Natural Skincare & Why It Matters

What Does “Natural Skincare" Mean? 

• Natural Skincare means the products are made with ingredients from nature, such as plants, minerals, or some animal products, rather than synthetic lab creations. To protect the benefits and natural qualities of the ingredients, they are processed minimally. The objective is to be free of harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances. In turn making the results better for you and your skin by creating beneficial formulas, addressing long-term effects, and considering the environment. 

What’s Actually in Many Skincare Products Today & Why It’s an Issue

• In many skincare products today you will find chemicals that are doing more harm than good, add-ins to make the product last longer, and false promises that leave you looking for something more. Some of the ingredients you should watch for are parabens, triclosan, and synthetic fragrances. (Be sure to research each ingredient, some companies have figured out we are learning the words to watch for and they switch them out with others.) Parabens are a group of synthetic chemicals commonly used as preservatives in cosmetics and skincare. They prevent bacterial growth, extending the product’s shelf life. Research has shown that parabens can mimic estrogen in the body, interfering with hormone function. That can lead to imbalances that may affect everything from fertility to the development of certain cancers. Triclosan is an antibacterial chemical additive used in personal care for decades. Studies have linked Triclosan to thyroid dysfunction, antibiotic resistance, hormone disruption, and skin irritation. Synthetic Fragrances might smell nice but it’s not just one chemical it can be mixed into dozens(even hundreds) of undisclosed chemicals. Companies aren’t required to list them because it’s considered a “trade secret”. These fragrances cause skin irritation, allergies, headaches, and hormone disruption.

How to Make the Switch to Natural Skincare

• Start small and gradually replace one product at a time. Do your research on the company, look at each ingredient in the product, and ask questions. Read the ingredients and look beyond the buzzwords like “organic” to guarantee the product contains natural elements. Be cautious of “Fragrance-Free” claims, look closer at how they are fragranced, with either essential oils or look for “no added fragrances”.

Why You Can Trust Alternativ

• At Alternativ, we believe less is more especially when it comes to what we put on our skin, in our homes, and into the world. We believe real change starts with knowing and with refusing to settle for less. You deserve full transparency about what you’re putting on your skin and bringing into your home. We're here to give you the truth, the tools, and the confidence to make cleaner, smarter choices for yourself and your family. Because when you know better, you can demand better and that’s how real change begins.

Get Curious 

1. Start by exploring what is in your current products.

2. Read the ingredient lists. Ask questions. Do any ingredients have long-term, possibly harmful effects?

3. Take your time and replace one product at a time as needed

4. Check out Alternativ for a clean and intentional skincare that you can trust