Look at the ingredients label of any skin-care product and chances are you will find nature represented by an extract of some kind or other. The growing opposition to animal-derived ingredients in the beauty industry has led to the rediscovery of nature as a source, and the use of plant and herb extracts has grown exponentially. The botanical extracts can help to heal skin conditions such as acne and act as an anti-inflammatory to prevent dry skin. They can also protect against free radicals. It is the cell content of a botanical item that forms the base for extracts. These cells contain a highly organised system of life processes and are a source of such complex substances as proteins, amino acids, oils and fats. The higher the proportion of an active ingredient in a cosmetic, the greater the efficacy.
