Best Natural Skin Care Brands 2018: A Comprehensive Guide to Clean Beauty

Best Natural Skin Care Brands 2018: A Comprehensive Guide to Clean Beauty cars.truckstrend.com

The year 2018 marked a significant turning point in the beauty industry, ushering in an era where consumers demanded more transparency, efficacy, and ethical sourcing from their skincare. The buzzword wasn’t just "natural" anymore; it was about "clean beauty"—a movement focused on products free from harmful chemicals, synthetic fragrances, parabens, sulfates, and other controversial ingredients. As awareness grew about the potential impact of conventional cosmetics on health and the environment, a dedicated group of brands rose to prominence, redefining what it meant to care for one’s skin naturally.

This comprehensive guide delves into the best natural skin care brands that made waves in 2018, exploring what defined "natural" at the time, the benefits of embracing this shift, key considerations for selecting products, and practical advice for incorporating them into your routine. If you were looking to detox your vanity and embrace a more mindful approach to beauty in 2018, these brands were at the forefront of the revolution.

Best Natural Skin Care Brands 2018: A Comprehensive Guide to Clean Beauty

What Defined "Natural" in 2018 Skincare?

While the term "natural" remains largely unregulated, by 2018, a general consensus had begun to emerge among conscious consumers and reputable brands. For a product to be considered "natural" in this context, it typically meant:

• Absence of Controversial Ingredients: The primary characteristic was the deliberate exclusion of common irritants and suspected endocrine disruptors, including parabens (preservatives), sulfates (foaming agents), phthalates (plasticizers), synthetic fragrances, artificial dyes, mineral oil, PEGs, and silicones.
• Emphasis on Plant-Derived Ingredients: The formulations heavily relied on botanicals, essential oils, plant extracts, fruit acids, and mineral-based ingredients. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid derived from fermentation, plant-based squalane, and various superfood extracts were highly sought after.
• Minimal Processing: Ideally, natural ingredients would undergo minimal processing to retain their beneficial properties. This often meant cold-pressed oils or unrefined butters.
• Cruelty-Free and Ethical Sourcing: A strong ethical component often accompanied natural brands. Many were proudly cruelty-free (not tested on animals) and began to emphasize sustainable and ethically sourced raw materials, though this was still an evolving area.
• Transparency: Leading natural brands distinguished themselves by providing clear, understandable ingredient lists and often sharing their sourcing philosophies, fostering trust with consumers.

It’s important to remember that "natural" didn’t always mean "organic" or "hypoallergenic," but it signaled a conscious effort to move away from synthetic chemicals towards ingredients found in nature.

Why Choose Natural Skincare in 2018? Benefits Explored

The burgeoning popularity of natural skincare in 2018 wasn’t just a fleeting trend; it was driven by tangible benefits that resonated with a growing segment of the population:

• Reduced Exposure to Harsh Chemicals: For many, the primary motivation was to minimize daily exposure to chemicals linked to skin irritation, allergies, and potential long-term health concerns. Natural alternatives offered a perceived safer option.
• Nutrient-Rich Formulations: Plant-based ingredients are often packed with vitamins, antioxidants, essential fatty acids, and phytonutrients that can nourish, protect, and support skin health more holistically.
• Better for Sensitive Skin: Many individuals with sensitive or reactive skin found relief with natural products, as they generally contained fewer synthetic additives that could trigger adverse reactions.
• Environmental Considerations: Natural ingredients are typically more biodegradable, and many natural brands embraced sustainable packaging and production practices, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers.
• Embracing Holistic Wellness: For many, natural skincare was part of a broader lifestyle shift towards holistic well-being, where what you put on your body was as important as what you put in it.



• Transparency and Trust: The leading natural brands of 2018 were pioneers in ingredient transparency, empowering consumers to make informed choices and build trust in their product selections.

Key Considerations When Selecting Natural Brands (2018 Context)

While the natural beauty landscape of 2018 offered exciting possibilities, making informed choices required a discerning eye:

• Read Ingredient Lists Diligently: The "natural" label alone wasn’t enough. It was crucial to scrutinize the INCI (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients) list. Look for whole plant extracts, cold-pressed oils, and ingredients you recognize. Be wary of "greenwashing"—brands that market themselves as natural but still contain questionable ingredients.
• Understand Your Skin Type and Concerns: Even natural ingredients can be potent. Whether you had oily, dry, sensitive, or acne-prone skin, understanding your specific needs was vital to selecting products that would truly benefit you.
• Check for Certifications: While not universal, certifications like USDA Organic, Ecocert, or Leaping Bunny (for cruelty-free) provided an extra layer of assurance about the product’s natural claims and ethical standards.
• Shelf Life and Storage: Natural products, especially those with fewer synthetic preservatives, often had a shorter shelf life once opened. Pay attention to the PAO (Period After Opening) symbol (a jar with a number, e.g., "6M" for 6 months) and store products correctly (often in a cool, dark place).
• Price Point: High-quality, ethically sourced natural ingredients could be more expensive than their synthetic counterparts. Consumers needed to be prepared for potentially higher price tags, viewing them as an investment in skin health.
• Brand Philosophy and Reviews: Researching a brand’s overall philosophy, commitment to sustainability, and reading customer reviews (especially those detailing long-term use) offered valuable insights.

Spotlight on the Best Natural Skincare Brands of 2018

In 2018, several brands truly stood out for their commitment to clean formulations, effective results, and innovative approaches to natural skincare.

• Drunk Elephant: A powerhouse by 2018, Drunk Elephant championed the "clean clinical" approach. They famously eliminated the "Suspicious 6" (essential oils, drying alcohols, silicones, chemical sunscreens, fragrances/dyes, and SLS) from all their products. Their philosophy was about biocompatibility—ingredients the skin could easily recognize and utilize. Hero products like the C-Firma Day Serum and Protini Polypeptide Cream were highly sought after for their effective, non-irritating formulas.
• Tata Harper: Synonymous with luxury green beauty, Tata Harper’s brand was a pioneer in the farm-to-face movement. All products were formulated, manufactured, and packaged on her 1,200-acre Vermont farm. In 2018, their commitment to 100% natural and non-toxic ingredients, along with their potent, multi-active formulas (often containing 20+ active botanicals), made them a top choice for those seeking high-performance, truly natural skincare. The Resurfacing Mask and Regenerating Cleanser were cult favorites.
• Herbivore Botanicals: With their minimalist aesthetic and effective plant-based formulas, Herbivore Botanicals was a huge hit on Instagram and in mainstream beauty retailers like Sephora. Their focus on natural ingredients, beautiful packaging, and accessible price points (for natural beauty) made them a gateway brand for many. Their Pink Cloud Rosewater Moisture Creme and Lapis Facial Oil were particularly popular in 2018.
• Pai Skincare: Hailing from the UK, Pai Skincare gained a loyal following for its dedication to sensitive and reactive skin. Their products were certified organic, cruelty-free, and formulated without irritants. The brand was a godsend for those struggling with eczema, rosacea, or general sensitivity, offering gentle yet effective solutions. The Rosehip Bioregenerate Oil was a standout product for its restorative properties.
• Youth to the People: This brand quickly rose to fame in 2018 with its superfood-powered skincare line. Infusing cold-pressed extracts of kale, spinach, and green tea into their products, Youth to the People offered nutrient-dense formulas that appealed to a younger, health-conscious demographic. Their Superfood Cleanser and Superberry Hydrate + Glow Oil were widely celebrated for their refreshing feel and visible results.
• Indie Lee: Founded by a cancer survivor, Indie Lee was built on the premise of creating clean, non-toxic beauty products that were safe and effective. Their focus on simple, yet powerful, natural ingredients resonated deeply with consumers seeking a healthier alternative. The CoQ-10 Toner and Squalane Facial Oil were among their bestsellers, known for their purity and effectiveness.

Building a Natural Skincare Routine (How-to Guide)

Transitioning to natural skincare in 2018 was straightforward, mirroring the steps of a conventional routine but with an emphasis on ingredient quality:

1. Cleanse: Start with a gentle, natural cleanser. Look for oil-based cleansers (like those from Indie Lee or Herbivore) or creamy formulations (like Youth to the People’s Superfood Cleanser) that effectively remove impurities without stripping the skin’s natural oils.
2. Tone: Follow with an alcohol-free natural toner or floral hydrosol (e.g., rosewater, witch hazel) to balance pH, provide light hydration, and prepare the skin for subsequent treatments.
3. Treat/Serum: This is where you address specific concerns. Choose a natural serum packed with antioxidants (Drunk Elephant C-Firma), vitamins, or targeted botanicals (Tata Harper’s serums) to deliver concentrated benefits.
4. Moisturize: Hydrate and protect your skin with a natural moisturizer. Depending on your skin type, opt for a lightweight lotion (Herbivore Pink Cloud) or a richer cream (Drunk Elephant Protini) or facial oil (Pai Rosehip Oil).
5. Sun Protection (Daytime): In 2018, natural sunscreens were predominantly mineral-based (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide). Look for non-nano formulations that offer broad-spectrum protection. This was often the trickiest natural product to find in a cosmetically elegant form.
6. Exfoliate/Mask (2-3 times/week): Incorporate natural exfoliants (like Tata Harper’s Resurfacing Mask with AHAs/BHAs or gentle enzymatic masks) and nourishing masks (clay, honey, or botanical-based) to refine texture and provide a boost of nutrients.

Tips for Transitioning:

• Patch Test: Always test new products on a small area of skin before applying them all over.
• Introduce Gradually: Don’t switch all your products at once. Introduce one new natural product at a time to see how your skin reacts.
• Be Patient: Natural ingredients often work by supporting the skin’s natural processes, so visible results might take a few weeks.

Challenges and Solutions in Natural Skincare (2018 Perspective)

While the benefits were clear, navigating the natural skincare world in 2018 came with its own set of challenges:

• Shorter Shelf Life: Without strong synthetic preservatives, natural products were more susceptible to spoilage.
  • Solution: Pay attention to expiry dates and PAO symbols. Store products in a cool, dark place, and use clean hands or spatulas to avoid contamination.
• Potency and Stability: Some natural ingredients could be less stable or potent than their synthetic counterparts, or their efficacy could vary.
  • Solution: Research reputable brands with strong formulation expertise. Look for products packaged in opaque or dark glass to protect light-sensitive ingredients.
• "Greenwashing": The lack of strict regulation meant some brands deceptively marketed themselves as "natural" or "clean" while still using undesirable ingredients.
  • Solution: Empower yourself by learning to read ingredient labels and recognizing common problematic ingredients. Stick to trusted brands known for their transparency.
• Cost: High-quality natural and organic ingredients, along with ethical sourcing, often translated to higher product prices.
  • Solution: View it as an investment in your skin and health. Prioritize key products (e.g., serum or treatment) where high-quality ingredients matter most, and find more affordable natural alternatives for basics like cleansers.
• Availability: While growing, natural skincare wasn’t as ubiquitous as conventional brands, especially outside of major cities or specialized retailers.
  • Solution: Online shopping became a primary avenue for accessing these brands, alongside growing sections in retailers like Sephora and Credo Beauty.

Best Natural Skin Care Brands 2018: Representative Price Table

Below is a representative price table for popular products from the best natural skincare brands of 2018. Prices are approximate and reflect typical retail costs in USD at the time.

Brand Name	Example Product	Typical Size	Approximate 2018 Price Range (USD)	Key Natural Feature/Benefit
Drunk Elephant	C-Firma Day Serum	30 ml	$80 – $85	"Suspicious 6" free, potent Vitamin C, clean clinical formulations.
Tata Harper	Resurfacing Mask	30 ml	$60 – $65	100% natural & non-toxic, farm-to-face, multi-active botanicals, AHA/BHA exfoliation.
Herbivore Botanicals	Pink Cloud Rosewater Moisture Creme	50 ml	$45 – $48	Minimalist, plant-based, aesthetically pleasing, natural hydration.
Pai Skincare	Rosehip Bioregenerate Oil	30 ml	$40 – $44	Certified organic, formulated for sensitive & reactive skin, pure rosehip oil.
Youth to the People	Superfood Antioxidant Cleanser	237 ml	$34 – $36	Superfood extracts (kale, spinach, green tea), cold-pressed ingredients, vegan.
Indie Lee	CoQ-10 Toner	125 ml	$34 – $36	Non-toxic, simple yet effective formulas, antioxidant-rich, hydrating.
Drunk Elephant	Protini Polypeptide Cream	50 ml	$65 – $68	Amino acids, signal peptides, supports skin barrier, "clean clinical".
Tata Harper	Regenerating Cleanser	50 ml	$42 – $45	Gentle physical exfoliation, nourishing ingredients, non-foaming.
Herbivore Botanicals	Lapis Facial Oil	50 ml	$70 – $72	Blue Tansy (anti-inflammatory), balancing for oily/acne-prone skin, luxurious feel.
Pai Skincare	Camellia & Rose Gentle Hydrating Cleanser	150 ml	$40 – $42	Creamy, non-foaming, ideal for very sensitive skin, certified organic.
Youth to the People	Superberry Hydrate + Glow Oil	30 ml	$44 – $48	Adaptogenic berries, squalane, hydrating and brightening, antioxidant-rich.
Indie Lee	Squalane Facial Oil	30 ml	$34 – $36	Pure plant-derived squalane, lightweight, non-comedogenic, deeply hydrating.

Note: Prices are estimates based on typical retail pricing in 2018 and may vary slightly depending on the retailer and specific promotions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Natural Skincare in 2018

Q1: Is "natural" skincare truly better for my skin?
A1: For many, yes. Natural skincare often contains fewer synthetic chemicals, fragrances, and dyes, which can be irritating or allergenic. This can lead to reduced inflammation, fewer breakouts, and overall healthier skin for some individuals. However, "natural" doesn’t automatically mean "better" for everyone; individual skin reactions vary.

Q2: Do natural products work as effectively as conventional ones?
A2: Absolutely. By 2018, natural skincare had evolved significantly, with brands utilizing advanced botanical science and extraction methods. Many natural ingredients (like Vitamin C from plant sources, hyaluronic acid, plant oils, and potent antioxidants) are highly effective at addressing various skin concerns, often with fewer side effects than some synthetic ingredients.

Q3: How long do natural skincare products typically last?
A3: Due to fewer synthetic preservatives, natural products often have a shorter shelf life than conventional ones, typically 6-12 months once opened. Always check the "Period After Opening" (PAO) symbol on the packaging, which indicates how many months the product is good for once opened.

Q4: What "unnatural" ingredients should I have been avoiding in 2018?
A4: In 2018, common ingredients to avoid included parabens (methyl-, propyl-, butyl-), sulfates (SLS, SLES), phthalates, synthetic fragrances (often listed simply as "fragrance" or "parfum"), mineral oil, silicones (e.g., dimethicone), PEGs, and artificial dyes.

Q5: How should I store my natural skincare products?
A5: To maximize shelf life and potency, store natural skincare products in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperature fluctuations. Some delicate formulations, especially those without strong preservatives, might even benefit from refrigeration after opening.

Q6: Are natural skincare products always more expensive?
A6: While high-quality, ethically sourced natural ingredients can increase costs, the market in 2018 offered a range of price points. Luxury natural brands existed, but more accessible options were also emerging, allowing consumers to find products that fit their budget.

Conclusion

The year 2018 represented a pivotal moment in the evolution of skincare, solidifying the demand for natural and clean beauty. Brands like Drunk Elephant, Tata Harper, Herbivore Botanicals, Pai Skincare, Youth to the People, and Indie Lee led the charge, proving that efficacy, luxury, and ethical responsibility could coexist in the beauty industry.

Embracing natural skincare in 2018 was more than just a trend; it was a conscious decision to prioritize skin health, environmental well-being, and ingredient transparency. By understanding what defined "natural" at the time, recognizing the benefits, and making informed choices, consumers were empowered to curate skincare routines that were not only effective but also aligned with a holistic and mindful lifestyle. The foundations laid in 2018 continue to shape the clean beauty movement we know today, emphasizing that true beauty starts with purity and intention.