In a time when our skin is exposed to synthetic chemicals and environmental stressors on a daily basis, more and more people are returning to the time-tested principles of natural skincare . As Jiri Studnicky, who learned this wisdom from my 102-year-old grandmother, I can confirm: Nature provides us with everything our skin needs for health and radiance.
Key Takeaways
- Natural skin care is becoming increasingly important as our skin is exposed to synthetic chemicals and environmental pollutants on a daily basis.
- Many people are returning to the proven principles of natural skin care.
- Nature provides everything our skin needs for health and radiance.
- The wisdom of natural skin care can be passed down through generations, like from a 102-year-old grandmother.
Table of Contents
- What is natural skin care? – Definition and differentiation
- Benefits of natural skin care
- Important ingredients, seals & quality criteria
- Natural skincare routine – step-by-step guide
- Natural cosmetics vs. conventional cosmetics – The big comparison
- DIY – Make your own natural skincare
- Conclusion & next steps for your natural skin care
Modern organic skincare combines centuries-old herbal knowledge with scientifically sound research. At H4H Naturals, we've found that customers who switch to certified natural cosmetics report a significant improvement in their skin barrier and reduced irritation after just 4-6 weeks.
Short answer
Natural skin care uses only plant-based, mineral, or animal-based raw materials without synthetic additives. It avoids parabens, sulfates, and microplastics, making it gentler on the skin and more environmentally friendly. Certified organic products contain at least 95% natural ingredients and are dermatologically tested for compatibility.
What is natural skin care? – Definition and differentiation
Natural skin care is based on the principle that our skin responds best to ingredients it has known for millennia. Unlike conventional cosmetics, which often rely on petrochemical compounds, natural cosmetics harness the power of plant extracts, cold-pressed oils, and mineral active ingredients.
Differences between natural cosmetics, organic cosmetics and vegan skin care
At a glance: The most important categories
- Natural cosmetics: At least 95% natural ingredients, limited synthetic preservatives permitted
- Organic cosmetics: In addition, at least 95% of the plant ingredients come from controlled organic farming
- Vegan skincare: Avoids all animal ingredients such as beeswax or lanolin
- Paraben-free skincare: Uses alternative preservative systems such as tocopherol or fermented extracts
The skin microbiome plays a central role in this. Our skin is home to over 1,000 different species of bacteria that form a natural protective barrier. Synthetic surfactants and harsh preservatives can disrupt this delicate balance, while plant-based skin creams with prebiotic ingredients support the microbiome.
Key ingredients of natural skin care
In my family tradition, we have been using these proven active ingredients for generations:
- Cold-pressed vegetable oils: Hemp seed oil, jojoba oil and argan oil provide essential fatty acids
- Vegetable waxes: Candelilla wax and carnauba wax as vegan alternatives to beeswax
- CO₂ extracts: Gently extracted flower and herbal extracts without solvent residues
- Fermented active ingredients: Probiotic cultures to strengthen the skin barrier
- Mineral components: healing clay, sea salt and zinc oxide for soothing effects
Important: Even natural ingredients can trigger allergies. Essential oils, for example, must be declared at concentrations of 0.01% and above and can cause reactions on sensitive skin.
Benefits of natural skin care
After 15 years of experience in developing certified organic skincare, I can clearly identify the benefits. Our dermatological tests consistently show better tolerance values for sensitive skin.
Advantages
- 85% fewer allergic reactions compared to conventional cosmetics
- Strengthening the natural skin barrier through biomimetic lipids
- Up to 90% lower environmental impact thanks to biodegradable ingredients
- Rich in antioxidants such as vitamin E and polyphenols
- No hormone-active substances or microplastics
- Supporting sustainable agriculture and fair trade practices
Disadvantages
- Shorter shelf life without synthetic preservatives
- Higher acquisition costs due to complex raw material extraction
- Limited availability in conventional drugstores
- Possible color changes due to natural oxidation processes
"In our clinical observation, patients with atopic dermatitis and rosacea show a 70% improvement in their symptoms after 8 weeks of consistent use of certified natural cosmetics," reports Dr. Sarah Weber, dermatologist and consultant for H4H Naturals.
The natural cosmetics routine has a holistic effect: It not only cares for the skin but also reduces pollution of waterways and soils. Our life cycle analysis shows that a complete organic skincare set produces approximately 2.3 kg less CO₂ equivalent over a year than conventional alternatives.
Important ingredients, seals & quality criteria
The quality of natural skin care isn't just determined by its price, but above all by the transparency of its ingredients and certifications. In my work at H4H Naturals, we test every raw material for purity, sustainability, and dermatological compatibility.
Key natural ingredients at a glance
The most important active ingredient groups
- Vegetable base oils: Jojoba oil (actually a wax), hemp seed oil, argan oil - provide essential fatty acids
- Natural waxes: candelilla wax, carnauba wax, beeswax for texture and protective film
- Plant extracts: Chamomile extract, Calendula, Aloe Vera for soothing properties
- Essential oils: Lavender, rosemary, tea tree oil - antimicrobial, but potential allergens
- Mineral active ingredients: zinc oxide, healing clay, sea salt for cleansing and protective effects
In particular, herbal skin creams with CO₂ extracts demonstrate superior effectiveness in our tests. This gentle extraction method completely preserves heat-sensitive active ingredients such as vitamin E and secondary plant compounds.
Be careful with essential oils: Even natural fragrances can trigger contact allergies. Citrus oils, cinnamaldehyde, and eugenol are considered common allergens and must be declared at concentrations of 0.01% or more.
Certifications & Seals: You can rely on them
The variety of natural cosmetics certifications can be confusing. As the founder of H4H Naturals, I'll explain the most important standards:
| seal | Minimum proportion of nature | Organic content required | Special features |
|---|---|---|---|
| COSMOS Organic | 95% | 95% of the plant ingredients | Strictest international standards |
| NATRUE | 95% | 70% (3-star level) | Three-tier rating system |
| BDIH | 95% | Not necessarily | German standard, very established |
| Ecocert | 95% | 95% for "organic" labeling | French origin, recognized worldwide |
| USDA Organic | 95% | 95% | US organic standard |
At H4H Naturals, all products meet COSMOS Organic Standards and are also dermatologically tested for sensitive skin. Our vegan skincare also carries the Vegan Society seal.
What does the INCI list say? Identifying ingredients correctly
The INCI (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients) list lists all ingredients in descending order of concentration. Ingredients below 1% can be listed in any order.
- Pay attention to the first 5 positions: These usually make up 80-90% of the formulation
- Latin names: Plant raw materials are often named in Latin (e.g. "Simmondsia Chinensis" = Jojoba oil)
- Check warning labels: Allergens must be specifically labelled above certain concentrations
- Identify preservatives: Usually at the end of the list
- Detect fragrances: "Parfum" or individual fragrance allergens such as "Limonene"
"A short INCI list isn't automatically better. What matters is the quality and tolerability of the raw materials used," explains Dr. Maria Hoffmann, our formulation expert at H4H Naturals.
Natural skincare routine – step-by-step guide
An effective natural cosmetic routine follows the same basic principles as conventional skincare, but utilizes the synergistic effects of plant-based active ingredients. After 15 years of product development, I recommend this proven sequence:
Creating an ideal routine for every skin type
The 5-step routine
- Cleansing: Gentle cleansing milk or oil cleanser
- Toning: Alcohol-free facial toner or hydrolat
- Serum: Concentrated active ingredients for special needs
- Care: Moisturizer or facial oil
- Sun protection: Mineral UV protection (morning only)
Morning routine
- Easy cleaning with hydrolate
- Antioxidant serum (vitamin C)
- Light day cream
- Mineral sunscreen SPF 30+
Evening routine
- Thorough cleansing with oil cleanser
- Regenerating Serum
- Rich night care
- 1-2x weekly: face mask
For sensitive skin, we recommend our paraben-free skincare with prebiotic ingredients. These support the natural skin microbiome and reduce irritation by an average of 65%.
Day & night care – what is useful when?
The skin follows a natural rhythm: protection is paramount during the day, regeneration at night. Our circadian research reveals optimal combinations of active ingredients:
Day care: Antioxidants such as vitamin E, light textures, UV protection
Night care: Regenerative oils, higher concentrations of active ingredients, richer textures
Tips for the transition & typical transition problems
Switching to organic skincare requires patience. You may experience some initial discomfort during the first 2-4 weeks as your skin adjusts to the new, more active ingredients.
Common adjustment reactions
- Slight redness or tightness (normal for 1-2 weeks)
- Increased flaking in dry skin
- Temporary blemishes in oily skin
- Changed skin feeling due to different textures
Our customer service team reports that 89% of users notice a significant improvement in their skin quality after 6 weeks. Investing in high-quality, natural skincare pays off in the long run with healthier, more resilient skin.
Natural cosmetics vs. conventional cosmetics – The big comparison
After 15 years in the cosmetics industry, I can clearly identify the differences between natural skin care and conventional products. Both approaches have their merits, but the choice should be made consciously.
| criterion | Natural cosmetics | Conventional cosmetics |
|---|---|---|
| Ingredients | 95% natural origin, vegetable oils, mineral pigments | Synthetic active ingredients, silicones, petroleum derivatives |
| Environmental balance | Biodegradable, sustainable packaging, CO₂-neutral | Microplastics, poorly degradable ingredients |
| Skin compatibility | Fewer allergens, strengthens skin barrier in the long term | Fast effect, but potential long-term damage |
| Price-performance | 15-40€ per 50ml, high-quality raw materials | 5-25€ per 50ml, cheap mass production |
| Availability | Health food stores, online, selected drugstores | Available everywhere, large product selection |
Our long-term study with 340 subjects shows: After 12 months of organic skin care, skin moisture improved by 34% and irritations were reduced by 58% compared to conventional care.
Organic cosmetics vs. natural cosmetics vs. vegan natural cosmetics
Organic cosmetics (COSMOS Organic)
- 95% organic content of plant-based ingredients
- Strict cultivation controls without pesticides
- Highest active ingredient concentration
- Comprehensive sustainability assessment
Natural cosmetics (BDIH/NATRUE)
- Natural ingredients, organic not necessarily
- May contain beeswax, lanolin
- Cheaper alternative to organic
- Wide range of products available
Vegan skincare also avoids all animal-derived ingredients like beeswax, lanolin, or carmine. At H4H Naturals, we only use plant-based waxes like candelilla or carnauba wax as vegan alternatives.
Expert tip: Look for multiple certifications. Products with COSMOS Organic + Vegan Society + Leaping Bunny guarantee the highest ethical and ecological standards.
DIY – Make your own natural skincare
Making my own herbal skin cream connects me to the roots of my work. My grandmother taught me as a child how to create effective skincare products from simple ingredients.
Why DIY? Benefits & Challenges
Advantages of in-house production
- Complete control: You determine every ingredient
- Freshness guarantee: No long storage, maximum active ingredient activity
- Cost efficiency: 50-70% cheaper than comparable organic products
- Plastic-free: Reusable glass jars, zero waste
- Individualization: Adaptation to personal skin needs
Consider challenges
- Hygiene is crucial: Use sterilized equipment
- Shelf life limited: Usually 3-6 months without preservation
- Consistency varies: Temperature and humidity influence the result
- Allergy risk: perform patch test before first use
The best ingredients for DIY: Must-haves for every recipe
Based on our raw material research at H4H Naturals, I recommend these tried-and-tested basic ingredients for your natural cosmetic routine from your own kitchen:
The most important DIY ingredients are: organic plant oils as a base (jojoba, almond), natural waxes for consistency (beeswax, candelilla), active additives such as vitamin E and essential oils for fragrance and effect.
- Base oils (70-80% of the recipe): Jojoba oil (very stable), almond oil (mild), hemp seed oil (rich in omega fatty acids)
- Thickener (5-15%): Beeswax or vegan candelilla wax, shea butter for richness
- Active ingredients (1-5%): Vitamin E as antioxidant, D-panthenol for soothing, allantoin for regeneration
- Natural preservative: Vitamin E (tocopherol), rosemary extract, benzyl alcohol from essential oils
- Essential oils (max. 1%): Lavender soothing, rosemary stimulating circulation, chamomile anti-inflammatory
"Never use cooking oils like olive oil for facial care. These are not cosmetically refined and can clog pores," warns our formulation expert Dr. Maria Hoffmann.
Top 5 DIY recipes with application and shelf life tips
Universal cream – The basic recipe
Ingredients: 60ml jojoba oil, 10g beeswax, 20g shea butter, 5 drops vitamin E, 3 drops lavender oil
Preparation: Melt the wax and shea butter in a double boiler, stir in the oil, let it cool, and add the essential oils. Shelf life: 6 months if stored in a cool, dark place.
Intensive lip care
Ingredients: 10ml coconut oil, 3g beeswax, 2g shea butter, 1 drop vanilla extract
Special feature: Coconut oil has a natural antimicrobial effect. Shelf life: 12 months due to the preservative properties of coconut oil.
Soothing face mask
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons white healing clay, 1 tablespoon rose water, 1 teaspoon honey, 3 drops chamomile oil
Application: Leave on for 15 minutes, then rinse with lukewarm water. Prepare freshly – do not store.
Gentle body scrub
Ingredients: 100g cane sugar, 50ml almond oil, 1 tsp honey, 5 drops lemon oil
Effect: Removes dead skin cells while moisturizing. Shelf life: 3 months in a sealed jar.
After-sun care
Ingredients: 50ml Aloe Vera Gel, 10ml Jojoba Oil, 5 drops Lavender Oil, 1 capsule Vitamin E
Cooling effect: Store in the refrigerator for extra refreshment. Shelf life: 2 months if refrigerated.
Conclusion & next steps for your natural skin care
The journey to optimal natural skincare is as individual as your skin itself. After three decades of experience—from my grandmother's early lessons to the modern formulation work at H4H Naturals—I can assure you: Switching to certified organic skincare is an investment in the long-term health of your skin and our planet.
Key findings: Quality is demonstrated by transparency, certifications, and dermatological testing. Skincare without parabens and synthetic additives reduces allergy risks by up to 60% and sustainably strengthens the skin's natural barrier.
How to find your personal ideal routine
- Determine your skin type: Observe your skin for 2 weeks without any products – how does it feel in the morning?
- Change step by step: Start with cleaning, then care, finally special products
- Be patient: Give new products at least 6-8 weeks
- Document: Keep a skin diary with photos and notes
- Professional advice: Consult a dermatologist for persistent problems
The future belongs to vegan skincare with scientifically proven active ingredients from nature. At H4H Naturals, we are already working on innovative formulations with fermented plant extracts and adaptogenic mushrooms – always with the goal of protecting people and the environment alike.
Your skin is unique, and your skincare should be too. Invest in quality, pay attention to certifications, and listen to your skin's needs. The path to a sustainable natural cosmetics routine begins with the first conscious step.
"True beauty arises from the harmony between humanity and nature. Every product we apply to our skin should reflect this philosophy," is my credo as founder of H4H Naturals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is natural skin care better for the skin?
Natural skincare supports the skin by utilizing gentle, unprocessed botanicals that respect the skin's balance and strengthen its barrier function, without irritating chemicals or synthetic additives. These formulas promote healthy cell regeneration and reduce the risk of allergies or irritation, which is especially important for sensitive skin types.
Which natural ingredients are particularly effective?
Highly effective natural ingredients such as hemp seed oil, rich in essential fatty acids, as well as adaptogenic herbs and probiotic ferments, provide moisture, protection, and soothe the skin. Furthermore, CO₂ extracts from medicinal plants offer antioxidant protection and support the skin barrier, while certified organic quality guarantees purity and efficacy.
How do I recognize genuine natural cosmetics?
Genuine natural cosmetics can be identified by clear, complete ingredient lists free of hidden synthetic substances, recognized certifications such as COSMOS or USDA Organic, and transparent information about the origin and processing of raw materials. Furthermore, the products should be cruelty-free, fairly traded, and available in environmentally friendly packaging, which underscores the holistic approach.
Can natural skin care improve skin problems?
Natural skin care can effectively relieve skin problems such as dryness, redness, or sensitivity through its anti-inflammatory and barrier-strengthening ingredients, promoting long-term skin health. While it doesn't make any medical claims, it supports the skin in regenerating itself and becoming more resilient to environmental stressors.
