100% organic, but not 100% compatible? This question was recently discussed again in the media. Naturally, the 48grams blog team received inquiries from customers as a result. The sentiment: That can't be right. Therefore, we decided to address this topic (again). After all, our company philosophy is based on producing and selling only products that are 100% organic. Since our colleague Laura is the expert on allergies and allergens, she's sharing her knowledge exclusively today.
Gentle and environmentally friendly
I've mentioned it many times before: I love natural cosmetics. I want the best results, but not at the cost of my skin suffering later. Artificial ingredients may offer a quick "wow" effect, but the rude awakening is practically guaranteed. That's why I only recommend natural products. And even then, the result isn't always positive.
From conventional skincare to natural cosmetics
The transition from conventional facial care to natural cosmetics isn't always easy. On average, 5 out of 100 users report skin reactions such as redness, dryness, or irritation in the first four weeks after switching. These side effects are usually not a sign of intolerance, but rather an indication that the skin needs time to adjust to the new ingredients. Let's call it what it is: the tissue is undergoing a kind of detoxification process. It's reacting to the absence of familiar chemical substances and needs time to adapt to the natural alternatives. These reactions may be unpleasant, but they are a necessary step on the path to healthier and more resilient skin.
The role of the immune system
Plant-based ingredients used in natural cosmetics have many benefits. They can soothe tissue, provide moisture, and promote cell regeneration. However, despite these positive properties, they can (rarely) trigger allergic reactions. In rare cases, the immune system reacts to certain natural substances and recognizes them as undesirable. It is important to take these signs seriously; however, this is not a cause for concern.
Different types of skin allergies
Skin allergies triggered by cosmetic products can be divided into two main categories: contact allergies and cosmetic allergies. Contact allergies appear immediately. They manifest as instant reactions (such as redness or swelling) at the point of contact. Cosmetic allergies, on the other hand, appear with a delay. It can take hours or even a day for the consequences to become visible. However, both types of allergy have the same origin: The immune system recognizes an ingredient as potentially harmful and reacts by producing antibodies. This defense reaction leads to the visible symptoms.
Changes over time
Another interesting fact is that skin reactions can change over time. A product that has been well-tolerated for years can suddenly trigger allergies. The reason is usually overuse. The result is therefore a gradual form of allergy.
The importance of the ingredients
When buying cosmetic products, it is crucial to take a close look at the ingredients. Terms like "hypoallergenic," "plant-based," or "natural" are often part of the marketing and do not necessarily guarantee better tolerability.As a general rule, the fewer ingredients a product contains, the lower the likelihood of an allergic reaction. Brands like 48grams (yes, a little self-promotion is allowed) rely on a reduced number of active ingredients and use skin-identical fats and oligo-hyaluronic acid to minimize allergenic potential. These substances are familiar to the body and are generally well-tolerated.
Tip 1 to avoid skin reactions
For people prone to skin reactions, it is advisable to perform a self-test before using a new product. To do this, apply a small dab of the product to the inside of your elbow or wrist. These areas of skin are similarly sensitive to facial skin. If no irritation occurs within 24 hours, the product can generally be used without concern.
Tip 2 for avoiding skin reactions
Another tip is to gradually integrate new products into your skincare routine. Start with a small amount and gradually increase the application. This gives your skin time to adjust.
