"Green Outlooks: the Billion Dollar Trend of going Natural"

The natural beauty and skincare market has been growing steadily in recent years. Consumers are becoming more aware of the potential health and environmental risks associated with synthetic chemicals and are seeking out natural and organic products as a safer and more sustainable alternative. And there is good reason for doing so. Just have a look at the label of a beauty product you have purchased recently. It is overwhelming to see all the chemicals on those labels.

Let's review some examples of harmful chemicals that are commonly found in skincare products: * Parabens: These are preservatives used in many skincare products to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold. However, they have been linked to hormone disruption and have been found in breast cancer tumors.

* Phthalates: These are chemicals that are used to soften and increase the flexibility of plastics. They are often found in fragrance, but also in some skincare products. They have been linked to hormone disruption, reproductive problems, and developmental issues.

* Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES): These are foaming agents that are often found in shampoos, body washes, and facial cleansers. They can be harsh on the skin and strip away natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation.

* Formaldehyde: This is a preservative that is sometimes used in skincare products. It has been linked to cancer and can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions.

* Synthetic fragrances: These are artificial fragrances that are often used in skincare products to improve the scent. However, they can cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, and can even be toxic.

With growing awareness about the potential harm that these diverse collection of chemicals in skincare products can cause, many people are turning to more natural-based skincare products and procedures.

Besides, consumers are increasingly looking for products that are produced in a sustainable and ethical manner. Natural beauty products tend to be more environmentally friendly and often have a lower environmental impact than their traditional counterparts.

Also worth mentioning is the growing preference for vegan and cruelty-free products: Many consumers are now looking for beauty products that are vegan and cruelty-free. Greener beauty products tend to be more aligned with these values as they often contain plant-based ingredients and are not tested on animals.

And lastly there is the fact that natural beauty industry has grown significantly in recent years, so there are now more options available than ever before. Consumers have a wider range of products to choose from, making it easier for them to switch to more organic or natural products.

With the increase of diverse skin conditions (often caused by the numerous chemicals readily available in today's households) natural ingredients are now better acknowledged as being much more gentle on the skin. They are much less likely to cause irritation, allergies, or other adverse reactions. Many people find that natural skincare products and procedures can provide a more holistic approach to skin health, improving not just the appearance but also the overall health of the skin.

Not surprisingly, the natural skincare market is highly competitive and has seen a surge in the number of new brands entering the market in recent years. New brands are emerging constantly, with a large number of small and medium-sized enterprises competing with established players.

According to a report by Grand View Research, the global organic personal care market size was valued at USD 13.33 billion in 2020 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.9% from 2021 to 2028.The increasing popularity of vegan and cruelty-free products is also driving growth in this market.

The recent COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the trend towards natural and clean beauty as well, as consumers have become more health-conscious and are paying greater attention to the ingredients in the products they use. This has led to an increase in demand for products containing natural and organic ingredients, as well as those that are free from potentially harmful substances.

In conclusion, this underscores a fundamental change in consumer preferences, emphasizing a health-conscious approach and a heightened awareness of product ingredients.