At Botani we pride ourselves on being more than just a 'natural skincare' brand. We specialise in botanical cosmetology. Not familiar with the term? Don't worry, neither was I before I joined the team. Botanical cosmetology combines the use of pure botanical ingredients with scientific knowledge and innovation, to create skincare formulations that are biocompatible i.e. they are compatible and work harmoniously with your skin), and are effective in treating and maintaining skin health. This includes treating topical skin conditions such as acne, eczema and dermatitis to common skin concerns such as dehydration and pigmentation.
Botanical Cosmetology
We have found that the term 'natural skincare' is a very grey area. And to be honest, we feel there are lots of skincare brands that take the mickey out of consumers and are not being 100% transparent. At a glance of their ingredients, you can see they are not authentically natural. The tip here for wading through the 'natural' claims, is understanding the ingredients listed on the labels. Just like we have all learnt the importance of reading the ingredients listed on packaged food. We are aware the sugar, salt, preservative and artificial colour content you should be in the practice of reading your skincare labels.
You don't need to have a degree in naturopathy or bioscience to do this. A simple approach is if there is a list of ingredients with very long names that you don't know how to pronounce, don't use it. Those ingredients belong in a chemistry class, not on your face or body.
Natural Ingredients
It's also important to consider that some natural ingredients can be harmful or irritating to the skin. Just because it's natural doesn't mean it's biocompatible with your skin. There are some ingredients when used in a concentration that is too strong can cause skin irritation, such as essential oils. Also, some ingredients are natural but don't add any value. Water is a perfect example. Yes, water is natural and very important to our body's overall health, our brain is made up of 75% water. It is suitable to be used in skin care, in the right volume. For example, a moisturiser that has too much water in the formulation, water can be used to 'pad out' the formulation, will not provide the long-lasting hydration with your skin needs.
Barbara's Knowledge
This is where Barbara's knowledge and 20+ years' experience as a naturopath and herbalist, along with working with leading scientists and microbiologist is what sets Botani apart from the rest. She has in-depth knowledge about what ingredients to combine, so they work synergistically and the concentration required, so they will not only be harmonious on the skin but will successfully treat the skin. Barbara has been one of the pioneers in botanical cosmetology and continued to be a leader and innovator in this field. So before you think that all 'natural skincare' brands are all the same, think again! Author: Rigel
