Formulating for Fitness – Natural Oils for Inflammation, Chafing, and Muscle Pain

In recent years, there has been a significant shift towards natural and organic ingredients in skincare products.

This trend is driven by a growing awareness of the potential harmful effects of synthetic chemicals and a desire for more sustainable and eco-friendly options. For athletes, who are often more conscious of their health and wellness, natural skincare products are an attractive choice, with natural oils becoming popular for their versatility and efficacy.

These oils not only provide numerous skin benefits but also offer solutions tailored to the specific needs of athletes. So, join us today as we explore how natural oils can be integrated into various sports skincare products and the benefits they offer…

Addressing specific fitness needs with natural oils

Athletes can leverage the unique properties of certain oils to address specific needs that arise during training and competition. The demand for natural oils, that can be targeted to tackle common athletic concerns, is on the rise, and some of the main searches include:

Natural oils for muscle pain

Athletes often deal with muscle pain and soreness. Natural oils such as arnica oil, peppermint oil, and ginger oil can be incorporated into balms and creams designed to soothe muscle pain and promote recovery.

Natural anti-chafing cream

Chafing is a common issue for athletes, especially during long workouts. Natural oils such as coconut oil and shea butter can be used to formulate anti-chafing creams. These oils create a protective barrier on the skin, helping to reduce friction and preventing chafing.

Reducing inflammation naturally

Inflammation is a common concern for athletes, both internally and externally. Natural oils such as turmeric oil and frankincense oil have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce skin inflammation. Additionally, incorporating omega-3-rich

oils such food-grade ahiflower oil or flaxseed oil into the diet can help reduce internal inflammation.

Creating natural sports skincare products

As the demand for natural and sustainable options for athletes grows, brands, such as Art of Sport, founded in 2018 by athletes and entrepreneurs, including the legendary basketball player, Kobe Bryant, are becoming increasingly popular. They avoid harsh chemicals and focus on natural ingredients, whilst offering products designed to meet the needs of athletes by using innovative ingredients and prioritising sweat and odour control.

For brands looking to jump on this growing trend, here are some formulations to consider including in product lines:

Natural Antiperspirant and Deodorant

Athletes need effective antiperspirants and deodorants to manage sweat and odour during intense workouts. Natural oils such as tea tree oil, lavender oil, and eucalyptus oil are excellent choices for these products, as they possess antibacterial properties that help combat odour-causing bacteria while providing a refreshing scent. Additionally, coconut oil could make a great base, due to its moisturising properties.

Find out more about how the natural deodorant market is expected to continue its upward trajectory as consumer demand for clean and sustainable personal care products grows, offering brands the opportunity to innovate with advanced natural formulations, sustainable practices, and customisation options to meet the evolving needs of health-conscious and eco-friendly consumers.

Natural Shampoo and Body Wash

For athletes, shampoos and body washes infused with natural oils offer a gentle yet effective cleansing solution. Peppermint oil and eucalyptus oil can invigorate the scalp and body, promoting a refreshing and energising shower experience. These oils also have antifungal and antibacterial properties, which can help keep the skin and scalp healthy.

Natural Face Wash and Face Lotion

Athletes often face unique skincare challenges such as clogged pores from sweating and environmental exposure. Face washes containing tea tree oil or chamomile oil can help cleanse the skin without stripping its natural oils. For moisturisation, face lotions with jojoba oil or rosehip oil provide hydration and promote skin repair, making them ideal for post-workout skincare routines.

Natural Protein Powder

While not a traditional skincare product, protein powders can benefit from the addition of natural oils. For instance, incorporating food-grade hemp oil or flaxseed oil into protein powders can provide essential fatty acids that support overall skin health.

Natural Sunscreen

Sun protection is crucial for everyone, especially athletes who spend a lot of time outdoors.

Sun exposure can lead to skin damage, premature aging, and even skin cancer but according to the Skin Cancer Foundation, using sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher can reduce the risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer by 40%, and reduce the risk of developing melanoma by 50%.

However, many chemical filters used in traditional sunscreens, namely avobenzone, octinoxate, and oxybenzone are known to cause irritation and dryness to the skin as well as hormonal changes in some people, making it increasingly important for brands to research into natural alternatives that can be incorporated into formulations, to preserve our health and the planet.

O&3 Thoughts…

The incorporation of natural oils in sports skincare products is not just a trend but a beneficial approach to addressing the unique needs of athletes. From antiperspirants to sunscreens, natural oils offer versatile solutions that enhance performance, promote recovery, and protect the skin. As the demand for natural and sustainable products continues to grow, athletes can look forward to a range of skincare options that align with their health-conscious lifestyles.