Naturally Beautiful with Plant-Based Skincare

Plant-based skincare - Photo Unsplash

By Dr Nur Khaisiyah Othman

Since the end of the global Covid pandemic, we have seen a noticeable shift in how consumers view health and nutrition, with recent studies showing a growing inclination towards healthier alternatives and a greater acceptance of plant-based solutions.

As indicated in the report by NielsenIQ, “Growing Sustainable Beauty Trends for Emerging Brands in 2023,” consumers are increasingly viewing plant-based solutions positively. This trend is reflected in the purchasing patterns of diverse consumer demographics, who now prefer plant-based beauty and personal care products.

Further, research reported by Personal Care Insights evidences the high consumer demand for plant-based beauty products in the Asia-Pacific region. Thanks to their dermatological benefits, this shift isn’t just a passing trend as plant-based alternatives have become an easy choice for informed consumers.

Health and Safety

As plant-based and organic choices gain more traction, as a medical practitioner with a profound appreciation for cosmetics, this choice is not just about beauty, it’s also a commitment to health and safety.

Palm oil holds a treasure trove of potent antioxidants known as tocols, which come in two main varieties: the more common tocopherols and the rarer tocotrienols, both of which are types of vitamin E. While both offer antioxidant benefits, tocotrienols pack an extra punch. Palm oil is especially rich in tocotrienols, which explains some of palm oil’s health benefits. Tocotrienols, as a type of vitamin E, have been associated with a range of positive health effects, from neuroprotection against Alzheimer’s to supporting cardiovascular health and exhibiting anti-cancer properties.

Palm oil is also packed with vitamin A, which is vital for maintaining healthy vision and supporting immune function.

As consumers become more aware of what goes into the products they use, there’s a growing demand for transparency and the safety of ingredients being used. For years, palm oil has been an underappreciated but widely used natural solution in many beauty products. As we explore the science of cosmetics further, the significance of palm oil becomes increasingly apparent.

Plant-based skincare

For example, basic oleochemicals such as fatty acids, fatty alcohols, and glycerol, as well as their derivatives, are essential components in cosmetic formulations. These properties are derived through processes like epoxidation and sulfonation. Palm oil, due to its high fatty acid content and versatility, is a dominant source of these oleochemicals.

Palm oil is extensively used to create surfactants, which are essential for cleansing and foaming, as well as emulsifiers, which prevent oil and water from separating, and emollients, which enhance the skin feel in creams and lotions.

With over 70% of cosmetic products containing palm oil or its derivatives, palm oil is a valuable cosmetic ingredient, rich in Vitamin E, a key factor in promoting healthier skin, especially around the eyes. Its moisturising and antioxidant properties, particularly through tocotrienols and beta-carotene – a precursor to Vitamin A, help combat premature aging, address acne concerns, and aid in wound healing. Both vitamins A and E are fat-soluble, playing a crucial role in moisturising dry skin. In short, the world’s most versatile vegetable oil effectively meets the dermatological needs of consumers by providing essential hydration and nourishment while proritising safety.

On this count, the Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO) certification plays a vital role in ensuring the responsible sourcing of palm oil for cosmetics. By adhering to rigorous international standards, the MSPO certification provides a guarantee that the palm oil used in our cosmetics is obtained responsibly. This certification serves as a testament to the cosmetics industry’s renewed dedication to environmental responsibility and ethical sourcing.

In addition to the certification standards, the safety of palm oil in cosmetics has undergone thorough evaluation by organisations like the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel. Their assessment confirms the safety of palm oil for use in cosmetics. Significantly, the industry’s transition towards plant-based oils, including palm oil, reflects a broader awareness of environmental and societal concerns. This transition is not just environmentally sound but also caters to diverse consumer beliefs and practices.

Empowering Communities Through Sustainable Practices

And the whole process of getting palm oil for our cosmetic products is actually a great story of empowerment and taking care of the environment. By supporting products made with sustainably sourced palm oil, we contribute to fair labour practices and improved living conditions for smallholder farmers. This approach creates a win-win situation for everyone involved – consumers, producers, and the planet. Our future generations will benefit greatly from the demonstrable impact this will have on the environment.

Ultimately, I just can’t stress enough how important it is to empower people about healthier choices. Knowledge is power, and when consumers know better, they choose better. This means they’ll push for more sustainable products.

So, it’s really up to cosmetic brands to get the word out about their efforts to be sustainable. They need to show how using more organic substances is a good thing for the industry, the environment, and the communities that produce it. In effect, as consumers, we hold the power to make a difference with our choices.