The Loving Nature Ingredients

Ingredients we use

Our products are made with natural ingredients, and wherever possible, we choose certified organic ingredients. The Loving Nature ingredients are marked with an asterisk (*) in the ingredient list of each product. All our products are made with cruelty free and vegan friendly ingredients, except the ones containing Beeswax. We only source from suppliers who prioritise sustainability and hive welfare, and we always list beeswax clearly in our ingredients so that you can make informed choices.

We carefully select suppliers who meet the highest quality standards, such as raw, unrefined and pure. We only use suppliers that campaign for healthy, humane and sustainable food, farming and land use. They are all registered and certified by The Leaping Bunny (Cruelty-Free), The Soil Association (Organic) or The Vegan Society (Vegan).

If you would like to learn more about why we choose natural and organic ingredients in our formulations, we invite you to read our guide on why choosing organic skincare and hair care matters. In this article, we share the reasons behind our commitment to safer, gentler alternatives, how organic formulations support skin and hair health, and why many people are moving towards more natural choices.

Why ingredients matter

Research, like this one from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, for example, highlights how endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in personal care products can affect health. These chemicals enter the body through the skin or by inhalation and have been linked to early puberty, menstrual irregularities, hormone-related conditions, and metabolic issues such as obesity and diabetes. The study also points out that certain groups of women, particularly Black, Hispanic, and Asian communities, are disproportionately affected due to differences in hair and product use. This makes ingredient awareness and research important. This is why, even though many harmful ingredients are banned or restricted under UK law, we choose to go further by excluding any that raise concerns.

Ingredients on labels

Sometimes the names of ingredients on product labels can look complicated, but there’s a clear reason behind them. In the UK, cosmetic products must follow the INCI system (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients), just as in the EU and many other regions. This is a global standard based on Latin and scientific names, designed so you can quickly identify what’s inside and check for any allergens or sensitivities.

Every cosmetic sold in the UK must list its full INCI ingredients. This not only ensures transparency but also helps reduce the risk of allergic reactions by declaring known fragrance allergens at the end of the list when they appear above certain trace amounts. Examples include Geraniol, Limonene, Citronellol, Eugenol, and Benzyl Benzoate, all of which occur naturally in essential oils. For instance, Benzyl Benzoate is a natural part of Ylang-Ylang Oil, while Limonene, Geraniol, and Citronellol are found in Rose Oil, and Eugenol is abundant in Clove Oil.

Our skin and hair care products (with INCI names)

Ingredients we don’t use (and you should avoid too)

When it comes to skincare, what we leave out is just as important as what we put in. Some of these ingredients are already banned or restricted under UK law, while others are still legally allowed, but we choose not to use them. Here’s a simple breakdown:

BHA & BHT

  • Status in the UK: BHT is restricted to low levels; BHA is banned in cosmetics.
  • Why we avoid: Both are synthetic preservatives linked to irritation and potential long-term concerns. We prefer natural antioxidants like Vitamin E.

DEA, MEA & TEA

  • Status in the UK: DEA is banned; MEA and TEA are restricted in certain uses due to nitrosamine risks.
  • Why we avoid: These foaming/pH agents can react with other ingredients to form harmful by-products.

Phthalates

  • Status in the UK: Several phthalates (DBP, DEHP, BBP, DIBP) are banned; DEP remains permitted.
  • Why we avoid: Used to fix fragrance. Concerns about hormone disruption and reproductive effects mean we steer clear of all of them.

Formaldehyde-Releasing Preservatives

  • Status in the UK: Formaldehyde is banned; some releasers (like DMDM hydantoin) are restricted but still allowed in rinse-off products.
  • Why we avoid: Known irritants and allergens that can trigger dermatitis, even at low levels.

Parabens

  • Status in the UK: Some parabens (like propyl and butyl) are restricted; others (methyl and ethyl) are still permitted.
  • Why we avoid: They can mimic hormones in lab studies. Many people prefer paraben-free products, so we formulate without them.

Parfum / Synthetic Fragrance

  • Status in the UK: Allowed, but allergens must be declared on labels if above trace levels.
  • Why we avoid: “Parfum” can mask dozens of undisclosed chemicals. It’s one of the most common causes of cosmetic sensitivity.

We never use synthetic fragrances or “parfum,” which can hide dozens of undisclosed chemicals. Instead, every scent in our range comes only from pure essential oils or natural extracts. This means our products are naturally aromatic, gentle on sensitive skin, and fully transparent. What’s on the label is what you get.

PEGs & Glycols

  • Status in the UK: Permitted.
  • Why we avoid: Useful as carriers, but they can contain impurities (like 1,4-dioxane) if not highly purified. We choose simpler alternatives.

Petrolatum & Mineral Oil

  • Status in the UK: Permitted if highly refined and free from harmful contaminants.
  • Why we avoid: Very occlusive, can feel heavy and block pores. We prefer breathable, plant-based oils and butters.

SLS & SLES

  • Status in the UK: Permitted.
  • Why we avoid: Strong detergents that can strip skin’s natural oils and irritate sensitive or eczema-prone skin. We use gentler cleansers.

We never use harsh foaming agents like SLS (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate) or SLES (Sodium Laureth Sulfate). Instead, our shampoos and conditioners use gentle coconut-derived surfactants such as Decyl Glucoside and Lauryl Betaine, which cleanse without stripping and are kinder to sensitive skin.

Triclosan

  • Status in the UK: Banned in leave-on products; restricted in others.
  • Why we avoid: Concerns about antibiotic resistance and hormone disruption. Not needed in safe skincare.

Our promise

Whether an ingredient is banned, restricted, or legally allowed, we don’t use it if it raises concerns. Instead, we choose safe, natural alternatives that respect both your skin and the planet. We believe what’s left out is just as important as what goes in. These choice reflects the principles we live by at The Loving Nature. You can read more on our story, mission and values page.

Ingredients glossary

Here’s a comprehensive list of all the natural and organic ingredients we use in our products, including some key properties and benefits. Each of them has been carefully chosen and assessed for safety by a qualified cosmetic safety assessor and chartered chemist.

Base ingredients and their benefits

  • Argania Spinosa (Argan Oil) – Nourishing, Tonifying, Hair growth stimulation, Moisturising
  • Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter) – Moisturising, Anti-inflammatory, Skin conditioning, Viscosity controlling
  • Camellia Oleifera (Camellia Oil) – Regenerating and renewing, Nourishing, Antioxidant, Skin conditioning
  • Cera Alba (Beeswax) – Anti-inflammatory, Antibacterial and Antiviral, Emulsifying, Viscosity controlling
  • Cocos Nucifera (Coconut Oil) – Detoxifying, Antibacterial, Nourishing, Soothing Moisturiser, Skin conditioning
  • Manioc Starch (Tapioca) and Maranta Arundinacea (Arrowroot) – Moisture absorber, Skin conditioning, Emulsifying, Thickening
  • Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond Oil) – Anti-inflammatory, Skin cell production, Emollient, Conditioning
  • Ricinus Communis (Castor Oil) – Cleanser, Astringent, Nourishing, Emollient, Skin conditioning
  • Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba Oil) – Emollient, Anti-inflammatory, Anti-fungal and Antibacterial, Hair and skin conditioning
  • Sodium Bicarbonate (Bicarbonate of Soda) – Deodorant agent (neutralises odour), Bacteria inhibitor, pH adjuster
  • Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa Butter) – Natural antioxidant, Soothing Moisturiser, Skin conditioning
  • Tocopherol (Vitamin E Oil) – Anti-ageing, Nourishing, Antioxidant, Skin conditioning agent
  • Vitis Vinifera (Grape Seed Oil) – Hair growth stimulation, Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory, Moisturising
  • Capsicum Frutescens (Cayenne Pepper Powder) – A potent external natural pain reliever. Helps with muscle pain, joint pain, fibromyalgia, back pain, arthritis pain, nerve pain, pain after surgery, etc.
  • Calendula Officinalis (Calendula Flower Petals) – Antifungal, Anti-inflammatory, Antibacterial and Antiseptic properties. Useful in healing wounds, soothing eczema, and relieving diaper rash, etc.

Pure essential oils and their benefits

  • Abies Sibirica (Pine) – Antibacterial, Analgesic, Energising, Antiseptic, and Aromatic properties
  • Amyris Balsamifera (Sandalwood) – Calming effect, Hydrating, Astringent, Anti-inflammatory, Tension-relieving
  • Cananga Odorata (Ylang Ylang) – Skin cell production, Antiseptic, Sebum balancing effect, Tension relieving
  • Cedrus Atlantica (Cedarwood) – Oxygenates cells, Antifungal and Antiseptic, Reduces irritation, Stimulates hair follicles, Refreshing
  • Cinnamomum Zeylanicum (Cinnamon) – Antibacterial, Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant, Uplifting scent
  • Citrus Aurantifolia (Lime) – Refreshing and cooling, as well as Antibacterial, Anti-fungal and Antiseptic properties
  • Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) – Stimulating properties (blood circulation), Anti-microbial and Antiseptic, Calming effect
  • Coffea Arabica (Coffee) Seed Oil – Hair growth stimulation, Stimulating and Uplifting
  • Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Sweet Orange) – Antimicrobial, Antiseptic and Anti-inflammatory, Anti-ageing and Antidepressant.
  • Citrus Medica Limonum (Lemon) – Detoxifying, Refreshing, Energising and Uplifting scent
  • Cymbopogon Schoenanthus (Lemongrass) – Skin cleanser, Antiseptic and Astringent, Pain reliever
  • Citrus Nobilis Peel Oil (Red Mandarin) – Cooling, Antibacterial, Anti-fungal and antiseptic, Skin cell production
  • Eucalyptus Globulus (Eucalyptus) – Anti-ageing, Anti-inflammatory, Deodorant, Antibacterial, Pain reliever
  • Eugenia Caryophyllata (Clove Bud) – Refreshing and Cooling, Antibacterial, Anti-fungal and Antiseptic
  • Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) – Anti-inflammatory, Soothing, Calming, Sensory Enhancer
  • Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) – Antiseptic and Anti-inflammatory, Soothing
  • Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) – Tonic, Refreshing and Cooling, Antibacterial, Anti-fungal and Antiseptic
  • Pelargonium Graveolens (Rose Geranium) – Soothing, Calming, Refreshing and cooling, Antibacterial, Anti-fungal and Antiseptic
  • Pogostemon Cablin (Patchouli) – Astringent and Anti-fungal, Hair growth stimulation, Tissue regenerator, Soothing
  • Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) – Hair growth stimulation, Soothing, Conditioning, Antimicrobial, Refreshing, Tonic
  • Salvia Sclarea (Clary Sage) – Tonic, Soothing, Improving mood, Antiseptic, Anti-inflammatory, Anaesthetic effect
  • Vetiveria Zizanioides (Vetiver) – Energy boost, Stimulating and Soothing effect, Skin cell production, Regenerating
  • Zingiber officinale (Ginger) Essential Oil – Strong warming and stimulating properties. Activates and enhances the healing properties of other ingredients

FAQs about natural and organic skincare ingredients

Why are natural skincare ingredients better for sensitive skin?

Natural and organic skincare ingredients are gentler on sensitive skin because they avoid harsh chemicals like SLS, parabens, or synthetic fragrance. Plant oils, butters, and botanical extracts provide nourishment without irritation. This makes them ideal for UK customers who want effective skincare with fewer allergens.

What does INCI mean on skincare labels?

INCI stands for International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients. It’s the global standard for listing ingredients on UK and EU cosmetics. Using Latin and scientific names ensures transparency, so you can easily identify what’s in your product and check for potential allergens.

Do The Loving Nature products use certified organic ingredients?

Yes, wherever possible. Many of our oils, butters, and extracts are certified organic and vegan-friendly. We only work with UK and EU suppliers who follow strict ethical and sustainability standards, so you can trust the quality of our ingredients.

Which skincare ingredients should I avoid?

Ingredients like parabens, phthalates, synthetic fragrance, and SLS/SLES can cause irritation or long-term concerns. While some are still legally allowed in the UK, The Loving Nature chooses not to use them. Instead, we rely on safe, natural alternatives such as shea butter, coconut oil, and pure essential oils.

Are essential oils safe to use in skincare?

Yes, when used correctly. All essential oils in our products are included in safe concentrations and are listed with their INCI names. Some contain naturally occurring allergens like limonene or linalool, which must be declared under UK law. We’re transparent about these so you can make informed choices.