Clean Beauty: Natural Exfoliants For a Sustainable Future

According to a study by the UK government, a single shower can release up to 100,000 microplastic particles into the environment.

It is estimated there is 236,000 tonnes of microplastics released into the environment every year just from personal care and cosmetic products alone – that’s the equivalent of 94,400 Olympic-sized swimming pools filled to the brim with microplastics, or an area of ocean 45 square miles with a depth of 2 meters!

The ban of microplastics has been put into law by the UK, USA, Canada & New Zealand to name a few, but many world-leading economies are yet to convert. The natural alternatives aren’t just better for the environment, their kinder to our skin too, and that’s why we’re going to explore the several benefits to using natural scrubs instead of microplastics.

At O&3, we understand the importance of using natural, eco-friendly & sustainable ingredients. That’s why we ensure that our exfoliants are ethically sourced and that the suppliers we work with are environmentally conscious, too.

We offer a range of exfoliants that can be used in a variety of formulations, including body scrubs, facial scrubs, and exfoliating cleansers. Our exfoliants can be customised to meet your specific needs, and we can work with you to create a unique formulation that will give you the results you want.

It is time for cosmetic companies and brands to take responsibility and make the switch to natural exfoliants in all their products.

What are microplastics?

Microplastics are small plastic particles that measure less than five millimetres in size. These particles can be found in a range of products, including personal care products like exfoliants, toothpaste, and shower gels. They are also used in manufacturing processes and can be released into the environment through wastewater.

Why are microplastics harmful to the environment?

The use of microplastics in cosmetics has been shown to have a detrimental effect on the environment. When these particles are washed down the drain, they can end up in rivers, lakes, and oceans, where they can harm marine life. Marine animals can mistake microplastics for food and ingest them, leading to blockages in their digestive systems, starvation, and death. A study by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation found that by 2050, there could be more plastic in the ocean than fish.

In addition to the harm to marine life, microplastics can also enter the food chain, potentially causing harm to humans who consume seafood. A study by the University of Ghent found that people who regularly eat seafood may consume up to 11,000 microplastic particles per year.

What are natural exfoliants?

Natural exfoliants are made from the finest raw plant materials such as nuts, fruits, vegetables and seeds to produce an effective, natural and highly-functional solution for the removal of dead skin cells as well as other skin benefits.

What are the benefits of natural exfoliants?

It goes without saying that natural exfoliants are much better for the environment than microplastics. They’re fully biodegradable and do not harm the environment – this means they do not contribute to the plastic pollution that is causing harm to marine life and entering the food chain

Natural exfoliants are kind to skin. Unlike microplastics, which can be abrasive and cause damage to the skin, natural scrubs are gentle and help to remove dead skin cells without causing irritation. This makes them suitable for people with sensitive skin, too

Thirdly, natural exfoliants are versatile and can be customized to suit different skin types. For example, sugar scrubs are hydrating and can be used on dry skin, while salt scrubs are more abrasive and are better suited for oily skin

Finally, natural exfoliants are cost-effective and easy to produce. They can be made from ingredients that are readily available, and do not require complex manufacturing processes that are readily available, and do not require complex manufacturing processes.

Best natural exfoliants for different skin conditions

All O&3 exfoliants help remove dead skin cells and improve the overall texture and appearance of the skin. Here’s a quick rundown of some of our favourites.

Pumice Powder:

O&3’s Pumice Powder is a volcanic rock that has been ground into a fine powder. It is a highly effective exfoliant that is ideal for use on rough and dry areas of the skin, such as the feet and elbows. Pumice powder can help to remove calluses, leaving tough skin feeling smooth and soft. It is also an excellent ingredient for foot scrubs and can help to improve cracked heels.

Rosehip Shells:

O&3’s Organic Rosehip Shells come from the outer covering of the rosehip fruit. They are a natural and biodegradable exfoliant that is gentle on the skin. Rosehip shells can help to promote cell turnover, leaving the skin looking brighter and more radiant.

Jojoba Powder

O&3’s Jojoba Powder is a gentle exfoliating ingredient that is made from jojoba oil. Jojoba powder is gentle enough for daily use and helps leave skin feeling soft and smooth. It is ideal for use in facial exfoliants and can help to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Apricot Kernel Powder

O&3’s Apricot Kernel Stones are a fine-grained powder that provides a gentle exfoliation. It is made from the kernels of apricot seeds and can help to promote cell turnover, leaving the skin looking brighter and more even-toned.

So, there you have it – easily accessible and completely biodegradable O&3 exfoliants bringing sustainability to any finished product. In a consumer world increasingly concerned with moving away from synthetics, look no further for the perfect ingredient for your exfoliating product.

We have an innovative and expansive portfolio of natural ingredients, each with the accompanying certifications and accreditations.

And, with over 40 years of oil industry experience, you can draw on our extensive knowledge to develop your next line of products. Let us help you create products that smell great, function fantastically and make your customers fall in love with your brand over, and over again.