Beauty

The most commonly flagged ingredients in conventional beauty products are parabens (preservatives linked to hormone disruption), synthetic fragrance (can contain hundreds of undisclosed chemicals including allergens), PEGs (penetration enhancers derived from petrochemicals), oxybenzone in sunscreens (harmful to coral reefs), and mineral oil (a petroleum by-product used as a cheap filler). EcoWarehouse beauty products avoid these ingredients.

Mineral sunscreens using zinc oxide or titanium dioxide provide broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection and are effective when applied correctly and reapplied regularly every two hours. They sit on the skin surface rather than absorbing into the bloodstream. Newer mineral sunscreen formulas have largely eliminated the white cast associated with older versions.

Clean beauty refers to products formulated without ingredients considered harmful to human health or the environment. There is no regulated definition in New Zealand, which means the term can be misused. At EcoWarehouse, a product earns a place in the beauty range by avoiding parabens, synthetic fragrance, PEGs, and other unnecessary synthetics, using minimal or recyclable packaging, and being cruelty-free. We look at the ingredient list rather than marketing claims.

Generally yes. Conventional beauty products frequently contain synthetic fragrance, preservatives, and surfactants that are common triggers for sensitive skin reactions. Natural formulations with short, recognisable ingredient lists and no synthetic fragrance are typically much better tolerated by sensitive, eczema-prone, or reactive skin.

Natural cosmetics without synthetic preservatives do tend to have shorter shelf lives, typically 6 to 12 months after opening. Products with vitamin C, retinol equivalents, or oils can oxidise if exposed to air and light. Store natural skincare in cool, dark conditions and look for products in pump or tube packaging that limits air exposure.

Natural beauty products use ingredients derived from natural sources (plants, minerals, clays) rather than synthetic chemicals. Organic beauty products specifically use ingredients grown and processed without synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or fertilisers, typically verified by a certification body. Not all natural products are organic, but organic products are generally natural. Both are preferable to conventional synthetic formulations for most skin types.