Natural beauty is becoming increasingly popular, with a growing number of beauty advocates opting for a more natural look. With minimalism and zero waste approaches on the rise, it gets us thinking about how we can minimise the number of products we need in our day-to-day life, including beauty products. Is it possible to only use a few items to achieve a natural glow (and with minimal effort)?
Here is a list of our top 5 on-the-go beauty products that you can keep in your handbag for a natural glow. Each of these products have multiple uses, making them the most convenient products to have with you at all times without weighing down your handbag. They are perfect for when you need to freshen up your look throughout the day, or spruce yourself up for last minute plans!
Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe vera is a plant that has been used for thousands of years and is known for its soothing properties, particularly on burns and wounds. Aloe vera gel can be used in a variety of ways. Use it as a face moisturiser for its cooling and soothing properties, helpful in relieving any areas of redness. It can be used as a primer, leaving the skin feeling smooth and moisturised before applying make-up. Aloe vera gel is always handy to have in your bag because of its practicality on cuts and abrasions – the healing properties of the gel can reduce any stinging or burning, as well as assisting with the healing process. And as we know, aloe vera gel can be applied directly onto the skin for when you’ve been sitting in the sun for that little bit too long.
Tinted Lip Balm
Lip balm is great for keeping our lips soft and moisturised, and even better when tinted to also provide a sheer lip colour – perfect for when you want to ‘dress up’ your look.Did you know you can also use tinted lip balm as a blush and as an eyeshadow? Rub some tinted pink lip balm on your index finger, and gently blot on the apples of your cheeks for a light glow. For a subtle pop of colour on your eye lids, apply a small amount of your tinted lip balm in the centre of your eyelid, and dab outwards. (Tip: avoid using a tinted lip gloss as this will make your cheeks and eyelids very sticky - always opt for a lip balm).
Vitamin E Cream
Vitamin E possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a popular ingredient in many skin care products. It is moisturising, it can help keep the skin looking young and can help to prevent skin damage associated with UV exposure. The Australian NaturalCare Natural Vitamin E Cream is nourishing, hydrating and suitable for all skin types. As it can be used all over the body, including the face and hands, it is a great all-in-one cream to help you cut back on buying a variety of creams for different areas of the body. Each of the Australian NaturalCare naturopaths (including myself) carry a tube of Natural Vitamin E cream in their handbags – we don’t go anywhere without it!
Facial Mist
Facial mists are suitable for all skin types. Whether you are feeling hot and flustered, or your skin is feeling a little dry, facial mists are ideal as they can help to cool your skin and add a little bit of moisture, too. Facial mists can be used after cleansing as a toner, on top of make-up for a dewy look, and even all over the body as a light, cooling mist (perfect for sunburnt or irritated skin!). We recommend the Juniper Rose-Otto Hydrating Mist, or you can easily make your own with this recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 small spray bottle
- Filtered water
- Rose water
- Witch hazel
- 2 drops of essential oil of your choice
Method:
- Fill your spray bottle halfway with filtered water.
- Add in rose water and witch hazel in equal amounts until spray bottle is almost full.
- Add 2 drops of your chosen essential oil.
- Mix well before use and enjoy on any areas of your skin that could do with a light refresher/a bit of moisture!
Tinted SPF Cream
Tinted SPF cream can be used in a variety of ways and can help to promote beautiful skin. Firstly, their SPF content helps to protect our skin from the sun’s UV rays. UV rays can contribute to skin pigmentation and skin aging, so protecting our skin cells with an SPF-based cream is essential for healthy skin. Secondly, the tinted aspect of these creams can act as a concealer and even as a light foundation. Applying tinted cream to your skin can help to even out your complexion, giving you a natural glow without caking on foundation. If you don’t want to use tinted cream all over your face, you can simply dab a little with your fingers on any areas you’d like to cover up. (Tip: use aloe vera gel as a primer before applying your tinted cream, for a smooth and even application). Thirdly, most tinted SPF creams are moisturising for the skin, helping to prevent dryness and flakiness.
These products are suggested as a guide. If you have any allergies or skin sensitivities, please speak to your doctor before using any new products. Always patch test products before use.
References
- Hekmatpou, D. et.al. (2019), The Effect of Aloe Vera Clinical Trials on Prevention and Healing of Skin Wound: A Systematic Review, Iranian Journal of Medical Sciences, 44(1): 1-9.
- Sandoval, D.A. (2016), How To Use Tinted Lip Balm on Every Part of Your Face, From Your Eyes to Your Cheeks, Bustle, <https://www.bustle.com/articles/143737-how-to-use-tinted-lip-balm-on-every-part-of-your-face-from-your-eyes-to>
- Watson, K., Cobb, C. (2019), How can Vitamin E Oil Help the Appearance and Health of My Face? Healthline, <https://www.healthline.com/health/vitamin-e-for-face>
- Whitworth, G. (2019), 10 Benefits of Using Aloe Vera on Your Face, Healthline, <https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/aloe-vera-for-face>
- Whitworth, G. (2018), Vitamin E and Your Skin, Friends through Food, Healthline, <https://www.healthline.com/health/vitamin-e-for-skin>
