Best Natural Skin Care Brands 2019: A Comprehensive Guide to Nurturing Your Skin Naturally

Best Natural Skin Care Brands 2019: A Comprehensive Guide to Nurturing Your Skin Naturally cars.truckstrend.com

The year 2019 marked a significant turning point in the beauty industry. Consumers, increasingly aware of what they put into and onto their bodies, began demanding greater transparency and efficacy from their skincare products. This burgeoning awareness fueled an unprecedented surge in the popularity of natural skincare. No longer a niche market, natural skincare in 2019 became a mainstream movement, promising a return to simpler, purer ingredients and a rejection of synthetic chemicals, harsh additives, and unsustainable practices.

But what exactly defines "natural" in the complex world of beauty, and why was 2019 a pivotal year for these brands? It was a period where "clean beauty" started to solidify as a concept, pushing brands to not just be "natural" but also ethically sourced, cruelty-free, and environmentally conscious. For many, choosing natural skincare became an act of self-care and environmental stewardship, driven by the belief that ingredients derived from nature could offer potent, gentle, and effective solutions for a myriad of skin concerns. This guide aims to navigate the vibrant landscape of natural skincare in 2019, highlighting the best brands that truly stood out, offering practical advice, and addressing common queries for anyone looking to embrace a more natural approach to their skin health.

Best Natural Skin Care Brands 2019: A Comprehensive Guide to Nurturing Your Skin Naturally

The Green Revolution: Why Natural Skincare Peaked in 2019

The shift towards natural skincare wasn’t merely a trend in 2019; it was a reflection of evolving consumer values. After years of exposure to complex chemical formulations, many individuals experienced sensitivities, allergies, or simply felt disconnected from products whose ingredient lists read like a chemistry textbook. Natural skincare offered a refreshing alternative, emphasizing:

• Reduced Irritation: Products formulated with ingredients found in nature often contain fewer synthetic fragrances, dyes, parabens, phthalates, and sulfates – common culprits for skin irritation, redness, and allergic reactions.
• Nutrient-Rich Formulations: Natural ingredients like botanical extracts, plant oils, and essential oils are often packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids that nourish the skin deeply.
• Environmental Consciousness: Many natural brands prioritize sustainable sourcing, eco-friendly packaging, and cruelty-free testing, appealing to consumers looking to minimize their ecological footprint.
• Holistic Wellness: For many, natural skincare aligns with a broader lifestyle choice focused on wellness, mindfulness, and a connection to nature.

By 2019, the market had matured, moving beyond simple, DIY-style natural products to sophisticated, scientifically backed formulations that harnessed the power of nature without compromising on performance. This year saw natural brands stepping up their game, proving that "clean" could also be "effective."

Decoding "Natural": What to Look For (and Avoid) in 2019

The term "natural" can be a marketing buzzword, and "greenwashing" – where brands misleadingly portray their products as environmentally friendly or natural – was a significant concern in 2019. To truly identify authentic natural skincare, consumers needed to become label detectives.

Key Indicators of Truly Natural Skincare:

• Ingredient Lists: Look for ingredients that are recognizable, plant-derived, and minimally processed. Common beneficial natural ingredients include:
  • Plant Oils: Jojoba, argan, rosehip, marula, coconut, olive, sunflower.
  • Butters: Shea butter, cocoa butter, mango butter.
  • Essential Oils: Lavender, tea tree, frankincense, chamomile (used sparingly and appropriately).

  

  • Botanical Extracts: Green tea, calendula, aloe vera, chamomile.
  • Natural Humectants: Hyaluronic acid (naturally derived), glycerin.
  • Clays: Kaolin, bentonite.
• Certifications: While not all natural brands were certified, those that were provided an extra layer of assurance. Looked for certifications from reputable bodies like:
  • USDA Organic: For products containing organic agricultural ingredients.
  • ECOCERT/COSMOS: European standards for organic and natural cosmetics.
  • Leaping Bunny/PETA Certified: For cruelty-free practices.
  • B Corp Certification: Indicating high standards of verified social and environmental performance, public transparency, and legal accountability.
• Transparency: Reputable natural brands were transparent about their sourcing, manufacturing processes, and ingredient origins. Their websites often provided detailed explanations.

Ingredients to Avoid (Commonly Found in Conventional Products but Absent in True Natural Skincare):

• Parabens: (e.g., methylparaben, propylparaben) – Preservatives linked to hormone disruption.
• Phthalates: (e.g., diethyl phthalate) – Often found in fragrances, associated with endocrine disruption.
• Sulfates: (e.g., SLS, SLES) – Harsh cleansing agents that can strip skin of natural oils.
• Synthetic Fragrances/Perfumes: Can cause allergies and irritation. Look for "fragrance-free" or products scented with natural essential oils (with caution).
• Synthetic Dyes: Artificial colors derived from petroleum.
• PEGs (Polyethylene Glycols): Petroleum-based compounds that can be contaminated with harmful byproducts.
• Mineral Oil/Petroleum Jelly: Petroleum-derived ingredients that can clog pores.
• Formaldehyde-releasing Preservatives: (e.g., DMDM hydantoin) – Potential carcinogens.

Top Natural Skincare Brands of 2019: A Closer Look

In 2019, several brands rose to prominence, solidifying their reputation as leaders in the natural and clean beauty space. These brands excelled not just in their ingredient philosophy but also in product efficacy, user experience, and ethical commitments.

1. Tata Harper: A pioneer in "farm-to-face" skincare, Tata Harper was a luxury natural brand that truly delivered. Based on an organic farm in Vermont, their products were handcrafted in small batches using high concentrations of natural and organic ingredients, often featuring complex botanical blends. Their Rejuvenating Serum and Resurfacing Mask were cult favorites, known for their powerful anti-aging and glow-boosting effects without synthetic chemicals.

   • Key Philosophy: 100% natural and non-toxic, potent concentrations, farm-to-face.

2. Drunk Elephant: While not 100% natural in the strictest sense (they did use some synthetic ingredients), Drunk Elephant became a sensation in 2019 for popularizing the "clean clinical" approach. They famously avoided the "Suspicious 6" (essential oils, drying alcohols, silicones, chemical sunscreens, fragrances/dyes, SLS), focusing instead on bio-compatible ingredients that support skin health. Their C-Firma Day Serum and Protini Polypeptide Cream were highly sought after for their effective, non-irritating formulations.

   • Key Philosophy: "Clean clinical," biocompatible ingredients, avoiding irritants.

3. Herbivore Botanicals: Known for its minimalist aesthetic and plant-based formulations, Herbivore Botanicals offered a beautiful and effective entry point into natural skincare. Their products were often vibrant in color due to natural ingredients and free from synthetic additives. The Lapis Facial Oil (for oily/acne-prone skin) and Phoenix Rosehip Anti-Aging Face Oil were hugely popular, harnessing the power of botanical oils.

   • Key Philosophy: Plant-based, minimalistic, aesthetically pleasing, natural ingredients.

4. Indie Lee: Founded on a personal journey towards health and wellness, Indie Lee was a beloved brand in 2019 for its commitment to truly clean, non-toxic beauty. Their products were formulated without parabens, phthalates, synthetic fragrance, and other known harmful ingredients, focusing on potent plant extracts and oils. The CoQ10 Toner and Squalane Facial Oil were standout products, offering gentle yet effective solutions.

   • Key Philosophy: Clean, non-toxic, plant-powered, transparency.

5. Pai Skincare: Especially lauded for sensitive and allergy-prone skin, UK-based Pai Skincare gained significant traction in 2019 for its certified organic and cruelty-free formulations. They cultivated their own organic ingredients and were incredibly transparent about their sourcing. Their Rosehip Bioregenerate Oil was a multi-award winner, celebrated for its ability to improve skin tone, texture, and elasticity.

   • Key Philosophy: Certified organic, designed for sensitive skin, highly transparent.

6. Biossance: While leveraging biotechnology, Biossance was firmly in the "clean beauty" camp in 2019, focusing on ethically and sustainably sourced squalane (derived from sugarcane, a superior alternative to shark liver squalane) as its hero ingredient. Their products were highly effective, non-toxic, and vegan. The Squalane + Vitamin C Rose Oil and Squalane + Omega Repair Cream were bestsellers, praised for their hydrating and brightening properties.

   • Key Philosophy: Sustainable biotechnology, non-toxic, vegan, focus on squalane.

7. Weleda: A long-standing pioneer in natural and organic skincare, Weleda’s popularity saw a resurgence in 2019 as consumers rediscovered its authentic, time-tested formulations. Founded in 1921, Weleda has always been committed to biodynamic farming and sustainable practices. Their Skin Food cream became a cult favorite for its intensely nourishing properties, and their body care lines were widely appreciated for their natural efficacy and lovely scents.

   • Key Philosophy: Over 90 years of natural heritage, biodynamic farming, authentic natural ingredients, affordability.

Choosing Your Ideal Natural Skincare Routine in 2019

Navigating the array of natural brands could be overwhelming. Here’s how to approach building your natural skincare routine, with advice relevant to 2019:

1. Identify Your Skin Type and Concerns: Whether you had oily, dry, combination, sensitive, or acne-prone skin, understanding your unique needs was the first step. Natural brands often offered specific lines for different concerns.
2. Start Slow and Patch Test: Introduce one new natural product at a time. Apply a small amount to an inconspicuous area (like behind the ear or on the inner forearm) for 24-48 hours to check for any adverse reactions, especially with essential oil-heavy products.
3. Read Ingredient Labels Diligently: As discussed, don’t just rely on marketing claims. Look for the actual ingredients. A shorter, more recognizable list was often better.
4. Consider Your Budget: Natural skincare ranged from affordable (e.g., Weleda) to luxury (e.g., Tata Harper, Vintner’s Daughter). Determine what you’re willing to invest.
5. Prioritize Your Values: If cruelty-free, vegan, or specific organic certifications were important to you, seek out brands that aligned with those principles.
6. Build a Core Routine:
   • Cleanse: A gentle, natural cleanser (oil, cream, or gel-based).
   • Treat (Optional): Serums or targeted treatments for specific concerns.
   • Moisturize: A natural face oil, cream, or balm.
   • Protect: A mineral-based sunscreen (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) was the natural choice.

Navigating the Natural Skincare Landscape: Tips and Challenges

While natural skincare offered numerous benefits, consumers in 2019 also learned to navigate some unique considerations:

• Shorter Shelf Life: Without harsh synthetic preservatives, natural products often had a shorter shelf life (typically 6-12 months after opening). Check the PAO (Period After Opening) symbol – an open jar icon with a number inside.
• Storage: Many natural products, especially those rich in plant oils, benefited from being stored in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures, to prevent oxidation.
• Potential for Allergic Reactions: "Natural" doesn’t mean "allergy-proof." Some individuals could be sensitive to essential oils, nut oils, or specific botanical extracts. Patch testing was crucial.
• Consistency and Scent: Natural products might have different textures or scents compared to their synthetic counterparts. Scents were derived from natural essential oils, not artificial fragrances.
• Efficacy Expectations: While highly effective, natural products might not deliver instant, dramatic results like some synthetic alternatives. Consistency and patience were key.

Conclusion: The Lasting Impact of 2019’s Natural Skincare Boom

The year 2019 was a watershed moment for natural skincare. It cemented its place not as a fleeting trend, but as a robust and continually evolving segment of the beauty industry. Consumers became more educated, brands became more transparent, and the line between "natural" and "effective" blurred as innovative formulations proved that you didn’t need harsh chemicals for visible results.

The brands highlighted in 2019 paved the way for the "clean beauty" movement that continues to dominate today. By embracing these leading natural skincare brands, consumers in 2019 took a significant step towards healthier skin, more conscious consumption, and a deeper appreciation for the powerful gifts of nature. It was a year that truly redefined what it meant to care for your skin, setting a precedent for purity, performance, and purpose.

Best Natural Skin Care Brands 2019 – Representative Price Table

Note: Prices are approximate and based on typical 2019 retail values in USD for common product sizes. Actual prices may vary based on retailer, specific product, and promotions.

Brand Name	Key Product Example	Typical Price Range (USD, 2019)	Special Feature/Note
Tata Harper	Rejuvenating Serum (1 oz)	$118 – $160	Luxury, "farm-to-face," high concentration of botanicals, organic farm-grown.
Drunk Elephant	C-Firma Day Serum (1 oz)	$78 – $80	"Clean clinical" approach, avoids "Suspicious 6," effective formulations.
Herbivore Botanicals	Lapis Facial Oil (1.7 oz)	$68 – $72	Plant-based, minimalist aesthetic, focus on botanical oils.
Indie Lee	Squalane Facial Oil (1 oz)	$34 – $38	Truly clean, non-toxic, plant-powered, transparent.
Pai Skincare	Rosehip Bioregenerate Oil (1 oz)	$38 – $44	Certified organic, specifically formulated for sensitive skin, ethical sourcing.
Biossance	Squalane + Vitamin C Rose Oil (1 oz)	$72 – $74	Biotech-driven clean beauty, sustainable sugarcane squalane, vegan.
Weleda	Skin Food Original Ultra-Rich Cream (2.5 oz)	$12 – $19	Long-standing natural heritage, biodynamic farming, highly affordable, versatile.
True Botanicals	Renew Chebula Active Immunity Serum (1 oz)	$90 – $110	High-performance, certified toxic-free, focus on effective natural ingredients.
REN Clean Skincare	Evercalm Global Protection Day Cream (1.7 oz)	$45 – $50	"Clean" pioneer, free from synthetic ingredients, good for sensitive skin.
Kora Organics	Noni Glow Face Oil (1 oz)	$48 – $50	Certified organic, founded by Miranda Kerr, focus on superfoods for skin.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Best Natural Skin Care Brands 2019

Q1: Is "natural" always better for my skin?
A1: Not necessarily. While many natural ingredients offer excellent benefits, "natural" doesn’t automatically mean "better" or "safer." Some natural ingredients can still cause allergies or irritation in certain individuals (e.g., essential oils). Conversely, some synthetic ingredients are perfectly safe and effective. The key is to look for well-formulated products, natural or otherwise, that suit your skin type and concerns.

Q2: How can I tell if a brand is truly natural and not "greenwashing"?
A2: In 2019, this was a major concern. Look beyond marketing claims. Check the ingredient list for recognizable plant-derived components and minimal synthetic additives. Look for third-party certifications (like USDA Organic, Ecocert, Leaping Bunny). Reputable natural brands are transparent about their sourcing, manufacturing, and ingredient philosophy.

Q3: Do natural skincare products expire faster than conventional ones?
A3: Generally, yes. Because natural products often contain fewer or milder synthetic preservatives, their shelf life after opening is typically shorter (often 6-12 months). Always check the "period after opening" (PAO) symbol on the packaging, which looks like an open jar with a number (e.g., "6M" for 6 months). Proper storage in a cool, dark place can help extend their life.

Q4: Can I be allergic to natural ingredients?
A4: Absolutely. Just like with synthetic ingredients, some people can be sensitive or allergic to natural components like specific essential oils, nut oils, or botanical extracts (e.g., chamomile, lavender). Always perform a patch test on a small area of skin before applying a new natural product to your entire face or body.

Q5: Are natural skincare products less effective than conventional ones?
A5: Not anymore, especially by 2019. While earlier natural products might have been less potent, many of the leading natural brands in 2019 invested heavily in research and development to create highly effective, scientifically-backed formulations. They utilized concentrated plant extracts, stable vitamin forms, and innovative delivery systems to ensure performance comparable to or even surpassing conventional products. Patience and consistent use are often key to seeing results with natural products.

Q6: Are natural skincare products always more expensive?
A6: The price range for natural skincare in 2019 was broad. Some brands, particularly those focused on luxury, high concentrations of rare ingredients, or extensive organic certifications, were at a higher price point (e.g., Tata Harper). However, many accessible and effective natural brands (like Weleda or Indie Lee) offered excellent value, making natural skincare an option for various budgets.