An organic bathroom
This week we are opening the doors to the bathroom cabinet as part of our Organic September journey through our house.
While we are all conscious of the health impacts of the food we eat, we may not be as aware of the products we put on our bodies.
Many beauty products found on supermarket and pharmacy shelves contain a cocktail of harmful chemicals, including parabens, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances, which have been linked to health concerns ranging from skin irritation to hormone disruption.
As awareness of these potential dangers grows, the shift towards clean, organic beauty products becomes more important than ever.
To help us navigate this complex landscape, we were delighted to sit down with Emma Griffiths, the Co-Founder at Of Nature, a family-run organic beauty company dedicated to crafting skincare that’s free from harmful toxins and made with 100% natural ingredients.
In this Q&A, we’ll explore the benefits of cleaning up your beauty routine, uncover the hidden dangers in conventional products, and discover how Of Nature is leading the way in creating safer, healthier options for your skin.
Image: Of NatureWhere did the inspiration for Of Nature come from?
"The inspiration for Of Nature came from a desire to return to simplicity and reconnect with the natural world. Living in Wales, surrounded by stunning landscapes, we felt compelled to create skincare products that reflected the purity and balance found in nature. As someone with sensitive skin myself, I struggled to find products that were gentle enough, especially because alcohol in many skincare products often triggered irritation for me. This personal challenge fuelled my passion to create products that are not only natural but also kind to sensitive skin. We saw a need for formulas that nourish the skin using only what the earth provides—without unnecessary chemicals or additives. Our goal has always been to create skincare that is as gentle on skin as it is on the planet, offering a holistic approach rooted in sustainability and authenticity."What is the importance of using organic on your skin?
"Your skin is your body’s largest organ, and it absorbs much of what you put on it. Using organic skincare means avoiding exposure to harmful pesticides, chemicals, and synthetic ingredients. Instead, you’re treating your skin with pure, naturally sourced ingredients that work in harmony with your body’s own processes. Organic ingredients are often richer in antioxidants, vitamins, and essential fatty acids, which can lead to healthier, more radiant skin. Importantly, organic farming practices are also gentler on the environment, making the choice to go organic beneficial for both your skin and the planet."
Image: Of Nature
What ingredients should we be looking out for that could be damaging to our health?
"There are several common ingredients in conventional skincare products that may cause harm over time. A few to be mindful of include:Parabens: Used as preservatives, parabens have been linked to hormone disruption and should be avoided.
Phthalates: Often found in fragrances, these chemicals may affect reproductive health and hormone balance.
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS): A foaming agent that can irritate the skin and strip away its natural oils.
Synthetic fragrances and dyes: These can trigger allergies, skin irritations, and sometimes even more serious health issues.
Mineral oil: While often used in moisturisers, mineral oil is derived from petroleum and can clog pores and prevent the skin from breathing properly.
Sticking to organic, natural products ensures you’re avoiding these potentially harmful substances."
If people can only afford to make one small organic change to their beauty routine, apart from your products, what would you recommend?
"If you can only make one change, I’d recommend switching to an organic cleanser. Cleansing is the foundation of any skincare routine, and since you’re using it daily, possibly twice a day, it is important to choose a product that’s free from harsh chemicals. An organic cleanser will gently clean without stripping your skin of its natural oils or exposing it to harmful toxins. This one switch can make a big difference in maintaining healthy, balanced skin."
Do you have any tips for a clean skincare routine?
"Absolutely! Here are a few tips for keeping your skincare routine clean and effective:- Simplify: You don’t need dozens of products. Stick to a few high-quality, organic essentials.
- Know your ingredients: Read labels carefully and aim to use products with ingredients you can recognize and understand.
- Stay hydrated: Beauty starts from within. Drink plenty of water, and incorporate nutrient-dense, skin-loving foods into your diet.
- Exfoliate gently: Organic exfoliants, like organic rosehip shell powder help remove dead skin cells without tearing and damaging your skin’s barrier.
- Consistency is key: A simple, clean routine that you stick to regularly will do wonders for your skin."
Do you have a favourite organic company you'd like to share?
"Yes, we’re huge fans of Car Y Mor, a registered community benefit society in West Wales. A seaweed and shellfish farm that has zero input farming that uses no fertiliser, pesticides, or freshwater. Their goal is to improve the coastal environment and the well-being of the local community, through regenerative ocean farming and sustainable job creation."
