Plants have always been the foundation of cosmetics and skincare.

From honey and herb cleansers to rosewater and almond oil body washes, these natural solutions date back to ancient Egypt.

The demand for plant-based skincare continues to rise. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of plant-powered skincare, highlight top natural ingredients, and more!

What Is Plant-Based Skincare?

Plant-based skincare stands out for its use of botanical ingredients, including naturally grown herbs and their extracts. From plant oils to natural acids, these ingredients offer unique benefits that make plant-based products a must-have in your skincare routine.

Benefits of Using Plant-Based Skincare Products

Here’s why plant-based skincare might become your new favorite routine:

Plants pack a punch: Many plant-based formulas offer impressive results, from intense hydration to calming inflammation, and even helping with conditions like hyperpigmentation, eczema, or rosacea.

It’s in demand: As consumers grow more concerned about synthetic chemicals, natural skincare has surged in popularity. In 2019, Ecovia Intelligence valued the European natural cosmetics market at €3.9 billion, showing that natural ingredients are in high demand.

Eco-friendly: Choosing plant-based skincare often reduces your carbon footprint and minimizes environmental damage. Many brands that offer plant-based products also prioritize sustainable packaging and eco-conscious practices.

A new perspective: Adopting plant-based skincare can inspire a broader lifestyle change, encouraging a plant-based diet that benefits not just your skin, but your overall health.

Beyond cruelty-free: If your products are also vegan, it means no animal testing and no animal-derived ingredients, giving you peace of mind about your beauty choices.

Is There a Difference Between Vegan & Plant-Based Skincare Products?

While plant-based skincare products are often vegan, they’re not always the same. A plant-based product typically contains no animal-derived ingredients, but it doesn’t necessarily exclude all animal by-products. On the other hand, vegan skincare ensures that no ingredients come from animals.

Vegan skincare products avoid common animal-derived ingredients like beeswax, lanolin (from sheep’s wool), carmine (crushed beetles), squalene (from shark livers), collagen (from cows or fish), keratin (from animal hair, hooves, and horns), and gelatin (from animal bones).

However, the term vegan is not strictly regulated. To be sure a product is genuinely vegan, look for the Vegan Society Logo, which guarantees that the product is free from animal ingredients and testing.

8 Best Plant-Based Ingredients for Skincare Formulas

You might be surprised to learn that many common skincare ingredients are plant-based and offer some truly impressive benefits.

1. Chamomile

Chamomile is often associated with a relaxing tea, but it’s also a powerhouse for soothing and replenishing the skin.

2. Green Tea

Rich in antioxidants, it fights free radicals and soothes the skin. The caffeine content helps reduce puffiness and minimizes excess oil production, making it ideal for oily skin types.

3. Vitamin C

Vitamin C is widely recognized for its ability to brighten and even skin tone.

4. Jojoba Oil

Jojoba oil may sound like a surprising addition for oily skin, but it’s a game-changer for those prone to acne.

5. Tocopherol (Vitamin E)

Tocopherol is the plant-based form of Vitamin E and works wonders for dry, cracked skin. It seals in moisture and helps repair the skin barrier, making it ideal for irritated or damaged skin.

6. Retinol

Retinol, a derivative of Vitamin A, is a staple in anti-aging skincare.

7. Hyaluronic Acid

Known for it's exceptional ability to hydrate, hyaluronic acid draws moisture into the skin and keeps it plump and dewy.

8. Azelaic Acid

Azelaic acid is a gentle yet powerful exfoliant, especially effective for acne-prone skin. It helps clear out pores, reduce blackheads, and soothe irritation.

Tips for Formulating Plant-Based Skincare Products

Formulating the perfect plant-based skincare products can feel overwhelming, but with the right approach, you can create effective and balanced formulas.

Don’t shy away from oils for oily skin: Plant-based oils are beneficial for all skin types, including oily skin. They can help regulate sebum production and provide moisture without clogging pores.

Blend complementary ingredients: Create products that offer a combination of benefits.

Ensure ingredient compatibility: Be mindful of how ingredients interact with one another.

Consider the time of day: Formulate your products to suit the time of day they’ll be used.