“I’m a big believer in that if you focus on good skincare, you really won’t need a lot of make-up.”
Wise words spoken by Demi Moore, and we definitely agree!
However, if you’re still hanging on to conventional products, then chances are you aren’t going to achieve the skin of your dreams- thanks to the grocery list of toxins lurking in non-organic products. On top of that, conventional brands filled with synthetics and chemicals can actually put your health at risk: Up to 60% of everything you apply to your skin is absorbed into your bloodstream. Scary, we know!
Why not reduce your exposure to toxins this year by implementing an organic skin care routine that will not only help to transform your skin, but also do something wonderful for your health, too? Here are 5 ways you can seamlessly implement an organic skin care routine into your daily life.
1. Do your research
Seems obvious, but how many times have you seen an advertisement on TV, decided that you absolutely need the advertised product, and then proceeded to order it online without even checking for any reviews? Yep, we’ve all been there!
Before grabbing the first organic or natural product you see, be sure to do your research, read reviews and arm yourself with all the knowledge you can to ensure you are making the best decision for your skin. After all- everyone’s skin type and needs are different; you’ll need all the information you can get before deciding if something will be right for you.
2. Learn to read labels like a pro
Reading labels will help you avoid imposter products- the ones that claim to be “paraben free” yet hide their parabens behind fragrances on the label. If you’re shocked, then you aren’t alone, but it’s important to know that you should never take a product at face value. There are currently no regulations in the U.S. (and most other places) on the use of the terms “organic” and “natural” in the beauty and cosmetic industry. Thus, a product can claim to be all natural and organic, but not actually be either of those things. Dig deep and become familiar with good skincare ingredients so that you can sift out the good from the bad like a pro- check out our guide to avoiding the dirty dozen in makeup to start yourself off.
Look for companies that ensure all their products are natural and organic, free from dyes, parabens and all synthetic compounds. Avoid ones with weird sounding names, and ask questions if you aren’t sure. If a company has nothing to hide, they’ll gladly answer your questions.
3. Go cold turkey
While your skin may have built up a tolerance to conventional ingredients, it’s important to stop them all at once when making the switch. We don’t recommend this if you’re weaning off prescription pills (always talk to your doc) but with skin care, say adios to those nasties all at once. You’ll want to immediately start introducing your skin to the good stuff, without any chemicals getting in the way. So take a deep breath, and jump right in!
4. Give the products time to work
Initially, you may not notice any major changes. In fact, don’t be alarmed if your skin gets worse before it gets better! The same way your body goes through a detox period when cutting out processed, unhealthy foods from your life, your skin goes through a purging process too. As the toxins and chemicals you subjected your skin to make their way to the surface, they may manifest as breakouts, redness and even dry, flaky skin. Once they are fully out of your body though, your new nutrient rich skincare will infuse your pores with powerful antioxidants and the magic will truly begin. So be patient- give your skin at least 2-4 weeks to clean itself out.
5. Start simple
Before loading your cabinet with a gazillion products, start simply with a cleanser, toner and a good facial oil or serum. (We personally like the ones from here, here, and here!) You can even upgrade pieces of your makeup routine to cleaner organic and natural makeup. You should treat your skin as a fragile, precious thing as it makes the transition. Once your skin has gone through the detox process and you’re seeing positive results from your three step routine, then introduce it to some more luxurious treatments, masque and enzyme exfoliators.
Get our insider’s guide to the best natural and organic beauty brands in Asia and start treating yo’self right today.
We hope these simple tips will help you to seamlessly transition to an organic skin care routine, and that in 2019, you’ll be absolutely glowing. Trust us- the results will be worth it! And if you’re feeling a bit lost, why not give our Conscious Brands Directory a browse?