While the trend towards seeking out products that contain only natural ingredients continues to rise, Angela Beitz looks into why and explores the potential health benefits.
It’s a fairly well-established school of thought that eating organically and as naturally as possible, thus avoiding pesticides and preservatives, is the healthiest lifestyle choice. But what about outer beauty? Just as you are increasingly concerned about what you put into your body, so it follows that you are also becoming more aware of what you put on your skin.
To find out more about this shift towards the use of natural products, we speak to Rutu Tawde, spa manager of Ahasees Spa at the Grand Hyatt Dubai. ‘We’re definitely getting more guests asking specifically for the ingredients in our products. People are more aware of living a healthy lifestyle and natural products go a long way to satisfying their objective,’ she says. ‘Natural beauty products protect your skin and give a glow to the complexion. They are much better for your skin. The best advice I can offer is to use products with natural ingredients which can neutralise free radicals, protect skin from environmental toxins and combat the visible signs of premature ageing.’
To put this theory to the test, Rutu suggests I try the Signature June Jacobs Spa Collection Facial. Spa Collection products are all paraben and preservative-free. To maintain the levels of quality and standards in manufacturing, June has opened an independent laboratory, June Jacobs Labs.
This facial is a results-orientated treatment designed to immediately revive and illuminate dull, stressed skin with highly concentrated peptides, botanical extracts, skin hydrators and potent antioxidants. Collagen biomatrix face and eye masques impart a fresh, firm and plump feel to the skin for a more youthful appearance.
After the treatment, my skin is positively glowing. It’s worked to get the circulation in my skin going again and the products also have an entirely natural odour. After my facial, Rutu explains why it’s so important to use natural ingredients on our skin. ‘Achieving beauty the way nature intended is easy, thanks to products with ingredients that come straight from the earth. Natural ingredients are more pure and softer on the skin and recent studies show that parabens may cause cancer, allergic reactions and skin rashes. Always make sure your product does not include any parabens or preservatives. Once you stop using products that do, you will see a difference.’
Finally, Rutu explains the importance of maintaining a healthy beauty regime and how to keep looking after my skin at home. ‘Your skin’s health can reflect the situation of your entire body and emotional circumstances. A healthy lifestyle would help to prevent major damage to your skin. To improve your daily programme, include an efficient fitness schedule created by a personal trainer according to your needs. Protect your skin by using natural cosmetic products on a daily basis. Enjoy healthy food wherever you are and make sure the ingredients were chosen wisely. Everybody loves to have a radiant look.’
June Jacobs Signature Spa Collection Facial, Dhs600 for 90 minutes. Ahasees Spa, Grand Hyatt Dubai (04 317 2333).
Others to try
Spas that are all-natural in Dubai
Talise Spa
Home to the mineral-rich Sodashi skincare range.
Madinat Jumeirah (04 366 6818).
The Organic Glow Beauty Lounge
Uses non-toxic products including Vegan nail polish range Zoya.
Al Wasl Road 594, Jumeirah 3, Opposite Safa Park (04 380 4666).
Cleopatra’s Spa
The Egyptian-themed spa now stocks all natural Shiffa products.
Pyramids at Wafi (04 324 7700).
