Natural Skincare: Should We Be Paying More Attention to the Ingredients We Put on Our Skin?

Natural Skincare: Should We Be Paying More Attention to the Ingredients We Put on Our Skin?

Discover why ingredient awareness matters, what the headlines about chemicals in cosmetics really mean, and how botanical skincare can become part of a more thoughtful daily routine.

We spend time choosing the food we eat, the products we use around our homes and the ingredients we put into our bodies. But how often do we stop to think about the ingredients in our everyday skincare?

From facial cleansers and moisturisers to body lotions and makeup, many of us use several cosmetic products every single day. Yet the ingredient lists on the back of those bottles can sometimes feel confusing, especially when news reports raise questions about chemical exposure and long-term health.

Recent reports about certain chemicals, including so-called forever chemicals, have encouraged consumers to look more closely at what goes into their beauty products.

At Glow Daily, we believe skincare should be about more than appearance. It should also be about understanding your ingredients, caring for your skin and making informed choices that feel right for you.

What has the news revealed about chemicals in cosmetics?

In January 2023, a BBC investigation highlighted the presence of PFAS — per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances — in some cosmetics. These synthetic chemicals are used for properties such as water resistance and durability. Some PFAS are extremely persistent in the environment, which is why they are often called “forever chemicals”.

Certain PFAS have been associated with serious health concerns, including some cancers. However, it is important to understand that the risks vary between individual substances and depend on factors such as exposure. The presence of a particular ingredient does not automatically mean that using a cosmetic product will cause harm.

Cancer Research UK also explains that cosmetics sold in the UK are subject to safety regulations and that the evidence does not support a general claim that cosmetics cause cancer.

So, rather than feeling frightened by every headline, we can use these discussions as an opportunity to become more informed consumers.

What does natural skincare mean?

Natural skincare uses ingredients derived from natural sources, such as plants, seeds and botanical oils. Depending on the formulation, these ingredients can help soften, moisturise and nourish the skin.

Some examples include:

  • Jojoba oil: Helps soften the skin and reduce moisture loss.

  • Rosehip oil: Provides fatty acids that support the skin's moisture barrier.

  • Shea butter: Helps moisturise dry skin and leave it feeling smoother.

  • Squalane: An emollient that helps soften skin and reduce moisture loss.

  • Vitamin E: An antioxidant commonly used to help protect oils in cosmetic formulations from oxidation.

At Glow Daily, we appreciate the simplicity and versatility of botanical ingredients. We believe that understanding what a product contains is an important part of choosing skincare with confidence.

Natural skincare is not about chasing perfection. It is about finding products that suit your skin and making your daily routine feel a little more considered.

Is natural skincare safer than conventional skincare?

This is an important question, and the honest answer is that natural does not automatically mean safer, just as synthetic does not automatically mean harmful.

Some natural ingredients, including essential oils and botanical extracts, can irritate sensitive skin or cause allergic reactions. Meanwhile, many synthetic ingredients have well-established safety profiles when used correctly.

What matters is the complete formulation, the concentration of each ingredient, the way the product is used and whether it has been properly assessed for safety.

In the UK, cosmetic products must comply with applicable safety requirements. Choosing a product from a responsible brand that takes formulation, testing and labelling seriously is important, regardless of whether its ingredients are natural or synthetic.

For us, natural skincare is a preference rooted in botanical ingredients, thoughtful formulation and a more conscious approach to everyday self-care — not a promise that nature is risk-free.

Why botanical oils can be wonderful for dry and mature skin

As skin changes with age, it can become drier, feel less supple and need more support with moisture. A gentle skincare routine can help keep it feeling comfortable, soft and nourished.

Botanical oils and plant-derived emollients can play a useful role in that routine.

Rosehip oil is valued for its fatty acid content and its ability to condition the skin.

Jojoba oil helps soften the skin and is often appreciated in moisturising formulations.

Shea butter provides rich emollient care, making it a useful ingredient in body creams and hand creams for dry skin.

Squalane offers lightweight moisturisation without necessarily leaving the skin feeling heavy or greasy.

The best ingredient depends on your individual skin and the formulation in which it is used. There is no single oil that works perfectly for everyone, but understanding what different ingredients do can help you choose products more confidently.

Five ways to make more informed skincare choices

You do not need to throw away your entire skincare collection or buy dozens of new products to make a change. Start with a few simple habits.

1. Read the ingredient list.

Get familiar with the ingredients in the products you use regularly. If something is unfamiliar, look it up using reliable sources rather than relying on alarming social media posts.

2. Choose products for your skin's needs.

If your skin feels dry or tight, look for moisturising ingredients such as glycerin, squalane, suitable botanical oils and shea butter.

3. Keep your routine simple.

You do not necessarily need ten different products. A gentle cleanser, moisturiser and suitable sun protection can provide a practical foundation for many skincare routines.

4. Remember that natural ingredients can still cause reactions.

Introduce new products gradually and patch test according to the product instructions. If you have particularly sensitive skin or known allergies, check the ingredients carefully.

5. Choose brands that are transparent.

Look for clear ingredient lists, appropriate product information and brands that take cosmetic safety seriously. Be cautious of products promising miracle results or claiming that every conventional ingredient is toxic.

A more thoughtful approach to everyday beauty

Looking after your skin should not feel complicated or frightening. It should be an opportunity to slow down, understand what your skin needs and enjoy a routine that makes you feel good.

At Glow Daily, our approach to natural skincare centres on botanical ingredients, hydration, nourishment and everyday self-care. We believe that skincare can be both enjoyable and informed, with products designed to help your skin feel soft, comfortable and cared for.

You do not have to choose skincare based on fear. Instead, choose based on knowledge, quality and what works for you.

Because caring for your skin starts with understanding it.

Discover natural skincare with Glow Daily

Explore our skincare collection and discover thoughtfully made products designed to bring a little more nourishment and self-care into your daily routine.

Visit glow-daily.co.uk to explore the collection.

Please note: This article is for general educational purposes and is not medical advice. Natural ingredients are not automatically safer than synthetic ingredients. Cosmetic safety depends on the ingredients, formulation, concentration and intended use of each product.

Sources for further reading