A lot of patients ask me if natural home remedies like Aloe extracts, olive oil, turmeric etc, work better than formulated creams on skin. I must be honest here and tell you that albeit natural products can work for some skins, just because they are natural or organic doesn’t deem them completely harmless. These substances can change the natural pH balance of the skin and cause irritation. 

But despite the risk, people continue to try these at home and I must admit that at times they do show effect. These home ingredients from our  ‘dadi ki potli’,  which consists of applying turmeric powder when there is a cut or applying lime juice to brighten the skin, have shown magic time and again. 

A lot of modern day creams incorporate these natural ingredients and I thought of sharing how each ingredient actually works towards creating this magic and also some of their side effects (yes, these too can have side effects).

ALOE VERA

Pros:

  • Helps in reducing skin pigmentation by inhibiting the enzyme (tyrosinase) that causes pigment synthesis
  • Helps in fighting infections due to certain bacteria and viruses
  • Prevents UV rays induced decrease in skin immunity

Cons: 

  • Can cause eruptions and rashes on the skin
  • Can cause mutagenicity  

TURMERIC

Pros:

  • Acts as an Antioxidant
  • Antitumor activity
  • Promotes Antimicrobial activity
  • Antidiabetic activity 
  • Anti-inflammatory activity
  • Wound healing actions

Cons:

  •  Stains the skin
  • Can cause irritation on dry skin 

NEEM

Pros: 

  • Anti-inflammatory activity
  • Antifungal and antibacterial activity
  • Can be effective against acne 
  • Can be used for pigmentation disorders

Cons:

  • Irritation and rash
  • Neem oil when ingested can cause toxicity  

OLIVE OIL

Pros:

  • Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory
  • Anti carcinogenic activity
  • Antifungal activity

Cons:

  • Can cause comedones/ blackheads in acne prone skin  

COFFEE

Pros:

  • Antioxidant activity
  • Can help reduce fine lines and wrinkles
  • Is used in cellulite treatment

Cons:

  • Coffee berry extracts in creams can cause acne 

TEA TREE

Pros: 

  • Can be used for acne
  • Antifungal activity
  • Has Antidiabetic activity as well

Cons: 

  • Should be avoided in sun exposed skin or in burns as it can hamper healing and cause severe irritation due to its sensitizing potential 

Here is my suggestion: that you make a habit of reading the ingredients of the creams and lotions that you are using.

I have mentioned this earlier that just because a product is natural or organic or home based doesn’t mean it will suit your skin! 

Every skin is unique and it is imperative that you choose a product that suits your skin and gives you long lasting and sustainable results. Meet a dermatologist for any questions you might have.