Many skincare consumers and enthusiasts believe that natural is always better. However, not everything natural is good or healthy for your skin. There are "bad" and "good" synthetic ingredients and there are also "bad" and "good" natural ingredients. We highlight some of those "good" natural ingredients that you can look for the next time you search for a holy grail product for your skin.
- Green tea is packed with anti-oxidants and when applied topically, research shows that this powerful ingredient contains strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties to help slow the signs of aging. Because it is rich in polyphenols, green tea helps eliminate free radicals, prevent oxidative stress, protect skin from UVA and UVB radiation damage and reduce the number of sunburned cells. Many scientific studies have shown that a main component of green tea, the polyphenol EGCG, has anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties that can help to prevent certain skin cancers.
- Licorice extract - Like green tea, licorice extract contains anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce redness and rosacea. Licorice extract has been known to help lighten dark circles under your eyes.
- Oats is one of the few natural ingredients approved by the Food and Drug Administration to treat eczema, dry skin, insect bites, poison ivy, and other skin conditions. Oats maintaining the skin barrier with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant chemicals.
- Soy helps brighten the skin, decrease redness, boost collagen production and improve skin tone. Products with soy can be a safe alternative to hydroquinone and retinoids, which can cause dryness and redness.