At the core of every successful skincare regimen is a set of quality products. Yet, very few of us stop to think about what ingredients go into those regimens. The substances used in your skincare formulas all interact with your cells in different ways, guiding them in the proper direction to receive your desired results. Because of this, what you’re putting on your skin is just as important as the brand or that company’s manufacturing process, and it’s vital that these materials are healthy. This article reviews some of the best natural ingredients for skin care to look out for on the shelves and what they each contribute to your skincare regimen.

Beta Carotene

Beta carotene is a substance commonly found in yellow or red fruits and vegetables such as carrots, sweet potatoes, and tomatoes. It’s one of the body’s essential nutrients and is often converted into vitamin A for most major internal functions. It also has a series of effects when applied to the skin. In this form, beta carotene acts as an antioxidant that protects the skin from the effects of oxidative stress and aging. Because of this, it’s a popular material in anti-aging and replenishing creams.

Green Tea Extract

Green tea extract acts as a strong anti-oxidant—especially against damage caused by the sun’s UV rays. The minerals in green tea create a strong barrier around the skin’s cells. This helps block some sunlight and prevents the harmful UV energy from penetrating deeper into your skin. It’s important to note, however, that this ingredient doesn’t provide complete protection. So, you should never consider it a replacement for sunscreen in your daily regimen. Green tea extract also has anti-inflammatory properties that work to improve the skin repair process following damage.

Aloe Vera

Known best for its soothing capabilities, the aloe vera plant also naturally has a spot on this list. These succulents contain a plethora of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. For this reason, the gel they produce works great for treating everything from sunburn to enflamed acne. Additionally, aloe vera is very bioactive and has advanced healing capabilities when used directly on the skin. As such, it’s the perfect thing to use whenever you’re looking to heal and deeply moisturize your complexion.

Charcoal

If you have an oiler skin type and suffer from frequent acne breakouts, ingredients that absorb impurities are vital in treating these blemishes. Charcoal—specifically activated charcoal—attracts any nearby dirt, oil, or chemicals and traps them so they can be easily removed. This variant of carbon uses oxygen molecules to expand the mineral and make it extremely porous. As a result, each gram of charcoal can absorb several times its own weight in harmful bacteria and oily substances. Therefore, it makes a great ingredient in acne-fighting cleansers and treatments.

Vitamin C

Another of the best natural ingredients for skin care is the classic vitamin C. Found in all citrus fruits, this material is crucial for a series of bodily functions. One of its most noted benefits is the treatment of sagging or dull-looking skin. Similar to beta carotene or green tea extract, vitamin C fights free radical damage by forming a protective layer over vulnerable skin cells. It also contributes to the healing process by decreasing inflammation and regulating the production of oil. Vitamin C is often used in skin-lightening products to reduce the signs of hyperpigmentation. As such, it’s an all-around wonderful substance to have in your skincare routine.

Shea Butter

Extracted from the nuts of shea trees, shea butter is a thick, creamy substance that’s packed full of fatty acids. These acids help both attract and lock in moisture—which is very useful for maintaining the hydration of your skin. It’s this ability that makes shea butter a primary ingredient in most heavier moisturizers and treatments designed to eliminate itchiness or dryness. Shea butter can have an anti-inflammatory effect as well that soothes conditions such as eczema or general skin sensitivity.

Vitamin E Oil

For simultaneous moisture and protection, it’s often best to use formulas that include vitamin E oil. This material is a compilation of fat-soluble vitamins that trap hydration within its molecules while simultaneously limiting cell exposure to free-radials. These properties make vitamin E oil particularly effective on sensitive areas of skin, such as under the eyes, because they reduce the time of application. This is why it’s a very popular option in eye creams and sensitive skin ointments.

Soy

On the other hand, if you’re looking for something to help regenerate some of your skin’s elasticity, you should really consider formulas with soy. Soybeans contain fatty acids and antioxidants, but, in this case, they’re better suited for the production of other prominent skin materials. Soy is very helpful at increasing the rate that your body creates collagen—the glue-like substance that keeps your skin youthful and resilient. As such, creams that include this ingredient are a great start to your path to a younger, healthier complexion.

Witch Hazel

If you have stubborn acne breakouts, get a product that uses witch hazel. This mixture contains several different plants and roots from across the country, each with its own blend of soothing properties. Witch hazel reduces the inflammation of most red and painful rashes or bumps such as acne, bug bites, and blisters. It also works to shrink your pores and make it more difficult for some of these conditions to develop in the future. Witch hazel can offer some hydration as well, though it’s still recommended that you use a designated moisturizer alongside it for maximum effect.

For natural skin beauty products that yield results, reach out to Flawless Beauty and Skin. Each of our formulas contains clean and eco-friendly materials that have been shown to work with your skin’s biological makeup. This way, you’re well on your way to obtaining beautiful skin the healthy way. We even offer a series of nutritional supplements so these same ingredients can affect your skin’s health from the inside out. To learn more about our extensive range of products, visit our website or give us a call.