Natural or chemical: which is better?

I have been reading a lot about using natural skincare products. While most people say that it is beneficial there are others saying there is absolutely no proof that it is better than products with chemicals. What is your take on this?

Natural versus chemical beauty products

Dr Maureen Allem from Skin, Body & Health Renewal says:

“What a great question! Thank you so much for asking this. I think far too many people misunderstand what is meant by “chemical.” Water is a chemical. Every single human being on the planet is made up of a whole host of different chemicals. Essential oils and plant extracts are also chemicals. So to say that you are against the use of products or anything containing “chemicals,” basically means that it is impossible for you to live, because everything around us is made up of a specific chemical structure.

Your vitamins and minerals that you need to survive are chemicals as well. So, to answer your question, there is no such thing as a skincare product that does not contain chemicals, because if it has water in it, it contains a chemical. What you need to look at when choosing any skincare products is: 1) Whether or not the product is indicated for the problem / concerns that you are having on your skin. 2) Are there any clinical trials or evidence on the results that this product can achieve? 3) Is the product sold in reputable clinics with a good track record? If you have a YES to all three those questions, then you are most likely looking at a good quality, safe and effective product.”

Other articles you may be interested in:
Is there a link between cow’s milk and acne?
Are facials really necessary?
Skin and body resolutions for 2014
My oily skin is giving me breakouts. Help!
What are the most important anti-ageing ingredients?

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Pinterest
WhatsApp

7 Responses

  1. I have always wanted to know what “Essential Oils” are. I see most beauty ads use that word.

  2. Nicely put :) And I agree that we’re being bombarded with this idea that something that comes out of a lab is not good for your skin.

  3. Thank you so much for this. There are so many views on this topic one cannot make a decision. The term chemical automatically makes people think something that is harmful. This is most helpful

  4. Wow, thanks for shedding some light. I will never say I don’t want to use chemicals on my skin anymore.

  5. Thank you for the article and advice Dr Maureen Allem. Very interesting and helpful. I didn’t know that water in a product was a chemical, sure learned something very interesting.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

RELATED POSTS
Win a hair care hamper from Insight

Win a hair care hamper from Insight

Products valued at over R1800 could be yours.
MyEarth: Sustainable solutions for your beauty needs

MyEarth: Sustainable solutions for your beauty needs

Discover a range of eco-conscious beauty essentials with MyEarth.

Subscribe to our newsletter

Latest on Instagram