Synthetic or chemically derived ingredients in skincare should not be feared; they are often more stable, better studied, and safer for the skin than naturally derived alternatives.

noli's read

Research in cosmetic formulation validates this scientific approach. Expert reports from the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) highlight that so-called 'natural' plant extracts are frequently the cause of irritation and skin reactions due to their complex and variable composition. Furthermore, the European Union's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) evaluates ingredients based on their purity and toxicity profiles, without distinction based on origin, confirming that 'natural' is not synonymous with 'safe.' Synthetic chemistry allows for the purification of active ingredients, the guarantee of their stability, and the elimination of potential impurities or allergens present in raw plant materials. Thus, the assertion that synthetic molecules are often better studied and safer for the skin barrier is scientifically grounded.

the sources

No named source held this one up — that absence is part of the verdict.