Ingredients derived from herbs are found in a good portion of cosmetic products, from shampoos to serums. And as long as they have a plant base, that means they're safer, right? Shirley Chi, a California-based dermatologist, explained to Well & Good that the issue of such products is complicated.
"I always have patients tell me they chose plant-based products because they think they are safer because anything with such content is safe," she said. "Poison ivy is a plant, which means that not everything plant is safe."
Plants have historically been used as a fragrance for skin care products. Jeffrey Fromowitz, a Florida-based dermatologist, explains that "fragrances are one of the causes of skin irritation."
"Being natural ingredients, they generally do not cause problems and fit well with skin creams," he explains. ?But not everything natural is safe for all skin types. Every skin has different levels of sensitivity and reacts differently. "
For example, essential oils are another form of plant-based cosmetic products. But they are not very safe for people with sensitive skin. For example citrus, lavender or mint oils should not be used if you have fair skin. Chamomile extract is more "friendly" to the skin, however the skin reactions may be different.
If you want to try a product, says Shirley Chi, place it under the ear, along the neck, and after you spread it well, go to sleep. Try it for several nights in a row and if you have no problems - like acne, redness, irritation, dry skin, etc. - you can put it on the skin.
All you have to do is consult your dermatologist beforehand to buy products suitable for your skin type, as not every plant-based cream is safe.
