A Sensitive Subject

Sarah Heenan, natural beauty therapist and founder of online organic beauty boutique, www.lucyrose.biz, takes a look at the issues around skin sensitivities.


The last decade has seen a dramatic rise in both sensitised skin and allergic reactions. Most skin responses to cosmetics are a result of skin sensitisation, which happens when the ingredients penetrate the skin too quickly and the skin’s natural barrier function is impaired.

Once the product is removed from the skin the reaction will subside. In most instances of skin allergy, the skin can become itchy, inflamed and sore. Many mainstream products made with harsh chemical ingredients and synthetic compounds will exaggerate these symptoms.

Why go natural?

One of the biggest reasons people turn to organic and natural products is because they find high street products over-fragranced and harsh. Organic and natural cosmetics have no harmful chemicals (parabens or petro-chemicals) or artificial fragrances. Quite simply, the ingredients are all chosen to be effective, gentle and to help the skin work naturally.

The good news is that, for people who suffer with sensitive skin, these natural options are unlikely to cause reactions. Today there are hundreds of fantastic organic and natural products available which are just as effective as their high street equivalents. Furthermore, by using these products we are helping to protect our planet for future generations.

Know your ingredients

It is possible that occasionally some people can experience allergies to completely organic ingredients (e.g. sensitivity to certain Essential Oils). Organic and natural brands are very transparent in their communications and include a comprehensive list of ingredients so you can see at a glance what is in the product you are using. Thankfully, for those who are sensitive to essential oils, there are now products free from natural fragrances and herbal flower extracts such as Lavera Neutral and Green People's Organic Base No Scent collection.

Clear labelling also helps with checking the source of ingredients especially with fragrances. For example, Limonene is the term used for the synthetic fragrance, Lemon, but is also the name for Lemon Essential Oil. In order to differentiate, there is usually an asterisk or a comment next to the ingredient, stating ‘from natural essential oils’.

Switching to natural

A few people find that when switching to more natural ingredients they experience a detox period where the body adjusts and the skin may feel uncomfortable or ‘break out’. This usually lasts no longer than a week and once the skin has adjusted it will feel better than ever. It is also important to remember that each of us is individual and hence our skin requirements are very specific. For this reason, Lucy Rose provides customers with both a personal consultation service and the opportunity to 'try before you buy.'

Story of Cosmetics

mohdoh - mouldable aromatherapy

mohdoh™ combines three therapeutic elements, proven to produce positive results; aromatherapy, play therapy and colour therapy.

It is these three elements that make mohdoh™ such a powerful holistic therapy. All oils are pure oils and no artificial fragrances are used . Some people may have allergies to certain oils, so care should be taken. Under 3's should be supervised

The dough is NOT tested on animals. mohdoh™ is 100% non-toxic.

Trilogy Skincare Products

Designed around the trilogy of simplicity, purity and vitality, Trilogy is New Zealand’s no.1 natural skin and hair care range.

Recognised for its commitment to environmental and ethical responsibility, this high-performance, fuss free, versatile and accessibly priced range combines the purest Certified Organic Rosehip Oil with powerful natural ingredients for ‘maximum effect on your skin and minimum effect on our environment™ ’.


View the whole Trilogy Skincare range

New Instore - My Age - by Lavera

This Faces range offers rich anti-wrinkle care for noticeably firmer skin, using the powerful natural ingredients of White Tea and Karanja Oil.

This range is an affordable natural anti-ageing range of products which is effective and luxurious.

Certified organic by NaTrue and Vegan Society Certified.

New Instore - Simply Gentle

Organic Cotton Wool Products - by Simply Gentle
A range of cotton wool products certified by the Soil Association.

New Instore - ORGANYC

Feminine Hygiene Products - by Organyc

Organyc is ideal for women who want to avoid any contact with synthetic materials on the skin and feel fresh, safe and clean, while choosing a product without any negative effect on the environment.

Over 80% of women who react to contact with plastic and synthetic materials have reported that they prefer Organyc. The natural cotton fibres of Organyc are skin-friendly, breathable and pH neutral.

You will feel the benefits of cotton within the first month of use.

Soil Association Certified. Biodegradable

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