The world of skincare is vast. It’s a daunting task to wade through the mass of products, trying to figure out which ones are right for you and your specific skin type.

One thing we do know for sure is that a growing body of evidence suggests synthetic products can have a negative impact both on the environment and on your body – like this 2019 study that found the chemical preservatives in skincare products can stop your skin’s natural microbes from functioning properly.

And as a result of research like this, more of us are seeking natural skincare routines. Enter: herbal and plant-based skincare.

Herbs and plant extracts can keep your skin nourished, healthy, and make you glow. Here we’ll look at the what, how, and why of plant-based skincare:

• Why herbs and botanicals are good for your skin and how they protect it

• Which herbs and botanicals to look out for in your skincare products

• How to choose the right herbs and botanicals to suit your skincare needs

Explore our full natural skincare range here.

Why are herbs and botanicals good for the skin and how do they protect it?

Synthetic skincare products often contain parabens, dioxins and phenols, along with other chemical compounds that are harmful to health and the environment. With some toxins being absorbed directly into the skin, extended exposure can lead to adverse skin reactions and some have even been found to have carcinogenic (cancer causing) properties. 

Many herbs offer a natural alternative with the same, if not even better long-term results. Plants with anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties are especially healing – and they can give your skin a healthy glow and help maintain its natural balance. 

Products that are wholly derived from nature tend to be packed full of antioxidants. Many plants contain minerals like Vitamin C and E which protect the skin from damage while promoting cell repair. When used correctly, herbs and botanicals are gentle on the skin and can combat common skin issues without the need for harsh chemicals. 

What herbs should you look out for in skincare products?

Using botanicals on the skin is nothing new. But we’ve noticed that plant-based skincare is gaining momentum – because the depth of knowledge about how and when they can support your skin is growing. Everybody’s waking up to the fact that plants have (and have always had) the answers they were looking for. 

At Zen Maitri, our medical herbalists are committed to creating sustainable and natural skincare products that are good for you and the planet. To help you get started, here are a few incredible herbs, botanicals and natural oils that can soothe, repair, and nourish your skin.

Rosehip oil will hydrate your skin and give a natural glow

Pressed from the fruit and seeds of the rose plant, rosehip oil is loaded with vitamins and essential fatty acids that nourish and protect the skin. 

With collagen boosting qualities, this hydrating oil is known to fight signs of ageing and prevent the formation of MMP-1 – an enzyme that breaks down the body’s store of collagen, which naturally decreases with age. 

One study in 2015 found that those who took rosehip oil orally for 8 weeks saw a noticeable increase in the elasticity of their skin, which is why it’s a powerful tool for reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. 

Boasting antifungal, antioxidant and antiinflammatory properties, rosehip oil is a key component of our Night Cream. Thoughtfully blended with herbal oils including gotu kola, sea buckthorn, frankincense, lavender and chamomile, this botanical cream will soothe, hydrate and uplift your complexion overnight – and it has a luxurious, dreamy scent. 

Sea buckthorn will protect, repair and reduce redness

This plant (of the elaeagnaceae botanical family) boasts a range of healing properties and is rich in skin-nourishing vitamins and fatty acids. 

There are two types of oil that can be extracted from sea buckthorn: seed oil and berry oil. While they come from the same plant, the two types of oil have slightly different properties, useful for different skin complaints. 

Sea buckthorn berry oil is rich in omega 7 – which makes it deeply moisturising and very effective at repairing skin cells. Known to lessen the appearance of scars and blemishes, oil made from the orange pulp of the plant’s berries can be applied topically to problem areas.

Inside sea buckthorn berries are tiny black seeds that can be cultivated into a bright yellow oil which is high in omega 3. The seed oil is easily absorbed and can be applied daily to leave you with deeply nourished skin. 

Sea buckthorn seed oil is an active ingredient in our Elaeagnus Face Oil – made with a carefully balanced infusion of carrier oils and more potent essential oils. Perfect to apply during the day or at night, this blend offers protection from environmental stresses and helps your skin heal. 

Jojoba oil protects the skin while leaving it soft and supple

Hailing from Southern Arizona, California and Mexico, jojoba oil is produced from the seeds of the Chinensis plant – and actually, it’s technically a wax. What makes it so unique and effective is its resemblance to the natural sebum produced by human skin. 

As the closest natural oil to our own, jojoba oil can moisturise, condition and hydrate the skin, without clogging pores or aggravating existing skin problems. 

We included jojoba oil in the formula for our replenishing Day Cream, along with calendula; passionflower; sandalwood; jasmine oils; and an infusion of Vitamin E to give your skin a soothing and protective morning boost. 

 

Choose the right herbs and botanicals for your needs 

In order to find the right natural skincare products for you, it's important to understand your skin and what it needs. Our team of medical herbalists have developed a range of skincare products to suit everyone. 

Whether you’re looking for a specialised treatment for acne breakouts (Blemish Control Gel), a moisturising formula for very dry skin (Hydrating Cream), or simply looking for a refreshing boost for your skincare routine (Rose Natural Toner), all of our products are carefully blended using premium botanicals. 

 

Two things before you head off. First, you can explore our full natural skincare range here.

Second: If you’re interested in caring for your skin with herbal products but are unsure which plant-based blends would best nourish your unique skin, we encourage you to book a consultation with our team. We don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach to skincare, or to health in general – and we’re always happy to support you on your wellness journey.