals.