Natural creams: let's dispel some doubts!

Natural creams are skin care products made using ingredients of natural origin, without the use of synthetic chemicals, artificial colors or fragrances. These products aim to exploit the benefits of natural raw materials such as vegetable oils, butters, plant and flower extracts, and vitamins.

Natural creams may include ingredients such as:

• Vegetable oils : such as extra virgin olive oil, coconut oil, argan oil, jojoba oil, which offer hydration and nourishment to the skin.
• Butters : such as cocoa butter or shea butter, known for their emollient and nourishing properties.
• Plant extracts : such as aloe vera, chamomile, or rosehip extract, which may have soothing, anti-inflammatory, or antioxidant effects.
• Vitamins : Such as Vitamin E, which is a natural antioxidant that helps protect the skin from environmental damage.

Many people choose them to reduce the risk of irritation or allergic reactions, as natural ingredients tend to be gentler on the skin.

Some common ingredients in conventional creams and cosmetics can cause allergic reactions or skin irritation. Sensitivity to these ingredients can vary from person to person, but here is a list of ingredients that are known to be potentially problematic:

1. Artificial Perfumes and Fragrances : Often included to make products more pleasant to the nose, but can cause allergies or irritation in many people.
2. Synthetic Colorants : Artificial colorants, such as tartrazine or other azo dyes, can cause allergic reactions or irritation.
3. Parabens : Used as preservatives to extend product shelf life, parabens may be associated with allergic reactions and long-term health concerns.
4. SLS (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate) and SLES (Sodium Laureth Sulfate) : These surfactants are common in cleansing products and can cause skin dryness or irritation.
5. Denatured Alcohol : Some types of alcohol can be irritating and dry out the skin, especially in high concentrations.
6. Silicones : Ingredients like dimethicone or cyclomethicone are used to give a smooth texture but can clog pores and cause irritation in some people.
7. Mineral Oils : Petroleum-derived oils, such as paraffin, can cause irritation and allergies in some people, and are considered less natural than vegetable oils.
8. Retinoids : Ingredients like retinol may cause skin dryness, irritation, or sensitivity, especially at the beginning of treatment.
9. Preservatives : Some preservatives such as phenoxyethanol or benzoates can trigger allergic reactions in some people.
10. Some Esters and Emulsifiers : Ingredients used to improve product consistency and stability may be irritating to some people.

If you have sensitive skin or have had allergic reactions to cosmetic products, it is a good idea to do a patch test before using a new product on your entire face or body. If you have a severe reaction, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist.

To recommend a specific product to you, it would be helpful to know your skin type and specific needs. However, I can offer some general recommendations for creams that tend to be well tolerated and appreciated for their natural and gentle formulation:

1. Creams for Sensitive Skin :
• Cream with simple and soothing ingredients, ideal for very sensitive skin.
2. Natural and Organic Creams :
• A very nourishing and hydrating cream with natural ingredients such as extra virgin olive oil and plant extracts. It is excellent for dry and rough skin.
3. Universal Moisturizing Creams :

When choosing a cream, try to opt for products with few ingredients and without harsh chemicals. If you have specific needs or allergies, always check the ingredient label and, if necessary, consult a dermatologist.

I can recommend you try our moisturizers based on extra virgin olive oil and honey: they are free from parabens, silicones or artificial colorants and nickel tested.