Ever wondered how natural organic skin care products stay fresh without using toxic preservatives? Well luckily, nature has provided us with a vast range of natural preservatives in the natural skin care arsenal to combat those micro organisms to keep your skin care fresh from contamination and mold.
Lets run through a few of the most commonly used natural preservatives in natural & organic skin care products.
Citrus Seed Extract – Grapefruit Seed Oil or Extract
Grapefruit seed is A broad-spectrum, antimicrobial compound prepared in extract form from the seeds, pulp, and white membranes of grapefruits from grapefruit trees (Citrus paradisi).When used as a preservative, GSE has been shown to be highly effective against a broad spectrum of bacteria
There is some controversy around the use of grapefruit seed extract as a preservative in organic skincare. This is because some manufacturers use a chemical process to extract the substance.
Vitamins A, C and E
As well as its skin healing benefits, vitamins is used widely to slow the growth of bacteria to extend the shelf of your skin care products.
Potassium – Potassium Sorbate
Potassium sorbate can effectively preserve against mold and yeast, it is not useful for protecting from bacteria.
Essential Oils – Tea tree oil, sandalwood, lavender
Essential oils such as tea tree oil, sandalwood, lavender, lemon peel, golden seal, oregano etc have proven antibacterial and anti-fungal properties. The only dilemma with using essential oil is that the quantity needed to be completely effectively would be at unsafe levels causing irritation to your skin. In small quantities, it is still very effective in combating bacteria and mold. Minimise contamination Regardless of whether the product is natural or not, it is vital to keep it free from contamination. To extend the shelf life and get the maximum benefits out of your products, – Do not leave product containers uncapped. – Do not share cosmetics (clean your brushes and hands before applying) – Once product is opened, do not use it after 6 months
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
Related Skin Care Ingredients Articles |
I blend my own organic skin care and spa products and to prevent contamination I tend to store it in the fridge, or if I make large quantities, I divide it into smaller batches and freeze it. Then thaw as needed.