If you are re-evaluating your beauty regime, you might be considering a move towards petrochemical-free skin care. While petrochemicals like paraffin, petrolatum and mineral oil are widely used in the beauty industry for their texture-enhancing and shelf-stabilising properties, many people find that plant-based alternatives offer a more supportive experience for the skin.
Rather than providing active nutrients, petrochemicals tend to sit on the surface of the skin, creating a physical barrier.
For those with sensitive or imbalance-prone skin, choosing products rich in botanical oils and extracts can help the skin to breathe while delivering essential fatty acids and antioxidants where they are needed most.
At a glance
- Petrochemical-free formulas allow the skin to breathe and function naturally
- Vita Min Fix 24-Hour Cream is a petrochemical-free moisturiser that provides deep hydration without mineral oils
- Switching to plant-based sun care reduces the risk of 'prickly heat' and clogged pores
- Scent Free Sun Cream SPF30 is a petrochemical-free sunscreen that offers skin-friendly, high protection
- Plant oils like Jojoba and Rosehip actively support the skin barrier
The difference between mineral oils and plant oils
Petrochemicals are derived from crude oil and are highly refined for use in cosmetics. They are popular because they are inexpensive, odourless and very unlikely to cause an allergic reaction. However, they are occlusive, meaning they form a film over the skin. While this can prevent moisture loss, it doesn't "feed" the skin with any vitamins or nutrients.
In contrast, plant-based skin care uses ingredients like Sunflower Oil, Shea Butter and Squalane. These ingredients are bio-compatible, meaning they share similarities with our skin’s natural sebum. They penetrate more effectively to deliver nourishment while still providing that essential protective barrier.
"Nature provides us with everything the skin needs to thrive. By choosing plant-based lipids over mineral oils, we work in harmony with skin rather than simply creating a barrier over its surface."
— Charlotte Vøhtz, Founder of Green People
Petrochemical-free moisturisers for a healthy glow
If you are looking for a daily moisturiser that supports skin elasticity without the use of paraffin, our Vita Min Fix 24-Hour Cream is a cult favourite. This COSMOS Organic certified moisturiser is rich in Baicalin, which is clinically proven to protect and restore the skin’s youthful vitality. It is an ideal choice for those who want a firm, glowing complexion.
Vita Min Fix 24-Hour Cream 50ml
Want to give your skin a daily boost? This is the moisturiser you need£28.00
For those with very reactive skin, the Scent Free 24-Hour Cream is our number one bestseller. It is free from both petrochemicals and fragrance, making it exceptionally kind to sensitive complexions. Dermatologically tested and COSMOS Organic certified, it uses Avocado and Seaweed to maintain moisture balance.
Scent Free 24-Hour Cream 50ml
Healthy skin starts with our bestselling moisturiser for sensitive skin£28.00
You can explore our full range of petrochemical-free moisturisers here.
For more advice on building a routine for delicate skin, see our guide to the best natural ingredients for sensitive skin.
Sunscreen without petrochemicals
Many traditional sunscreens rely heavily on mineral oils to create a water-resistant finish, but this can often lead to "prickly heat" as the skin’s sweat glands become blocked. Choosing a petrochemical-free sunscreen allows your skin to breathe even in the height of summer.
Our Scent Free Sun Cream SPF30 is a natural choice for the body, offering high-factor protection without clogging pores. It is dermatologically tested and contains Aloe Vera and Edelweiss for their soothing, antioxidant properties. It is suitable for those who experience sensitive skin and prickly heat.
Scent Free Sun Cream SPF30 200ml
Protect sensitive skin naturally with our best-selling SPF30 sun cream£33.50
If you are looking for a facial SPF, we recommend the Scent Free Facial Sun Cream SPF30. This non-greasy formula provides a matte finish and is enriched with Green Tea to provide additional protection against oxidative stress. It is a fantastic option for those who find that standard sun creams trigger breakouts or congestion.
Scent Free Facial Sun Cream - SPF30 50ml
Shield and hydrate with this facial SPF. Ideal for dry or sensitive skin.£30.00
Petrochemical-free foundations with tinted DD moisturisers
Many liquid foundations use silicones and petrochemicals to achieve a smooth "slip" on the skin. If you prefer a more natural approach to make-up, our petrochemical-free foundations offer coverage and care in one.
Our Age Defy+ Tinted DD Moisturisers act as a natural BB, CC and SPF15 cream. They use Sea Fennel stem cells and mineral pigments to even skin tone and provide a radiant finish without the heavy, pore-blocking feel of traditional foundation. They are available in both Light and Medium shades.
You can learn more about how these differ from standard foundations in our guide to the benefits of DD Cream.
Nourishing body lotions without paraffin
The skin on our body can easily become dry and damaged if the barrier is compromised. Instead of using paraffin-based lotions, look for petrochemical-free body care that actively repairs the skin.
Our Protein-Boost Hand & Body Lotion is an Organic Food Federation certified formula that is richly reparative. It uses Quinoa protein and Calendula to soothe and repair dry, overworked skin.
Protein-Boost Hand & Body Lotion 200ml
Lock in hydration as you nourish dry skin with this natural body lotion£29.00
If you have particularly sensitive skin, our Scent Free Body Lotion is a dermatologically tested, COSMOS Organic certified option designed for barrier repair and rebalancing.
Scent Free Body Lotion 150ml
Discover deep skin hydration with our soothing, fragrance-free body lotion£30.00
Frequently asked questions
Are petrochemicals safe for skin?
Yes, the petrochemicals used in cosmetics are highly refined and safe for use. However, because they are occlusive, they sit on the surface of the skin. If you struggle with congestion or "sweaty" skin, or if you prefer products with active nutrients, you may find that petrochemical-free skin care is a better fit for your lifestyle.
Can petrochemical-free sunscreen prevent prickly heat?
Prickly heat is often caused by blocked sweat glands. Because many petrochemical-based sunscreens create a waterproof seal, they can trap sweat under the skin. Moving to a natural sunscreen like Scent Free Sun Cream SPF30, which uses plant waxes instead of mineral oils, allows the skin to breathe and can help reduce the frequency of heat rashes.
What should I look for on the label to avoid petrochemicals?
On an ingredient list (INCI), petrochemicals often appear as Paraffinum Liquidum, Petrolatum, Mineral Oil, Cera Microcristallina or Hydrogenated Polyisobutene. In contrast, plant-based products will list botanical names like Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil (Sunflower oil) or Butyrospermum Parkii Butter (Shea butter).
Is plant-based skin care better for the environment?
Plant-based ingredients are renewable resources and are often biodegradable. By choosing petrochemical-free skin care, you are supporting agricultural systems rather than the fossil fuel industry, which is generally considered a more sustainable choice for the planet.
We hope you have found the best petrochemical-free skin care & sunscreen. If you need any more help or advice, our friendly UK customer care team are happy to help on 01403 740350 or on social @GreenPeopleUK.
MEET CHARLOTTE, FOUNDER OF GREEN PEOPLE
Charlotte Vøhtz, founder of Green People, has 25+ years of experience in the natural and organic beauty industry.
A recognised leader in the field of organic beauty, Charlotte helped inform the UK's first organic beauty standards and was voted the People's Choice in the 2023 list of Who's Who in Natural Beauty.
A published author, she wrote the organic beauty bible 'Naturally Gorgeous'. Previously, she qualified as a nurse and spent over 10 years working in pharmaceuticals.
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