Give The Gift Of Beautiful Skin This Holiday Season: Why Is Organic Skincare So Important Anyway?

Until very recently buying organic beauty products was seen as a hop, skip and a jump away from embracing your full-on inner-hippy. Organic was theoretically a good idea, but it undoubtedly cost a premium and often involved less than pleasant formulas with a tendency to separate if they were left on your dressing table for too long. Rather fortunately for us, things have changed. Organic skincare is now readily available, as well as being affordable, and provides results that mean you don't have to compromise on efficacy or the sensorial experience that's so closely associated with our beauty regimes. I've never been one to be overly concerned with turning down a product (or meal) because it's not organic, but if we're presented with organic goods that do an equally good (or sometimes better) job then it's a no brainer; why would I want to use an overtly chemical lotion or potion if there was an equally good organic version? If the idea of buying organic still confuses you, here are the main reasons it's worth considering - and why you may want to introduce it to a loved one during the forthcoming gifting season.

Many of our beauty products contain chemicals that are absorbed (to some degree) by our bodies - but they haven’t actually been tested in that capacity. Topical formulations can contain all number of ‘nasties’ that we’re told to avoid (including parabens, formaldehyde, phthalates and petroleum waxes) and we have no idea what negative impact they could have later down the line. Organic beauty products only contain the good stuff and none of the synthetic pesticides often used during the harvesting process. It’s like making a really great recipe using only the best ingredients.

Increasingly as a population we’re becoming intolerant to ingredients that are used in the manufacturing process. If you have rosacea, eczema, acne or any other sensitive skin condition, you may find that opting for a more natural and simple formula will benefit your complexion. Many of us will find our skin is irritated by synthetic fragrances or preservatives, but organic beauty products will be free from them completely.

It’s easy to forget the impact our beauty products have on the environment, but when you buy organic you won’t have to worry about chemicals going down the drain - because there won’t be any in the bottle. Choosing to support brands that source their ingredients ethically and sustainably (as well as those that use biodegradable packaging) is a good choice both now and in the future.

It's tricky to know where to start if you're only just starting to dabble in the idea of buying organic skincare, but a great brand to get on your radar is Avalon Organics. They relentlessly seek out plant-based organic ingredients from only trusted sources; humbled by a profound respect for all living beings, all their products are vegan and cruelty-free (represented by the leaping bunny logo) and their organic agriculture reaches the highest ideal of sustainability (delivering benefits to the soil, to farmers and to the environment.) Furthermore, all the Avalon Organics packaging is made from recycled materials and sustainably sourced paperboard - as well as being recyclable after use. They're a perfect example of a brand that provides affordable beauty products (starting at only £4.49) while providing solutions that are both a pleasure to use and truly effective. (They're all dermatologically tested too.) Although they have a number of hand washes, shampoos, conditioners, skin treats and body lotions to tickle your fancy, this Christmas there are also two special gift sets that are well worth the investment.

Great for anyone seeing the first signs of ageing, this skincare collection contains Avalon Organics Cleansing Gel (with pure botanical cleansers leaving skin fresh and bright,) Renewal Cream (which encourages collagen and elastin production) and an Antioxidant Oil (to reinforce the skin's natural lipid barrier.) The whole range is enriched with Vitamin C, Lemon and White Tea, leaving skin refreshed and vibrant throughout the festive season.

This beautifully scented range utilises prebiotics with lavender and cucumber extracts to enhance youthful radiance; it's even suitable for sensitive skin. Included in this starter kit is a Daily Moisturiser which hydrates skin and improves clarity, a Night Cream to support the skin's overnight repair cycle and an Enzyme Scrub to encourage luminous skin.

Both of these gift sets provide great value and the Avalon Organics products are a pleasure to use. Beautifully scented, quick to absorb, non-greasy and as well presented as any of their more chemically-enriched counterparts, they provide a great introduction into organic beauty without the scary price tag. If you know someone who could do with an introduction to a great skincare regime this Christmas, or you fancy investing in more yourself, then snap these up while you can. Organic skincare is more than a fad or a New Years Resolution - it's a commitment to yourself and the world in which we live. Are you up for the challenge?