Plant based skincare is a great choice for people with sensitive skin and can relieve allergies that develop over time. They also don’t clog pores like some other products do.
A good example of this would be bakuchiol (derived from the psoralea corylifolia plant), which works similar to retinol but doesn’t cause irritation.
Antioxidants
Plant based products are rich in antioxidants which combat free radicals and work to restore, balance and strengthen your skin cells. Natural, whole-plant ingredients like jojoba oil can help even out your skin tone and reduce hyperpigmentation.
Plant-based moisturizers contain oils, butters and extracts which help support a healthy skin barrier and increase your skin’s elasticity. Organic, plant-based skincare is better for the environment as it uses less processing and doesn’t use any synthetic chemicals.
Antioxidant-rich plants can also improve the appearance of your skin by reducing wrinkles, redness and other signs of aging. Essential fats in plant-based skincare can help calm acne, fight dryness, battle oiliness and smooth scars. Hydrocolloids (naturally occurring polymers) give plant-based skincare a smooth texture without the need for harmful petrochemicals or synthesized polymers.
Hydration
Plant ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, and tea tree oil are natural moisturizing powerhouses. They also support the skin microbiome and promote balanced moisture levels.
Vitamins found in plant-based products work to restore and strengthen your skin cells while naturally decreasing signs of aging. Essential fats and acids in plant-based skincare offer a wide range of benefits including calming acne, fighting dryness, combating oiliness, smoothing scars, and increasing skin elasticity.
Many plant based beauty companies source their ingredients responsibly from local farmers who use organic farming practices that don’t deplete soil fertility or hinder biodiversity. This helps local economies and promotes sustainability and long-term growth. Plus, when money circulates within a localized economy it positively impacts the people and businesses that depend on it.
Soothes
Many products that claim to be plant-based actually contain a mixture of plants and chemicals. When these ingredients come into contact with your skin, they are absorbed through pathways in the epidermis and can enter your bloodstream. This is why it’s important to always check that plant-based products are free of ingredients that could damage the body over time.
Luckily, plants can provide natural solutions for many skin problems, such as soothing redness and inflammation. According to Koestline, plants can also include bakuchiol (derived from the psoralea corylifolia plant) which functions as an effective retinol alternative and can smooth wrinkles, combat acne, and improve the appearance of sun damaged skin. Plant-based products are also gentle on your skin and are often cruelty free and more sustainable for the environment.
Relieves Allergies
Plant extracts like chamomile and green tea help soothe and calm the skin. They also reduce redness, irritation and puffiness. And they promote healthy cell growth.
But not all plant ingredients are created equal. Some can be irritating to the skin, especially if you’re sensitive or allergic to them.
Essential oils, for example, are a common allergen and irritant in skincare products. They are usually very concentrated and often not properly diluted for topical use.
The co-founders of Starling Skincare had very different skincare struggles. Lisa had severe dermatitis and chronic immune deficiencies; Nathalie dealt with multiple food allergies and sensitivities. After years of searching for clean, plant-based solutions that worked, they decided to create their own line of products. That’s how Starling was born.
Vegan
Vegan skincare is a great option for those who are against animal testing, and don’t want products containing animal ingredients. However, it’s important to note that not all plant-based skin care is actually vegan.
Plants produce a huge variety of phytonutrients (sometimes called phytochemicals), which offer benefits to your skin and health. When used in skin care, they can reduce wrinkles, treat puffiness, calm acne, and fight dryness.
Look for plant-based beauty products with shorter ingredient lists that include the botanical name of each component. This makes it easier to keep track of what you’re putting on your skin. It’s also more environmentally friendly since the ingredients were grown and harvested locally. This supports agroforestry and helps the local economy grow. The same goes for the products’ packaging which is made from recycled and sustainable materials.