Natural and Holistic Skin Care
A Review of Naturopathica Cleansing Facial Scrub
A review highlighting one of the products available from the environmentally responsible skin care company Naturopathica.
With Earth Day 2008 only a few days away, it is only fitting to highlight one of the most ecologically impressive natural skin care companies in the world today. Naturopathica Holistic Health started in 1995 and is based out of East Hampton, New York. They own a spa of the same name, but also produce an earth-friendly skin care line for at-home use.
About Naturopathica
Naturopathica is committed to providing quality, results-oriented skin care without the use of synthetic thickeners or solvents, and they steer clear of petroleum-based ingredients as well as synthetic dyes and fragrances. The company's founder, Barbara Close, has authored three books on holisitic self care, and has spent more than 20 years as an herbalist and massage therapist. Naturopathica has been featured in a variety of magazines including Elle, In Touch, Town & Country, Nylon, Harper's Bazaar, to name a few.
Naturopathica is also forging the way in environmentally responsible skin care. They are enrolled in their area's Green Choice Utility Program, and offset 100% of the electricity used at their headquarters, warehouse and their spa locations. Additionally, they only use ingredients that are sustainable and they are members of the Green Spa Network, the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics, and the Sustainable Packaging Coalition.
Cleansing Facial Scrub
Cleansing Facial Scrub, by Naturopathica, is one of those wonderful products that combines two essential steps of proper skin care – cleansing and exfoliating – into one simple step. This creamy cleanser is loaded with clinical-grade essential oils and ultra hydrating ingredients, which leave the skin feeling clean, but soft and supple.
The easiest way to use this product is in the shower. Apply a dime-sized amount to wet fingertips or a facial sponge and massage into the skin. Then rinse away.
This product is available online and in select spas in the United States and retails for US$52 for four ounces. This price point is comparable to the prices of its competitors.
Key Ingredients
What makes this scrub so effective is the use of jojoba beads as an exfoliant. Jojoba is the oil found in nature that is the closest in structure to our skin's natural oil. The beads are perfectly round, making them gentle enough for even the most sensitive skin types. The beads gently polish away the dead, dry skin cells that make skin look and feel dull. You can read more about the importance of exfoliating your skin here.
Oat Beta Gluten is another powerful addition to Naturopathica's Cleansing Facial Scrub. Studies have shown that when used topically, oat beta gluten helps skin retain as much as 28% more moisture. Skin that is well hydrated will look and feel healthier, and hydration also reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
The Pros
- Combines two skin care steps into one, and is gentle enough for everyday use
- Works well for all skin types, but is especially nice for dry or dehydrated skin types
- Uses only natural and sustainable ingredients, avoiding petroleum-based preservatives
- Clinical grade essential oils like ylang ylang, lavender, and rose feel and smell wonderful on the skin
- Alleviates problems related to skin congestion, like blackheads and acne
The Cons
- A seperate eye makeup remover will be needed, as the jojoba beads interefere with gentle cleasing of the eye area
- Those who suffer from plant allergies may find the saturation of natural extracts to be too much for their skin
- The use of rose water and rose oil may irritate those who have been diagnosed with rosacea or couperose skin
Overall, Naturopathica Cleansing Facial Scrub is a great product for those who seek to support sustainable, holistic, or health-driven skin care. It is packed with top of the line ingredients that provide immediate results to the skin. While it is gentle for sensitive skin types, those with allergies or certain skin conditions might find it mildly irritating. However, the vast majority of people with dry, normal, or combination skin will find this product a refreshing addition to their skin care regimen.
