The wealth of African lands inspires more and more cosmetic manufacturers. Many natural ingredients from the African continent are acclaimed for their benefits. Shea butter or even black soap are just a glimpse of these treasures. These effective products meet specific needs while being ecological… So what does Africa offer to enrich the world of beauty?
A growing craze for natural cosmetics
Cosmetic products mainly made up of natural ingredients arouse the enthusiasm of consumers. This formula is preferred for body, face and hair care.
Natural cosmetics contain natural raw materials (mineral resources, ingredients of plant and animal origin). The ingredients go through different processes before composing cosmetic products. This includes filtration, extraction, drying, grinding, lyophilization, sieving, distillation or even pressing.
These operations require the use of materials allowing to conserve the natural polyphenols (antioxidants) as well as the vitamins of the raw materials.
Note that it is possible to introduce elements obtained by biotechnological process in the development of natural cosmetics. As for ingredients of animal origin, only harmless physical methods to extract substances are allowed. These include, for example, bee products such as honey or beeswax.
It is important to know that a natural cosmetic can also be composed of the following elements:
- Natural emollients, emulsifiers and colorants;
- Marine components (algae);
- Essential oils;
- Natural preservatives;
- Active substances;
- Salt ;
- Inorganic oxides derived from minerals.
The cosmetics industry and African natural resources
Cosmetic manufacturers have understood the effectiveness of natural ingredients and the interest they arouse. Many of them have chosen Africa to find it.
All the more so as the market for products specific to black / mixed skin and “ethnic” hair is currently experiencing significant expansion. This category of clientele is therefore looking for effective products to regain radiant skin and hair. Quite naturally, drawing the sources of these much sought-after benefits from the roots is obvious.
Overview of the best natural ingredients from Africa
Africa is full of products which are true allies for the skin and the hair. They have as common points a good adaptation to the sun. Many of them make up our cosmetic products:
- Black seed oil: it is rich in fatty acids, vitamins A and E. It is the beauty secret of shiny hair;
- Coconut oil: it is composed of essential fatty acids, vitamins E. It nourishes and hydrates the skin and the hair;
- Argan oil: it is rich in vitamin E and fatty acids. It has softening properties and it preserves the hydration of the skin;
- The aloe vera: the plant is rich in antioxidants, enzymes and vitamins. It rebalances the skin's pH and provides significant hydration;
- Ginger: there are vitamins B1, B2 and B3. It has cleansing and exfoliating properties. It cleanses the skin and unclogs the pores.
- Moringa: it is rich in antioxidants. It hydrates the upper layers of the epidermis. It is purifying and astringent;
- Sweet almond oil: it is rich in vitamins A and E. It hydrates all skin types;
- Argan oil: it contains fatty acids (omega 6 and 9), vitamins A and E, but also minerals and trace elements. It protects and hydrates the skin and hair;
- Castor oil: it is rich in fatty acids and vitamin E. It deeply nourishes and hydrates dry skin;
- Bissap oil: it is rich in antioxidants and vitamin E. It fights against aging of the skin and it reduces stretch marks;
- Shea butter: it is rich in unsaturated fatty acids. It is used to reduce cracks and to hydrate the skin;
- Olive oil: it contains a lot of omega 9 and monounsaturated fatty acids. It protects against the action of free radicals. It prevents the signs of aging;
- Clay: it has an absorbent, antiseptic and antibacterial capacity property.
Shop on Ethni Beauty Market
The African soil is undoubtedly the El Dorado of cosmetics thanks to the innumerable quantity of raw materials which are accessible there. They thrive in an environment and conditions conducive to their well-being. Browse the products available on Ethni Beauty Market, you will certainly find what you are looking for!