Leverage the benefits of Mother Earth for a natural skin glow.
Summary: In this article, we'll guide you through the steps to build an effective natural skin care routine using Ayurvedic principles and organic ingredients.
Although some beauty and skincare products can really get into the depths of creating a glam look and seamless canvas, the downside of it all is the harsh chemicals that could be harmful for the long ride.
And as cliché as this may sound, we tend to long for nature-based ingredients that along with the good looks tend to give our skin an overall healthy look.
So, if you’re in for the long ride (literally), bare with me to soak in all the experienced and well-researched wisdom, which also has an Ayurvedic approach to it, poured into each of this article’s sections, as a natural skincare routine is one worthy of sticking to, and this is being delivered to you from a herbalist, holistic, skincare lens.
Natural skin care involves using products made from ingredients sourced directly from nature, such as plants, herbs, and minerals, without harsh chemical additives. A natural skin care routine emphasizes using ingredients that are minimally processed and as close to their natural state as possible.
Skincare staples referring to a natural approach don’t always define natural skin care product manufacturing. As some may be labeled as “organic”, “natural”, or “clean”, the process is often related to adding or lacking chemicals, harsh additives, or other ingredients. So, what is the meaning of natural skin care?
It's often ironic that many skincare products labeled as "natural" don't meet the standard of being 100% natural unless that’s stated. However, when a product is labeled as "organic," it signifies a higher degree of natural ingredients.
The “clean” label focuses more on the absence of specific chemical ingredients, rather than the sourcing method of ingredients. However, some products can overlap and be both “clean” and “organic”.
For the most of it, natural skin care products are widely known to be derived from different plants, herbs, or minerals such as:
Essential oils such as lavender, tea tree, rosehip or shea butter
Natural oils such as coconut oil, argan, or jojoba oil
Minerals like clay, sea salt, sulfur
Plant extracts such as aloe vera, green tea, chamomile or fruit enzymes
Herbal extracts like calendula, rosemary, witch hazel
Chemical products tend to contain lab-derived ingredients made to address specific skincare concerns such as acne, hyperpigmentation, signs of aging and not only that. This doesn’t necessarily minimize their effectiveness in treating skin conditions, but they also may carry potential risks, including reverse reactions or skin sensitivity.
On the other hand, the natural skin care routine benefits are not limited to only promising a safe and reliable regime for the skin but are also not harmful to the environment:
focus on harnessing the natural properties of plant-based ingredients to nourish and support skin health.
So, the difference between natural skincare products and conventional skincare products that contain synthetic chemicals is the way the ingredients are sourced, the formulation, and the potential benefits or risks.
There are times when less is more, and the holistic approach to skin care is the exact way to do just that.
Even though creating a natural skin care routine may sometimes be very overlooked, catering to each one of the necessary and effective products, for every specific skin type, whether it be acne-prone, oily, sensitive, dry, mixed, combination skin, or with signs of aging, Shankara’s curated step-by-step guide has covered all the benefits of a natural and clean regime, and how can one benefit from it:
Start your natural skin care routine by gently cleansing your face with a natural cleanser suited to your skin type. Look for ingredients like neem, manjistha, and olive leaf, which purify and balance the skin. Massage the cleanser onto your face and neck, then rinse with lukewarm water.
The first step is a must, to proceed with others. Cleansing in the morning and nighttime routine is essential to remove impurities such as makeup, excess oils, or other product residues from the skin, leaving it fresh and clean.
From any natural-based cleanser you choose, you should gently massage the product onto your skin and neck, and then rinse with warm water.
Natural cleansers, unlike the standard, are designed to remove excess oil and other impurities while simultaneously minimizing symptoms of dehydrated skin. A great start when opting out for a natural sourced product is our Shankara Purifying Cleanser, which is rich on natural and beneficial herbal and plant-based ingredients such as:
Neem, which is one of the most powerful purifying herbs
Manjistha, also known as Indian Madder, is a plant that purifies the skin deeply while providing antioxidants and soothing benefits.
Olive Leaf, which has a crucial role in removing excess oils
Our toner is also pH-balanced so there is no need for an extra step of toning.
Exfoliating dead skin once in a while (specifically speaking, preferably 2-3 times a week) is a win for the skin. To remove dead skin cells and unclog pores we use exfoliation, all while helping to improve overall skin texture.
Packed with all types of natural approach ingredients, such as:
Silica (refining and purifying exfoliating crystals),
Turmeric (a plant rich in antioxidants, and brightening, and purifying the skin), and
Aloe Vera gel (deriving from the aloe plant, able to soothe, nourish and protect renewed skin cells).
The Shankara Microcrystal Exfoliation allows the skin to get a healthy glow, being suitable for all skin types. Gently massage the exfoliant onto your face using circular motions, then rinse thoroughly.
Exfoliation or not, moisturizing is what really sets the tone for the rest of the skin journey. Let alone when it’s backed up by organic ingredients. Helping renew the skin, balancing things out, and promising a healthy, radiant complex, the Shankara Balance Moisturizer, which is a lightweight cream formula is the optimal pick for all skin types, helping with smoother skin appearance.
Moisturizing is a step that helps with curing the skin's natural barrier while treating dry skin (this is typically what emollients do). Different moisturizer types address different skin types, such as humectants being suitable for oily skin and occlusives helping with sensitive skin.
One can only skip facial serums at their perils because such products nourish and provide deep moisture to the skin barrier. Serum is the most light-textured cream, and it is advised to be applied before moisturizer. You gently tap the skin area with the product and massage it with gentle pressure, while allowing it to soak in for further nourishment and moisture.
You could pick a facial serum that has an organic ingredient background such as Shankara’s Daily Repair Serum, which is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, all while providing deep hydration and having soothing, rejuvenating properties, thanks to the plant-based derived ingredients, Rose and Algae Aloe. The natural skin care regime step followed by our serum is appropriate for all skin types and concerns.
To maintain a youthful, healthy complexion, and achieve radiant skin around your eyes, an optimal product to choose from the skin care cosmos is eye cream. It is important to identify the specific skin concerns or type you have, so you can cater to a product that does not cause irritation since this area is very delicate.
Shankara's anti-age eye cream helps with skin aging in the area, and is infused with different nutritious ingredients such as roses, cucumber and eye bright. The product also reduces puffiness and darkness.
The holy grail of SPF sun protection applies to this exact routine as well.
Keeping the skin in check, while shielding it from harmful UV radiation, makes sunscreen an irreplaceable skincare product. Though sunscreen might seem necessary only in the summer months, it's essential year-round, including winter.
The term SPF applies to the level of protection an actual sunscreen provides, so the higher, the better.
What makes natural, organic sunscreen distinct from your typical product is the mineral ingredients that do not fail to provide extra protection! Look for ingredients such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, as those happen to enhance the effectiveness of the product.
Sunscreen is safe to be applied every two hours and is completely safe for any skin type, given it comes from an esteemed brand and is backed by thorough research.
Numerous benefits come with creating a natural skin care routine and staying consistent with it.
Whether it is used by teenagers, or those in their 40s, the step-by-step guideline to the ultimate holistic approach to skin care has many health-wise and aesthetic benefits.
Long-Term Benefits - It is not unusual for a chemical product to have faster results, but that is not always interchangeable with the fact of having side effects on the skin. The organic way to skin care is always safer in nourishing the skin, providing the necessary effectiveness for the long run as well.
Good for the Environment - Natural skin care usually involves sustainability-sourced ingredients and eco-friendly manufacturing processes (i.e. packaging), reducing negative environmental impact.
Zero Toxins - The synthetic way of manufacturing skin care products may typically include fragrances and artificial dyes, which can be harmful to the skin and environment. Organic products are known to be bio.
Essential Nutrients - Many natural ingredients are rich in vitamins (look for vitamin A, it happens to boost collagen production), antioxidants (such as the highly beneficial vitamin C), and minerals that nourish the skin, promoting a healthy complexion.
Gentle on the Skin - Chemical-produced skin care products can be harsh on the skin, causing different skin concerns, while natural ingredients are less likely to cause irritation.
Although there is a reward to sticking to a natural skin care routine, to boost the effectiveness of it, it is best to follow with a healthy diet, as recommended by studies and professionals in the field. As this is not a “one-size fits all” approach, everyone’s idea of a healthy diet may sound, look like, and be different, so of course there’s room in the plate for whatever makes you feel better and promotes healthy skin.
The foods you eat play a big part in your skin’s overall health. Foods rich in antioxidants, minerals or vitamins are a good balanced diet rich for someone on their holistic aim to nourish the skin and body.
While a natural skin care regime for glowing skin might sound made up of ingredients easily made and “attainable” natural remedies at home, although naturally sourced, a DIY approach might not work, since the products do not contain preservatives and might go bad quickly.
Plant-based natural products mainly use extracts, oils, and essences from different parts of plants such as leaves, seeds, fruits, or flowers. On the other hand, herb-based skin care is focused on herbs, which are plants specifically known for their healing properties.
The time it takes to see results from a natural approach to creating a skin care routine may vary, depending on skin type, the consistency of application, and the products used. Some may see results of a healthy skin barrier within a few days or weeks. However, for more significant concerns like hyperpigmentation or signs of aging, it may take several weeks to a few months to see visible results.
It is important to identify your specific skin type or skin issues. Although natural ingredients can be beneficial for many of them, some people may experience different allergic reactions to certain natural, herbal extracts or essential oils commonly found in natural skincare products.
It is crucial to pick products carefully, pay attention to ingredient lists, and include patch tests or apply only a thin layer when trying new ones.
A holistic approach to skincare means taking into consideration different influential factors such as stress levels, diet, using natural skin care products, and lifestyle for overall skin care health and wellness.
Following a natural skin care routine that consists of cleansing, moisturizing, and exfoliating when necessary will help you keep a healthy and glowy skin complex.
Creating a natural skin care routine is a journey towards healthier, more radiant skin. By following these steps and choosing products with nourishing, organic ingredients, you can transform your skin care regimen and embrace a holistic approach to beauty. Remember, consistency is key – stick with your natural skin care routine to see the best results. Your skin will thank you!
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