Picture it: Ten years in the future, you are walking into Target, and you are looking for a new moisturizer for your gracefully aging face. You head over to what was formerly the commercial skincare aisle that used to be stocked full of harsh products and cancer creams masquerading as “skincare.” You remember those days and are ecstatic to see that all the crap has been replaced with a bounty of energetic, green, non-toxic beauty brands that are actually there to help you and your skin feel like the glowing earth goddess you are. 

Seeing ingredients on skincare bottles that are recognizable as things that exist in nature will hopefully be the norm soon, but until that day, there are some things we can do now to achieve that healthy, natural skin glow. 

It is quite sad that as a society, we veered from all the holistic practices that humans have used for generations to keep their skin healthy. Thankfully consumers are becoming more aware of the harms in conventional skincare products and are beginning to demand cleaner products. (Read about how skincare companies have been deceiving us) 

Whether you are looking to buy more plant-centric products or looking for superstar ingredients to add to your home skin concoctions, this list highlights some of the best things you can use on your skin. If you want to learn to make skincare products at home, you will find that it’s better for your skin, for the planet, AND your wallet! 

The plants and oils listed have been used in some capacity for hundreds and thousands of years, and they now have proven benefits backed by science. Including any combination of these ingredients in your routine brings natural anti-aging properties, cleansing, and restoration to your skin’s natural state.

1. Chamomile

This herb is a powerhouse anti-inflammatory and soothing ingredient that contains many antioxidants. It is great for treating conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea. Chamomile can also be a skin lightening agent for people who experience hyper-pigmentation

2. Echinacea

Like Chamomile, this her is full of antioxidants bringing natural anti-aging benefits such as preventing and treating fine lines and wrinkles. The potent antioxidants help fight free radicals that can feed cancer cells and speed up the aging process. Echinacea can also help prevent acne.

3. Calendula

This one is a great herb for healing wounds, rashes, and eczema. Another know use is for soothing and mending burns. Calendula can bring more of a deep heal and is also great for pimples and blemishes because it also has anti-inflammatory properties.

4. Basil (In any form like oil, extraction, or fresh herb)

Most herbs contain a high amount of beneficial compounds like natural vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants (which is why they are such all-stars when it comes to skincare). Basil can be used on inflamed skin to bring some relief and soothing. It is an astringent, so it might be especially good for those who suffer from excess oil on the skin. And its antiseptic qualities make it ideal for acne-prone and inflamed skin. 

5. Rosehip Seed Oil 

This deeply nourishing oil is pressed from the seeds and the fruit of the rose plant, and it is an all-time favorite because it is great for all skin types! Rosehip oil has natural exfoliation properties from its high level of Vitamin A or retinol, which helps increase cell turnover. It improves texture and elasticity while getting rid of dullness, leaving skin with its natural healthy glow.

6. Sea Buckthorn Oil

This one is for those who have mature, dry, cracked, or rapidly aging skin. Sea Buckthorn oil has a balanced composition of unique fatty acids that provide deep hydration as well as skin regeneration and reparation. The oil also helps remove toxins, prevent infections, and oxygenates the skin. It has also been proven to promote collagen synthesis and encourage wound healing. 

7. Argan Oil 

This is oil works wonders not only for skincare but also to bring hair a brilliant shine. Argan oil isn’t too light or too heavy, making it practical for all skin types. It is often put in formulations geared towards stretch marks because it is very hydrating and high in vitamin A & E. Another common use is in beard oil or helping to soothe irritation from shaving and razor bumps – for both men and women. 

*Note: If you are curious about using carrier oils, there are many guides online that can point you to the best oils for your particular skin type or concern. There are just a few named here that are good for all skin types, but this barely scratches the surface. There are so many oils out there that will give you firm, glowing skin – even if you didn’t think you could have that again. 

8. Aloe Vera

Aloe vera comes in either a gel or liquid form. It comes from the aloe barbadensis leaves. Most people probably know it for being a treatment of sunburns, but it has been used since ancient times to moisturize and soothe the skin. It is anti-inflammatory and extremely moisturizing and is often added to cleansers and creams. Another popular use is simply as a toner to remove excess dirt and oil from the skin. This one is a must-have!

9. Tea Tree Essential Oil 

*Note: Always look for an organic, quality brand when using essential oils on your skin*

This essential oils shares a lot of the anti-inflammatory benefits as the other ingredients, but it is also anti-microbial. For people who suffer from acne and pimples, this is a great option to help calm flare-ups and prevent scarring. When you are using essential oils, it is important to always dilute them with a carrier oil (such as one of the ones listed above) but especially with tea tree. All you need is a few drops to help leave your face smooth and clear. 

10. Lavender Essential Oil

If you didn’t know, lavender helps to repel insects! It is This plant is all around an amazing addition to any skincare regimen. It helps reduce redness and irritation for people who tend towards dry skin. Lavender is also great for hyperpigmentation.

11. Geranium Essential Oil 

Geranium oil has an extremely earthy, floral smell but comes with an array of benefits. It is great for all skin types and is known to kill bacteria that cause acne and eczema. It is a powerful oil for balancing sebum production and treating scarring. 

12. Frankincense Essential Oil

Recent studies have shown that Frankincense essential oil has “tissue remodeling” effects on human skin cells meaning that it is proven to help surprise inflammation and aid collagen in producing new healthy skin cells. Other benefits include its firming and toning properties. It also helps regulate and lessen sebum production in those with more oily skin types. And the smell takes you right to coast filled with musty pine and citrus. Love!

Final notes: When beginning to experiment with natural oils and essential oils, it is important to note that the skin needs time to adapt and patience to find what works best for your skin. Everybody is different! Sourcing is also extremely important when it comes to the products you are putting on your skin because anything that is used topically is absorbed into your bloodstream. Do your research to find companies that care about the quality of the products they create, the effects they have on your health, and their impact on the environment. 

These oils will last a long time, and switching to more natural products can save you loads of money as time goes on. If you are new to natural skincare, you can try picking one or two ingredients and starting from there. It can take some experimenting to figure out what works for you, but that is part of the fun!