Should you trust Russian natural cosmetics? Ethical decorative cosmetics. Which brand should you choose? Anti-aging day cream LiftActiv Collagen Specialist, Vichy

An attractive and well-groomed appearance is the dream of every woman. However, purchasing a cosmetic product that is ideal in all respects for your skin is not at all easy.

Review of the best Russian and foreign cosmetics manufacturers

The production of cosmetics today has reached a high level. It's easy to get confused among the variety of countless cosmetics manufacturing companies. Therefore, it is worth understanding which brands occupy the first positions in the global market.

It's easy to get confused among the variety of countless cosmetics manufacturing companies.

A survey among Russian consumers about which cosmetics are considered the best allowed us to compile the following rating.

So, The choice of Russian women fell on the following brands:

• German "Nivea";
• Swiss made "Oriflame";
• Belarusian cosmetics;
• Maybelline;
• "L'Oreal";
• Faberlic.

True, many people prefer domestic cosmetics.

Compiled especially for such consumers. top five Russian manufacturers:

1. The Natura Siberika company has proven itself to be of good quality.
2. Next comes “Clean Line”.
3. "Black Pearl".
4. "Red line".
5. "One hundred beauty recipes."

Despite the popularity of this or that cosmetic product, it is necessary to choose it strictly following individual characteristics body.

Only then will it give a good result.

Cosmetical tools direct sales are different in that they can only be purchased from company representatives. In addition, they have a large assortment.

These can be hair care products, body care products, perfumes, for both women and men, and children. The well-known brands “Avon” and “Oriflame” top the ranking position, followed by “Amway”, “Mary Kay” and the Russian-French brand “Faberlic”.

Advantages and disadvantages of natural and artificial cosmetics

Preparing such products does not take much time., does not require large financial expenditures.

But even the natural ingredients included in homemade masks, balms and creams have drawbacks.

In order to find out which natural home cosmetics are the best, there is no need to make a rating. A person usually knows all the components that make up a miracle remedy.

Advantages of natural products:

Disadvantages of natural cosmetics:

• high purchase price if the production technology involves the extraction of natural components;
• packaging and design are inconspicuous, as the emphasis is on the composition of the product;
• short shelf life of homemade natural cosmetics.

Carefully!

At the same time, a considerable number of women regularly use artificial cosmetics.

The main advantages of such artificial cosmetics:

Significant disadvantages that you should pay attention to when choosing the right product:

1. Expired cosmetics are extremely dangerous to health.
2. Low-quality cosmetics can cause irritation and allergies.
3. High price.

There is no universal cosmetics that is suitable for every woman. At the same time, you can choose the ideal balms, shampoo, cream just for yourself.

Choosing cosmetics depending on the purpose

The selection of cosmetics is usually complicated by its direct purpose. Some girls are reviewing reviews of the most popular skin moisturizers, others want to hide the imperfections of problematic epidermis, and still others are trying to get rid of wrinkles and age-related changes.

You can listen to the advice of relatives, friends and acquaintances, but the ratings on the Internet certainly won’t lie about which cosmetics are the best.

Moisturizing cosmetics will eliminate itching, flaking, and red spots on the skin. When choosing a cream, you usually pay attention to its texture so that it is easy to apply, quickly absorbed and does not leave an oily sheen, but at the same time moisturizes the skin.

Creams in demand:

Anti-aging products should include hyaluronic acid and other important components that make the skin elastic, tightened, reduce wrinkles and slow down the aging process.

Most effective means considered anti-aging:

• Nuxellence Jeunesse (France);
• Nuxe (France);
• Hydra Beauty (France);
• Chanel (France);
• Aqualabel (France);
• Shiceido (Japan).

Any body, face, or hair care product has side effects. Therefore, you need to carefully study the composition before use.

Any body, face, or hair care product has side effects. Therefore, you need to carefully study the composition before use.

Moreover anti-aging cream selected for a specific age category.

Cosmetics market for problem skin quite rich.

This rating will tell you which product is the best:

All components included in the preparations are aimed at reducing rashes, blackheads and narrowing pores. A sales consultant will always help you buy good cosmetics.

Components of the cost of cosmetics

In pursuit of beauty, women can easily pay huge sums of money for a jar of purchased balm or tube of cream. However, lovely ladies want to know whether the cost of cosmetics is justified and what components are used to set the price.

Eventually, The constituent aspects of the price are:

1. Investment in product technology. This category includes the premises for releasing the product, the salary of the developer, and equipment. Also testing the product. The costs are at least 4-8%.
2. Useful components of cosmetics. Packaging costs.
3. Transportation.
4. Payment of utility services.
5. Salary of working personnel.
6. Costs for brand promotion and advertising.

And this is quite full list all costs for the production of quality products. The price of the product is raised at the point of sale(shop, supermarket, pharmacy).

On average, if you pay 600 rubles for the purchase of a cream, this means that its original price for a foreign manufacturer was 160 rubles, and for a Russian one 330 rubles.

This phenomenon occurs due to the fact that foreign companies focus on selling the product, and not on its composition.

Are expensive cosmetics really the best quality?

There has long been an opinion that supposedly expensive cosmetics have a better positive effect on hair, skin, and nails in comparison with cheap products. Undoubtedly, expensive packaging attracts the attention of women, and they are happy to buy these cosmetics.

Advantages of expensive products:

1. Higher quality components in the substance (oils, vitamins).
2. Parabens and mineral oils are not used to avoid allergies.
3. The cost increases due to packaging material and brand promotion.

Disadvantages of expensive cosmetics:

Research has shown that cheap cosmetics can be quite high quality. The product has a low cost due to natural ingredients and low costs for packaging, transportation, and formula development.

Rules for choosing cosmetics

A large assortment of various cosmetics is sold in pharmacies, supermarkets, and online stores. However, its quality may vary.

If you still need to purchase a cosmetic product without outside help, then it is advised to adhere to certain rules.

Firstly, answering the question about which cosmetics are the best, we can confidently say that they were purchased at a pharmacy, and it is unlikely that this will be mentioned in the ratings.

Online stores and other dubious retail chains are simply overflowing with fakes.

You must read the label carefully. It is better to give preference to a product with a short shelf life

Third, It is not recommended to buy products with a strong, poisonous odor or alcohol content. In addition, the best time for such purchases is during the day, as in the time of day. Under artificial lighting, important details may be missed.

High-quality cosmetics require the presence of samples.

Every day, hundreds of online publications and printed material compile ratings of the highest quality and safest cosmetic products in the world. However, such ratings can be paid for; as a result, the information will not be true, but paid for.

That's why when choosing cosmetics it is better to rely on your own strength and the practice of using this or that means.

From this video you will learn how to properly store professional cosmetics.

This video will tell you a lot of useful information regarding professional cosmetics, as well as their brands.

In this video you will see which cosmetics are best to choose for starting work with professional cosmetics.

Ecology of life. Health and beauty: Every woman at some periods of her life probably used the most expensive systems of cosmetic products, strictly following all the advice of cosmetologist consultants. How many women can claim that after six months, or after a year of strictly following the recommendations for the use of cosmetic products, their skin has at least visually changed in better side?

Every woman at some periods of her life probably used the most expensive systems of cosmetic products, strictly following all the advice of cosmetologist consultants. How many women can claim that after six months, or after a year of strictly following the recommendations for the use of cosmetic products, their skin has at least visually changed for the better? Most likely, few. In the morning, without cream and decorative cosmetics, we are all disappointed to note the inexorable fact of aging of our skin.

Most modern cosmetics (fatty creams, lotions and gels) affect only the epidermis, that is, the upper 0.1 mm of our skin, and often damage normal microflora - friendly skin bacteria - and epithelial cells with preservatives.

Such cosmetics do more harm than good, especially if the skin is problematic - excessively dry or oily, if it has begun to age prematurely, the first wrinkles or acne have appeared. Therefore, many are now returning to their grandmother’s recipes: they cleanse the skin with clay and yogurt, wash their hair with mustard or egg, and rinse with water and lemon or herbal infusions, etc.

Our skin does not have to endure the crimes that we commit every day: WE FEED THE SKIN WITH PRESERVATIVES!!!

Which of the unpronounceable ingredients in beauty products are detrimental to our health? We want to clear this up and highlight some non-toxic lines organic cosmetics.

A recent survey has revealed the true extent of concerns about chemicals in cosmetics and toiletries in Everyday life of people. A survey carried out by Neal's Yard Remedies in response to Channel 4's Beauty Addicts: How Toxic are You? cosmetic brands and showed that 99% of consumers want clarity of information.

As surprising as it may sound, the average woman uses 12 beauty products every day and applies about 175 chemicals to her body. Most products contain a long list of ingredients, many of which have unpronounceable names - much less the reason or merit behind them being there.

According to INCI (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients), each component of a product must have its own name.

The names of even natural ingredients accepted by INCI are often horrific, making the names of common ingredients sound like foreign, unintelligible words. Most natural brands, including A"kin, have begun to place the usual familiar ingredient names in square brackets, not far from the standard INCI name.

With the approval of the European Union, almost all cosmetic products are safe, but there is an undeniable questionable link of the presence of chemicals that cause allergic reactions, skin sensitivity and even cancer.

Once it was suggested that if a cosmetic product is not absorbed into the skin, then the quality of the product should be doubted. However, it has now become known that the skin absorbs absolutely all products placed on it. All ingredients penetrate and are absorbed into the deep layers of the skin, but some of them can be toxic to humans and their bodies.

Plus, cosmetic products are designed to retain their properties for several years, and for this reason they contain a large number of preservatives.

So which ingredients, often called "bad heroes", should you avoid?

Propylene glycol
It is a humectant and solvent used in cosmetics, hair products, deodorants, aftershave lotions and toothpastes. It is also the main element of antifreeze and brake fluids - it is not surprising that it is a strong causative agent of allergic reactions.

Sodium lauryl/laureth sulfate
This solid ingredient is found in toothpastes and shampoos, not to mention personal cleansing products. At concentrations as low as 2 – 5%, it can cause skin irritation and inflammation, and some reports may cause eye disorders, skin rashes, dandruff and allergic reactions. For products that do not contain this component, you can try Alterna and Daniel Galvin Junior.

Formaldehyde (formaldehyde)
Formaldehyde is most often found in bubble baths, shampoos, moisturizing lotions and many other products. However, this powerful chemical is known to be carcinogenic and toxic. It readily penetrates the skin and can cause serious problems with health.

Parabens
Suggestions have been made that parabens, a type of preservative, can cause hormonal imbalance and even breast cancer. However, the involvement of parabens in deodorants has been proven to be unfounded. Therefore, in the cosmetic world, their properties have been overestimated, and now they are considered quite safe. For paraben-free brands, you can try Trilogy.

Mineral oil (mineral oils)
Mineral oils are very often added to various body lotions (baby oil is 100% mineral oil). They create a layer on the skin, like a plastic shell, so the skin is almost unable to breathe and get rid of toxins. And this encouragement of toxin accumulation can cause premature skin aging, acne, and other skin concerns.

Petrolatum (Vaseline)
This is a cheap mineral oil jelly. It can be allergenic, poorly absorbed and clog pores. In addition, Vaseline impedes the access of oxygen to the skin and can cause skin cracks and photosensitivity.

10 most dangerous components - read the label!

Stop being content with pseudo-natural cosmetics. Start reading labels and you will learn to recognize truly organic products among others. Here are substances that, according to Aubrey Hampton, founder of Aubrey Organics, are not desirable in cosmetics.

1. METHYL, PROPYL, BUTYL AND ETHYL PARABENS often used in products daily care as preservative stabilizers that inhibit the growth of microorganisms. They are absorbed by the skin and have a weak estrogenic effect, which is dangerous for women for whom estrogen is contraindicated (for breast cancer), as well as during pregnancy (causes pathologies in the reproductive function of the fetus).

2. DIETHANOLAMINE (DEA), TRIETHANOLAMINE (TEA, TEA)- foaming agents are classified as amines (containing ammonia). They have a toxic effect with prolonged use. May cause allergic reactions, eye irritation, dry skin and hair.

3. PROPYLENE GLYCOL (PPG), POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL (PEG)- a mixture of petrochemical products used as a hygroscopic ingredient. May cause hives and eczema.

4. SODIUM LAURUULAURETH SULFATE- a cheap and harmful detergent used in shampoos due to its cleansing and foaming properties. A petroleum product often disguised as "derived from coconuts." Causes eye irritation, flaking of the scalp similar to dandruff, skin rashes and other allergic reactions.

5. VASELINE (PETROLATUM)- a derivative of mineral oil, used as an emollient, widely used due to its incredible low cost. It disrupts natural hydration processes and causes exactly the condition that it is intended to eliminate: dry skin, cracking.

6. STEARALKONIUM CHLORIDE originally developed for fabric softeners, it later found use in hair conditioners and creams due to its low cost compared to plant extracts. Toxic, causes allergic reactions.

7. IAZOLIDINYL-UREA, IMIDAZOLIDINYL-UREA (DIAZOLIDINYL UREA, IMIDAZOLIDINYL UREA) used as preservatives, they release formaldehyde, which has a toxic effect. May cause contact dermatitis. Also known under the trade names: Germol II and Germol 115 (Germall II, Germall 115).

8. COPOLYMERS OF VINYL PYRROLIDONE AND VINY LACETATE (PVP/VA COPOLYMER)- derivatives of petroleum products, often used in hair styling products. They have a toxic effect on the lungs when particles are inhaled.

9. SYNTHETIC DYES- increase the attractiveness of cosmetics. Marked as FD&C or D&C followed by color and number. For example, FD&C Red No. 6 (red). Many synthetic dyes are carcinogenic. It is better to exclude it from use, regardless of cost.

10. SYNTHETIC FLAVORS labeled simply as "flavoring" but contain up to 200 chemical ingredients that may cause: headache, dizziness, rash, hyperpigmentation, cough, vomiting, skin irritation.

Signs of organic cosmetics

PACKAGE discreet and recyclable, usually free of glass and metal. Hence the principle: the more modest the packaging, the better its contents.

COLOR cosmetics are white (or colorless), because no dyes. Don't be tempted by bright, alluring colors.

SMELL rarely pleasant, usually "pharmacy" or medicinal herbal aroma. The exception is fruity and floral scents if the composition contains essential oils.

DUE TO LACK chemical thickeners and solvents, the liquid emulsion can separate into layers. Therefore, the bottle should be shaken vigorously before use.

LOW FOAM, because there are no foaming chemicals. This may be puzzling at first, but the lack of foam does not in any way detract from the cleaning and caring properties.

IF HIT Natural extracts in the eyes cause an acute burning sensation, which goes away immediately after rinsing with water.

ON THE LABEL A complete list of components is provided and the certificate is indicated. Organic companies are required to provide complete information when translating text. Peel off the Russian label and check the list on the tube.

Some brands of organic cosmetics

Organic Pharmacy

Organic Pharmacy is a brand dedicated to health and beauty, using only organic ingredients, aimed at offering only best products, containing no toxic ingredients. They are noted by the pharmaceutical society The Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain.

Ren

Ren are specialists in “clean” products to help achieve and maintain healthy skin. Their products are clinically approved and free of skin irritants such as synthetic fragrances, propylene glycol, petroleum products, sulfates, artificial colors, animal ingredients and parabens.

Nude

Nude contains no harmful chemicals and prevents the skin from absorbing ingredients such as parabens, sulfates, propylene glycol, PEGs, TEA, DEA, mineral oils, silicones and potential carcinogens. The products contain only organic ingredients that support healthy and beautiful skin.

Bare Escentuals

Bare Escentuals is the number one mineral beauty brand dedicated to improving skin health. Concealer, for example, consists of 100% pure minerals without the addition of preservatives, irritants, binders and other harmful components. According to the company, their cosmetics are "so clean, you could even sleep in them."

Juice Beauty

This brand is successful all over the world. From the organic skincare line, it's worth trying the incredible Green Apple Moisturizer, as well as the Green Apple Peel, a mask that improves skin clarity and texture.

Stella McCartney CARE

Fashion designer Stella McCartney, known for her vivid imagination and love of free style, decided to also delve into cosmetics. McCartney's cosmetic collection follows a similar philosophy: the products contain no ingredients of animal origin, synthetic preservatives or silicone. The line will consist of eight essential products: moisturizer, makeup remover foam, toning lotion, anti-age serum, etc. The main active ingredients of the brand are mallow, green tea, grape seed oil, flaxseed oil, soybean oil and rose oil. In addition, all products will be positioned as “unisex”.

Dr. Hauschka

A very popular German company, cosmetics, which many other manufacturers look up to. This brand produces a great variety natural remedies on medicinal herbs: from the Body Silk Powder moisturizing body spray, indispensable in frosty weather, to the Neel Oil Pen cuticle product, which improves the structure of nails and accelerates their growth.

Korres

The products of this Greek company are also famous in many parts of the world. For those who suffer from unruly hair, we recommend Korres Rice Protein Shampoo and Shea Butter Hair Mask. After using them, your hair will be shiny and soft.

Light Organic

This American brand uses vitamin E, carrot seed oil, rosemary and jojoba as preservatives, and makes its creams only by hand.

Patyka

This brand does the same; it has even developed a perfume that contains 25% natural essences, as opposed to 10-15% traditional ones, and alcohol from organic wheat, which does not prevent the aroma from changing and revealing throughout the day.

Organic Apoteke

This English brand invented organic perfume - without alcohol and fragrances. In addition, the brand’s arsenal includes everything for body and face care; the action of these cosmetics is based on the principles of Ayurveda and non-toxic components.

Ojon

Some plants are so excellent that entire brands are dedicated to them. This is what happened with Ojon, whose products return beauty and health to our hair. Ojon is a nut tree oil that was used by the Indians of pre-Columbian times. Today they mine it and also cultivate wonderful trees. The extracted raw materials are then sent to Italy, where they are used to create modern masks, sprays, shampoos and hair conditioners (12 products in total).

Jamu

Exotic ingredients and ancient traditions inspired the creators of the Jamu brand, whose cosmetics are produced according to traditional Indonesian and Balinese recipes from spices, fruits and herbs. In addition, the brand’s products are also suitable for SPA procedures, which once again proves its effectiveness.

H.I.P.

Organic cosmetics are also good because they can be consumed orally. The French brand H.I.P. There is a tonic that is recommended to be added to drinks to enhance vitality. H.I.P. preaches the concept of global beauty, the brand has two series: Arc-en-ciel, designed for facial and body skin care, and H.I.P. Hair - for hair. To create all products, only natural active ingredients are used: essential oils, vitamins and rare plant extracts.

Aesop

The principle of the Australian brand Aesop, like most brands of organic cosmetics, is to care for the skin with what nature created. The brand has everything for body, hair and face care. And, what’s especially nice, the line contains products suitable for and solving the problems of sensitive skin (Camellia Nut facial hydrating cream - moisturizing cream with chamomile, sandalwood and rosemary extracts for sensitive skin) and for intensive nutrition and hydration of very dry skin (Damascan Rose facial treatment - serum with rose oil and vitamins).

Aesop

Surely many of us have already become acquainted with the Greek brand Fresh Line, which in its boutique sells face masks, fruit soaps and strawberry bath jelly by weight. And no one leaves Lush, Grabtree Evelyn and L`Occitane stores without a fragrant scrub, massage oil or floral cream.

In addition to the natural advantages, organic cosmetics have other advantages: the vast majority of products are beautifully packaged, they will decorate any interior. In addition, these cosmetics often have delicious scents. The aromas of essential oils are known to prepare and improve the skin's perception of the active components included in cosmetics. published

Nastya Kostyuchenkova

The cosmetics industry in Russia is not the most popular direction, and the natural industry is even more so. I’m used to the fact that most interesting brands and products are located outside our country, and, to be honest, I’m a little offended for my country. A huge number of fields that could be used to grow your own cosmetic ingredients are overgrown with weeds. But in our climate there grows a large number of plants suitable for obtaining essential and base oils, hydrosols and extracts of excellent quality. And from these components it is possible to produce decent products. However, most of these raw materials are exported. And then we buy the finished product, the price of which includes the tax for importing it into Russia. Due to the lack of high-quality raw materials, local companies are forced to purchase them abroad, which of course affects the price or quality of the product. I, like many others, will choose quality in this situation.
And, if in America and Europe there are brands that not only meet the requirements of truly pure natural cosmetics, but are also quite affordable, then can the same be said about Russia? How developed is the market for natural and organic cosmetics in our country? What brands immediately pop up in your head when you hear the phrase “natural Russian cosmetics”?
In this post I am not trying to denigrate or justify anyone, I want to outline the situation as a whole in order to understand what choice there is. I often hear the opinion that abroad there are truly natural cosmetics, but here we have just one word. Let's figure out together who is natural in our country.

First solution: Natura Siberica, Organic Shop, Grandmother Agafya

This is by far the most famous brand on Russian market. The First Solution has a wide range and affordable prices. But there are still debates about naturalness, safety and organicity. I tried some of their products and was not impressed, but there are people for whom these cosmetics are effective. There are myths circulating on the Internet that there are no natural ingredients at all, or that products with such a composition cannot be so cheap. Just search for “the whole truth about Natura Siberica” and you will see many more different versions. Speaking about Natura Siberika or Organic Shop (Granny Agafya does not yet claim to be organic), it is worth noting that their products actually received Ecocert, Cosmos standard (natural and organic) certificates. And then the full marketing begins. Not all products are certified, only certain products and lines. In general, Natura Siberika products do not even say that they are all organic, but this mixture of natural and organic lines with conventional ones often confuses beginners. I advise you to buy only products from the brand with Cosmos certificates (by the way, in branded stores Natura Siberica or Organic Shop, at your request, consultants will select products only with certificates).
But, for example, Living sea buckthorn oil for all occasions is truly 100% organic, which Cosmos confirms. Moreover, the same children's series Little Siberica can be called organic, since it has a Cosmos organic certificate.
With Organic Shop and Planeta Organica the situation is more complicated. In one of the interviews, the creator of the brand Andrei Trubnikov says that they plan to certify Organic Shop, this was in 2013, and, as far as I know, they actually received certificates, but also not for all products. The Organic Shop has BDIH certified natural products, but not all of them.
I also managed to find information that the Planeta Organica oil mixtures - Certified Organic Nourishing Facial Oil and Anti-age, as well as Cupuaçu Butter Oil (USDA and EuroLeaf icons) have an ICEA (Eco Bio Cosmetics Standard) certificate. However, what happens with other oils is also unknown.

Many Natura Siberica products bear the inscription “active organics” and this is not the same thing as the above-mentioned certificates. Yes, some of the components may be of organic origin, but not all products with such a label have a good composition.

Separately, I would like to talk about prices for First Solution products. Creams that have an Ecocert certificate are much more expensive than their non-certified counterparts. But the oils do not differ much in price, except for the mentioned Cupuaçu butter. The Little Siberica children's line is very, very affordable and this is by no means an indication of questionable ingredients. Speaking of affordable organics, I personally immediately remember the brands Weleda, Lavera, Benecos,. All have different respected certificates, while they occupy the budget segment (especially abroad, in our country the situation has changed somewhat due to currency prices). But who would think of doubting their naturalness or organicity? The thing is that they have existed for a very long time, and they simply deserve trust. And on the Russian market, Natura Siberica became a pioneer; before it, no one had ever heard of organic cosmetics. I’m not making excuses for the company, I just want to be objective and not evaluate products negatively just because someone on the forum said that a product with such a composition cannot be so cheap or that their compositions are thought out so as not to harm, but also bring no benefit.

By the way, if we talk about foreign companies, then not everything is so smooth there either. There are a lot of products on the market that have not received any certificate, yet they contain organic ingredients and no one asks why they are SO expensive/cheap? This is me now about the popular cosmetic line May Lindstrom. Her cosmetics are very expensive, containing entirely useful and organic ingredients, but the components have also not been confirmed by anyone, however, judging by the reviews, no one doubts the organicity and quality of the products (I am also very interested in it, and I in no way against!) If we are already talking about oils, then the quality of Aura Cacia oils is beyond doubt (USDA-organic certificate), however, their prices are very reasonable.
In the American blogosphere, a couple of years ago there was a boom with Organic Excellence shampoos, which presented themselves as natural, and did not contain any surfactants or emulsifiers at all. Stephanie Greenwood, creator of the Chemical Of the Day website and the Bubble&Bee Organic line of products, found out that potassium lactate, which the company promoted as a substance that produces foam, cannot produce it, moreover, it is contained in shampoo in the amount of 0.016 ml per 470 ml bottle . Traces of sulfates were also found in the shampoo. By the way, the company still sells this product. I think that after such a study, the organic nature of the brand’s products is also in question. In the matter of First Solution products, I believe that you should trust certificates first of all in order not to guess what was put in the bottle or to use and not bother. I chose the first option for myself. In any case, you can criticize or praise their products and marketing for a long time, but Natura Siberica definitely deserves respect for promoting organics to the masses and producing products, albeit not all of them, but with pure ingredients at an affordable price.

Spivak

Another company around the naturalness of its products there is a lot of controversy and speculation. A huge range of oils, body scrubs, shampoos, soaps, etc. The composition is quite good, except that the polysorbates confuse me (as far as I remember, Spivak uses polysorbate-60, which earned a C grade at the EWG). On the topic of polysorbates, Spivak has a guide based on scientific research. And everything seems to be generally not bad, but the question again arises - why is it so cheap? Spivak replies that he orders a huge amount of oils for making soap, so the sale of pure oils is not the main source of income for him, but an additional source of income, they say, our customers really asked for it. I’ve tried quite a lot of products from this company (you can read about the cleansing foam) and I can say that their batters are really decent (although coconut greatly depends on the batch (country of production) - it may smell sour, but this does not affect the properties in any way) Relatively The company recently launched essential oils, which are now being discussed by the entire natural community. If I knew where to do chromatograms, I would definitely buy a couple of oils and do them - I’m also interested in their quality. Spivak positions them as completely natural and undiluted, however, the consistency of the lavender essential oil, which I took out of curiosity, was very strange - liquid like water and the smell in comparison with Aura Cacia - very sour. If I didn’t know what lavender smells like before, I would never have recognized it there. But patchouli and ylang-ylang smell decent, the consistency is thicker, but I didn’t have the opportunity to compare them with Aura, so I won’t say anything. I haven’t bought any more essential oils and I’m unlikely to do so until their purity is clarified. I consider argan, shea, macadamia and broccoli quite good. Shea and argan are no different from those from Now Foods and Aura Cacia, however, there is an assumption on the Internet that the oils are poorly refined, which is why they are so cheap (by the way, I heard the same assumption about Desert Essence jojoba oil, the quality of which, it would seem, is in doubt should not cause). On the plus side, I can note that Spivak has Organic certificates for lavender and rose hydrolates and sends them by mail to everyone who is incredulous. I tried rose and believe me, it smells just like rose essential oil roses in jojoba from Aura, and not at all like the rose in , the latter clearly has a pink scent.

Biobeauty

A well-known Russian company producing dry cosmetics based on zeolite. They don't call themselves organic, but they do claim to be 100% natural. Indeed, as for dry products, they contain zeolite, salt, kaolin and various ground herbs. Since this is a dry product that is mixed with water immediately before use, there is no need to add preservatives to it, the main thing is to avoid moisture. In my opinion, the absence of preservatives is an ideal solution to the question of which preservative is better)). However, the prospect of infection with demodicosis does not make me very happy. Thus, it turns out that dry cosmetics are the safest solution to the problem of both bacteria and preservatives. By the way, you can read a review of Tender Biocleaning from Biobeauty. As for cream products, not everything is as good as we would like. The company uses the preservative Caton CG, one of its names is Methylisothiazolone, which scores 6 points on the EWG. The danger of dermatitis and allergic reactions with this component increases. It is not officially prohibited, but certain doses are established for it. The famous beauty guru of natural cosmetics, Paula Begun, also classifies this preservative as bad, citing, among other things, very specific scientific studies. Biobeauty claims that this preservative is very sensitive to light, and as soon as you squeeze the cream onto your hand, it will have time to break down into safe components before you apply it to your face. I was unable to find such information in open sources, but if you know something about katon, I would be glad to hear additional information.

Now let's move on to small companies, where everything is more clear.

Workshop of Olesya Mustaeva

You understand that I couldn’t ignore it)) To my surprise, not everyone knows about the existence of the Workshop, which is a pity. Products of decent quality at an affordable price, produced in Kazan, which, you see, is a definite plus for delivery! Yes, cosmetics are not certified, but for small companies, it seems to me, trust in the brand is based on trust in the creator and his philosophy. As far as I know, Olesya has previously worked with well-known oil manufacturers Baraka (by the way, they are now partners of the company), she carefully approaches the selection of ingredients and, as she writes on social networks, not a single reformulation of products occurs without her knowledge. Together with her team, she develops effective formulas and selects ingredients. I am especially impressed by the fact that Olesya does not hide preservatives or emulsifiers in her products, but speaks openly about them. Very often, small companies refuse to disclose the ingredients of their products under the pretext that they want to steal the formula from them. To be honest, I think this is the most crazy statement! How the indication of a preservative can reveal the formula is beyond me. But it’s easy to undermine trust in a brand. If they hide it, it means that most likely there is something dirty there. As far as I know, you can approximately calculate the formula by looking at the ingredients (after all, according to INCI, they are indicated in a certain sequence), and an experienced technologist will see something else. And for some reason large companies, without fear of anything, talk about preservatives. At Olesya Mustaeva’s Workshop, everything is open, they honestly talk about replacing components in their creams, and are also ready for feedback from clients - if something is not to their liking or not suitable, they will always advise and help. Popular YouTube blogger Irene Vladi once said that the coffee used by the Workshop in scrubs is restaurant quality. For me, this is an indicator not only of the quality of the product, but also the attitude of the creator towards his clients. In turn, seeing it on my skin, I can say that Olesya Mustaeva’s products are worthy of high marks. At the same time, it does not contain strange or ambiguous ingredients, such as fruit stem cells (I’m talking about Acure now), which are very alarming to me.

Another small company that is honest about their ingredients. I ordered hair masks from them to try. All products have a pure composition, the components score 1-2 points on the EWG, so the cosmetics can be considered natural. The only thing I don't like is benzyl alcohol. It can be part of essential oils, or used separately as a preservative. This substance is included in Weleda products, but is labeled “a component of essential oils.” There is no mark here, so I asked the question directly to Kleona and am waiting for an answer. Benzyl alcohol can cause an allergic reaction and, in high concentrations, aggravate bronchitis and asthma in some people. As a person who is not allergic at all, this does not bother me. But I really don’t like the information that in combination with titanium dioxide it can form aldehydes, including formaldehyde. I didn’t find titanium dioxide in any of Kleona’s creams or masks. But still, I hope the company will clarify the situation with benzyl alcohol. Some Kleona creams contain phenoxyethanol; there is so much controversy and ambiguous information around this ingredient that everyone can decide for themselves whether to avoid it or not. I know that such popular and respected companies as Desert Essence, Derma E, Physician’s formula and others use it. As for me, I do not specifically avoid this component, but its absence will be an argument for me when choosing between two identical products.

Krasnaya Polyana cosmetics

A small family company located in the Krasnodar region in the ecologically clean mountain village of Medoveevka in the Krasnopolyansky district. They produce personal and home care products based on saponified oils (like Spivak, by the way). This is one of the few companies that produces its own hydrosols! Moreover, this is actually a product of steam distillation, and not an essential oil in water. The only thing that bothered me was the vague “vegetable preservative” at the end of the composition. I also asked a question on the official website of Krasnopolyanskaya cosmetics, and they answered that they use either biosol or silver citrate - both of these preservatives are in the green zone on the EWG and score no more than 2 points. A mixture of cetearyl alcohol and polysorbate-60, under the commercial name polawax, is also used as an emulsifier. As you can see from the representative’s response, the composition is truly pure, safe and natural. Again, the company’s frankness personally inspires confidence in me. The openness and honesty of the Krasnopolyansk company is also supported by the fact that on the website and on social networks you can see photo reports directly from production. This year the company appeared on TV in the program “My Life is Made in Russia”, where you can watch about the production and listen to the history of creation. I have already ordered some Krasnopolyanskaya cosmetics products to try, so I plan to make a separate post on this topic. I am impressed by their attitude to production in general, as well as their minimalistic and clean product compositions.

Mi&Ko

Another family company that is becoming increasingly popular in the Russian market. The compositions are extremely pure: various oils, plant extracts and other components are used that do not raise any questions for me. Honeysuckle extract is used as a preservative. The Olesya Mustaeva Workshop also uses the same preservative. What is especially noteworthy is that the shelf life of opened cosmetics is only six months. The range of products is very wide: products for hair, body and face, men's line, cleaning products, repellents and even candles. Company representatives are also willing to answer questions on social networks. Unfortunately, Mi&ko does not have certificates. So far I have not been able to get acquainted with the company’s funds, however, I definitely plan to do so.

Of course, this is not the entire list of cosmetics manufacturers. If you want to hear my opinion about a specific company, write in the comments, I will be happy to answer. My main task was to introduce you to the most popular brands of Russian natural and organic cosmetics. It is worth noting that there are still some brands that I have deliberately avoided, since they do not fit into my idea of ​​what truly natural cosmetics should be. In general, the essence of my post is as follows: the popularity of natural and organic cosmetics attracts not only those who want to create a decent product, but also those who just want to make money, and we, as consumers, must learn to read ingredients, look for information about certificates , ask about the ingredients from the company itself in order to choose truly natural and safe products. You shouldn’t limit yourself only to the foreign market, because we also have decent products, they just aren’t that many and they’re not that popular. For me, the topic of Russian natural cosmetics is open. I hope that despite the crisis, this industry will develop and we will have a decent choice. As for quality, I do not believe that foreign production is a priori of better quality; a lot depends on the integrity of the manufacturer. It’s just that organics appeared earlier abroad, and accordingly, they are ahead of the development of this industry here. However, as long as there are companies that are ready to “keep up the brand” and not reduce quality, despite the abundance of readily available synthetic ingredients, the natural cosmetics industry in Russia will develop.

Healthy and well-groomed facial skin is one of the main parameters by which we evaluate not only a person’s appearance, but also a person’s success. It is not surprising that women, and men too, have recently been spending more and more time and money on self-care. Cosmetics are the first assistants in this matter. Among the main formats are:

According to their properties, they are divided into the following categories:

Cleansing

The main task of cleansers is to rid the top layer of skin of dead horn cells, makeup and impurities. Below is our small rating of cleansing and makeup remover products.

Exfoliating cleansing gel for daily use Biosource Daily Exfoliating Gelée, Biotherm

Gently exfoliates dead epidermal cells to:

the skin looked fresh and radiant;

update processes took place without interference;

it did not reach the point of hyperkeratosis or clogged pores and comedones.

Lipid-restoring cream-gel for the face and body of babies, children and adults Lipikar Syndet AP+, La Roche-Posay

The gentle cleansing formula contains shea butter, niacinamide and Aqua Posay Filiformis, an innovative active ingredient that alleviates atopic skin. Restores and strengthens the lipid barrier.

Gel-foam for the face “Basic care” with grape extract, Garnier

The name claims grape extract - a natural source of antioxidants. The product neutralizes oxidative stress, fights oily shine, removes impurities and refreshes the skin.

Removes waterproof makeup, as well as dead skin cells, so that it gradually acquires radiance and smoothness. Contains Japanese charcoal and tea enzyme.

Toning

The main purpose of tonics and lotions is to restore the pH balance of the skin and prepare for subsequent care. They also complete the cleansing process, and this is not a myth, but a reality: the evidence will appear on a cotton pad if you rub it over your face immediately after washing.

Tonic “Absolute tenderness”, L’Oréal Paris

Designed specifically for skin prone to sensitivity and dryness. Gallic rose and lotus extracts are responsible for toning, moisturizing, softening, feeling fresh and comfortable.

Effectively removes makeup, soothes and protects the skin. The physiological pH level allows you to restore the acid-base balance, optimal for facial skin.

It will be useful for anyone whose skin has suddenly become dull, dry and shows obvious signs of fatigue. Extracts of lemon balm, gentian and goji berries fill with energy, moisturize and have an anti-stress effect. And reflective microparticles ensure radiance.

Pore-tightening cleansing lotion Normaderm, Vichy

Contains exfoliating components, but there is no drying effect - amazing quality for a product addressed to problem skin.

Hydration

The main task of such formulas is to supply moisture to the skin, retain it and form a protective film on the surface of the epidermis that prevents water from evaporating. How to choose the perfect moisturizer? Consider your skin type, as well as its condition and needs, which may vary depending on the time of year.

Aquafluid for face “Genius of Moisturizing” for normal and combination skin, L’Oréal Paris

Thanks to its light consistency, it is quickly absorbed and begins to work on hydration. It is provided by aloe juice and high molecular weight hyaluronic acid, which acts immediately in five layers of the epidermis, maintaining the result for up to 72 hours.

Armani Prima Moisture Serum, Giorgio Armani

The description of this product on the brand’s website includes the word “intelligent.” And all because the serum, when applied to the skin, reacts to the degree of hydration of different areas of the face and is distributed in accordance with these indicators. Contains hyaluronic acid and seaweed extract.

Moisturizing facial cream-gel Maxi:hydrability, Shu Uemura

3-in-1 product: cream, essence, lotion - has a powerful moisturizing effect thanks to aquaporins, yuzu citrus extract, glycerin. Suitable for those with normal to combination skin aged 20–30 years.

Daily gel-serum for skin exposed to aggressive external influences, Mineral 89, Vichy

The number 89 means the percentage in the mineralizing formula thermal water Vichy, which is rich in 15 minerals that have a beneficial effect on the skin. The formula is enhanced with hyaluronic acid to immediately and permanently saturate skin cells with moisture.

Sheet mask “Moisturizing + Anti-stress”, Garnier

In 15 minutes, saturates the skin with moisture thanks to a moisturizing serum and hyaluronic acid, and at the same time helps to relax due to the aroma of lavender oil. Find out more about fabric masks from different cosmetic brands (not only Garnier) you can.

Nutrition

The cream has a rich texture. It gently envelops the skin, intensively restoring the upper layers of the epidermis, increases the protective function due to the content of shea butter, and restores comfort and softness.

Extraordinary face cream-oil “Luxury of nutrition”, L"Oréal Paris

Despite the functionality that provides power, light cream texture and ability to be perfectly distributed and absorbed without leaving a feeling of stickiness or greasy. Active ingredients include lavender, rosemary, and jasmine oils.

Anti-aging care

Among its main tasks are the correction of wrinkles, as well as the preservation of firmness and elasticity, the prevention of age-related changes, hydration and nutrition.

Restoring cream against visible age-related changes Blue Therapy Accelerated Cream, Biotherm

The cream contains a unique “underwater” complex Algae of Youth, which restores the structure of the epidermis and saturates it with moisture. With regular use, facial contours become clearer, its microrelief is smoothed, and the skin seems to glow.

Day lifting cream for normal skin Collagenist V-Lift, Helena Rubinstein

The dense texture is comfortable to use. A high-tech composition, including V-peptides and tightening polymers, works to strengthen the skin and give clarity to facial contours.

Cream that reduces wrinkles and prevents their appearance, Powerful Wrinkle Reducing Cream, SPF 30, Kiehl’s

This universal product will do everything possible for mature skin with obvious signs of aging, and even more. Thanks to the formula with copper and calcium pyrrolidone carbonate, as well as shea butter, it reduces the depth of wrinkles, restores collagen fibers, and makes the skin elastic and smooth.

Anti-aging day cream LiftActiv Collagen Specialist, Vichy

Cream with vitamin C, which stimulates collagen production, tones the skin and also fights wrinkles and dullness.

Intensive concentrated anti-aging care Redermic Retinol, La Roche-Posay

Featuring one of the world's most powerful anti-aging ingredients, the advanced formula features sustained-release retinol, plus ingredients like Hepes (stimulates cell turnover) and skin-soothing neurosensin.

Sun protection

Once again we remind you that exposure to the sun without protective cosmetics is harmful. Creams with SPF filters will prevent photoaging ( dark spots and wrinkles) and neutralize oxidative stress caused by ultraviolet radiation.

Reliably protects the skin from ultraviolet exposure in the city and on the beach, is resistant to water and sweat and at the same time has a very light (and invisible on the skin) innovative texture. Shake before use - hence the name "shaka".

Sunscreen refreshing transparent spray with aloe vera Ambre Solaire “Solar Water”, SPF 50, Garnier

A two-phase lightweight product with a very high degree of protection, moisturizing effect and non-sticky texture, suitable for both face and body. Read about the rules for using sunscreens and the sequence of their application.