Green chemistry and skincare: what does it mean?

All skincare consists of chemical substances, including water, plant oils and botanical extracts. Green chemistry is about designing products and processes to reduce the use or creation of hazardous substances. It is not another term for “chemical-free” or simply “natural”.

Chemistry and skincare

Chemistry describes substances, their properties and how they interact. In skincare, it helps us understand how ingredients can form a stable product with the intended texture and function. Natural and synthetic ingredients alike must be assessed in the context of their use and the complete formula.

What is green chemistry?

Green chemistry considers choices throughout a product’s life cycle, from raw materials and production to use and disposal. Relevant questions include how to prevent waste, use resources efficiently and reduce hazardous substances. A general interest in these principles is different from documented environmental performance for a specific product.

Natural skincare is still chemistry

A plant oil is a mixture of chemical substances. Extracts may be processed to make them suitable and stable for cosmetic use. Natural origin alone does not establish that an ingredient is safer, gentler or better for the environment.

For skin, the complete formulation, the amount used and individual tolerance matter. For environmental claims, look for concrete information about the aspect being described, such as packaging or production.

How should you choose skincare?

Choose products that suit your skin and read their current ingredient lists and directions. If you have a known allergy, check for the specific substances you need to avoid. A long ingredient name is not in itself a warning sign, just as “natural” is not a guarantee.

SKØN’s approach to ingredients

Plant oils and ingredients of natural origin are part of SKØN’s approach to skincare. We consider ingredients as part of a complete formulation, with attention to texture, care and everyday use. Read the information for each product rather than assuming that every product has the same ingredients or certifications.

Further reading

The US Environmental Protection Agency’s introduction to green chemistry explains the principles behind the term. This general source is not a certification of SKØN products.