Natural Skincare: My Take on What to Skip and What to Keep
When I first started Organic LEIGH, I made myself a promise: every bottle, every drop, every formula would earn its place in your skincare ritual. That meant going beyond what was trending on social media and choosing ingredients that truly love your skin back.
Over the years, I have tested, researched, and reformulated until each product felt like something I would proudly share with the people I care about most. Along the way, I discovered a few popular skincare favorites that do not work for every skin type and a handful of ingredients I will never be without.
Why I skip beef tallow and what I use instead
Beef tallow is having a moment among lovers of old-world and minimalist beauty. On paper it offers vitamins and fatty acids similar to our skin’s own oils. For many people, though, it can feel too heavy on the face. Its occlusive nature can trap heat, sweat, and dead skin cells, leading to clogged pores, uneven texture, and in many cases, stubborn acne breakouts.
Tallow also misses out on the rich variety of plant antioxidants and phytonutrients that protect skin from daily stressors. It can oxidize if it is not rendered and stored carefully, and it is not a fit for people who prefer to avoid animal-derived ingredients.
When I want something protective but lightweight, I reach for plant-based oils like Squalane, Camellia, and Meadowfoam to name a few. These oils deliver deep nourishment, absorb beautifully, and bring natural antioxidant support without clogging pores.
A gentler approach to cooling treatments
A chilled face roller or a quick ice touch can feel refreshing. But too much cold exposure can be harsh on delicate skin. I’ve seen over-icing cause redness, broken capillaries, and flare-ups in those I’ve helped with sensitive skin.
If you enjoy that cooled sensation, try botanicals that soothe and calm without shock. Marshmallow root extract and Aloe are two of my favorites for their comforting, hydrating effect.
Why I skip added fragrance
Scent can make a product feel luxurious, but fragrance is one of the most common causes of skin irritation. Both synthetic fragrances and essential oil blends can cause redness, itching, and long-term sensitivity.
At Organic LEIGH, I prefer to let the natural aroma of ingredients speak for themselves. The soft herbal note of rosemary CO₂ or the gentle fruitiness of an unrefined oil gives the product character without compromising skin health.
Ingredients that earn a permanent place on my shelf
Over the years these ingredients have proven their worth in both performance and gentleness:
-
Squalane — Lightweight and barrier-loving, it mirrors the skin’s natural lipids and restores balance.
-
Camellia oil — Fast absorbing and antioxidant rich, a longtime beauty staple.
-
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) — Reduces redness, minimizes the look of pores, and brightens without irritation.
-
Bakuchiol — A gentle plant alternative to retinol that smooths and renews without sensitivity.
-
Marshmallow root extract — Deeply soothing and hydrating, perfect for reactive skin.
-
Hyaluronic acid — Draws water into the skin, plumping and smoothing fine lines.
-
Prickly pear seed oil — Packed with vitamin E and fatty acids to nourish and protect.
- Pomegranate oil - Protects and hydrates the skin while promoting regeneration, supporting elasticity, and soothing irritation.
-
Panthenol (Pro-vitamin B5) — Calms, softens, and strengthens the skin barrier.
-
Aloe vera — Cooling, hydrating, and naturally rich in skin-repairing compounds.
- Cucumber — Refreshes, calms, and delivers antioxidant hydration while reducing puffiness.
My simple philosophy
Trends change. Skin needs consistency, care, and ingredients that actually help. At Organic LEIGH, I choose botanicals and actives that work in harmony with your skin so you see results you can feel.