For thousands of years, skincare has been rooted in nature. Ancient civilizations around the globe used botanical ingredients like oils, honey, clay, and herbs to nourish and heal the skin. But when we fast-forward to recent centuries, the rise of industrialization led to a significant shift - one that introduced synthetic ingredients designed for cost-effectiveness, mass production, and extended shelf life. This shift not only transformed the beauty industry but also raised concerns about long-term health effects - both for people and the planet. 

To understand why people are returning to natural ingredients, it helps to know more about skincare’s evolution. Read on for a fascinating glimpse at the history of skincare and the rise of today's clean beauty movement... 

Ancient Skincare: The Power of Plants

Ancient skincare practices were quite sophisticated.

As early as 2,000 BCE, civilizations in Mesopotamia, China, and Egypt were distilling essential oils to extract potent plant compounds for medicinal and cosmetic use. The Egyptians mastered herbal infusions, using frankincense, aloe, and myrrh for their healing and restorative properties. In traditional Chinese medicine, finely ground herbs and oils were blended into skincare to promote balance and a radiant complexion, while Ayurveda incorporated turmeric, sandalwood, and saffron into elaborate beauty rituals for cleansing, toning, and nourishment.

Across cultures, plants played a vital role in maintaining skin health and reflected people's understanding of nature’s ability to heal and protect (an approach now confirmed by modern research).

While most relied on locally available ingredients—such as olive oil and honey in the Mediterranean or maize and plant resins among Indigenous American groups—global trade routes allowed prized botanicals to travel across continents. The Silk Road and maritime spice routes brought various ingredients and traditions to new places. This exchange enriched skincare practices worldwide, blending the depth of local wisdom with valuable global influences.

18th-20th Century Skincare: The Rise of Additives

As we move into more recent centuries, the Industrial Revolution (18th–19th century) was a key turning point. It marked the shift from agrarian and handcrafted economies to manufacturing economies.

The demand for mass production, efficiency, and synthetic chemistry (the science of creating new chemicals and manipulating existing ones) exploded, which meant additives and chemical compounds started making their way into skincare too. 

• Victorian Era (mid- to late-1800s): Lead-based face powders, arsenic creams, and mercury-laden skin lighteners were common, despite their harmful effects.

• Early 1900s: The beauty industry embraced synthetic preservatives like formaldehyde and coal tar dyes for stability and vibrant color.

Another key turning point came in the early 20th century, when the beauty industry began using newly developed petrochemicals, preservatives, and synthetic fragrances to create longer-lasting, cheaper, and more visually appealing products.

• 1930s–1950s: Parabens, phthalates, and petroleum-derived ingredients were introduced to increase shelf life and create smooth product textures.

• 1960s–1980s: Sulfates like SLS (sodium lauryl sulfate) became standard in cleansers for their foaming ability, while PEG (polyethylene glycol) compounds were used in lotions and creams for consistency.

Why were these ingredients added? 

Companies prioritized convenience, cost, and sensory appeal over ingredient safety. Some of the key reasons synthetic chemicals became dominant in skincare include:

• Longer Shelf Life: Preservatives like parabens prevented microbial growth, making products last longer.

• Mass Production & Cost Savings: Petrochemical derivatives (like mineral oil) replaced plant oils because they were cheaper and had an indefinite shelf life.

• Texture & Feel: Silicones gave products a smooth, luxurious feel, while synthetic emulsifiers kept formulas stable.

• Lather & Cleansing Power: Sulfates created a satisfying foam but often stripped the skin of natural oils.

• Fragrance & Color: Synthetic fragrances and dyes ensured products had a consistent scent and appearance but came with potential health risks.

Late 20th and Early 21st Century Skincare: Awareness and Advocacy

Since the late 20th century, scientific research into the health effects of skincare ingredients expanded significantly. Independent studies and regulatory bodies began investigating the potential risks of synthetic compounds, uncovering links between certain preservatives, dyes, and fragrance chemicals and issues such as endocrine disruption, allergies, and even carcinogenic effects. 

The rise of consumer advocacy groups, such as the Environmental Working Group (EWG) and the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics, helped increase awareness about ingredient safety, urging both companies and policymakers to take action.

As research continued, some countries implemented stricter regulations, banning or restricting specific harmful additives, while brands embracing transparency and botanical-based formulations grew.

• 2000s–Present: Studies revealed that many synthetic ingredients were linked to skin irritation, hormone disruption, and environmental harm, leading to a growing demand for cleaner alternatives.

Today: A Modern Return to Nature

Today, consumers are more informed and conscious about what they put on their skin.

Scientific research, advocacy, and stricter regulations have led to a renewed focus on natural, plant-based, and non-toxic formulations. Ingredients like botanical oils, hydrosols, and minerals are back in the spotlight as people look for skincare that works in harmony with the body rather than against it.

Beyond personal health, choosing natural skincare also benefits the environment. Unlike synthetic chemicals, plant-based ingredients break down easily without polluting waterways and ecosystems. Ethical sourcing and sustainable farming practices further minimize environmental impact, making natural skincare a choice that supports both personal well-being and planetary health.

Skincare has come full circle—from nature, to synthetic, and back to nature again. Choosing products made with clean, simple ingredients is more than just a trend; it’s a return to the wisdom that supported humans for thousands of years.

Further reading:
History of Natural Ingredients in Cosmetics
A Review of Environmental and Health Effects of Synthetic Cosmetics
The Beast of Beauty: Environmental and Health Concerns of Toxic Components in Cosmetics

Photography credit: Main Image @DizzyD718

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I believe in keeping things simple, yet sophisticated. Using beautifully effective, natural ingredients, I create luxurious skincare and wellness goods for everyday rituals. In every small batch of Pure Luxe Apothecary products, you'll find a fusion of pure, plant-based ingredients, thoughtfulness, and intention. These modern and minimalist remedies are rooted in holistic health to support your entire being - mind, body, and spirit.

Cheers to good health and happy skin!