
Everyone wants radiant, healthy skin, but avoiding toxic additives in skincare is a difficult task. Amidst all that confusion sits a surprising truth: some of the most powerful skin-repairing ingredients are local, familiar, and everywhere around us.
We have curated a list of 5 Nigerian natural skincare ingredients that support healthy skin. Number 5 will greatly interest you, and you won’t believe how much your skin has been missing out.
- Coconut Oil
It is rich in lauric acid, a medium-chain fatty acid that melts into your skin and helps lock in moisture. Capric acid is also a key element that helps to hydrate and protect the skin barrier. The lauric and capric acids in coconut oil possess antimicrobial properties that can kill bacteria responsible for causing acne, redness, and other infections.
Want to look younger and reduce the appearance of fine lines? Coconut oil contains antioxidants like Vitamin E that fight free radicals and prevent premature ageing.
Plus, it can be used as a natural makeup remover!
- Shea Butter
Rich in fatty acids and vitamins, Shea Butter helps to moisturise and soften the skin, making it great for dry or rough patches. Despite having moisturising properties, Shea butter helps balance natural oil production on the skin, making it suitable for both dry and oily skin types. It contains antioxidants, particularly vitamins A and E, which help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals and promote collagen production.
In addition to these, it can be used to calm and soothe razor burn.
- Camwood
Popularly called Osun in Yoruba, Uhíé in Igbo, and Majigi in Hausa, Camwood is derived from the heartwood of the African Sandalwood tree. When finely ground, its red powder gently exfoliates and refines skin texture without damaging sensitive skin. It helps treat acne, brightens the complexion, reduces the appearance of wrinkles, and evens out skin tone.
Camwood also contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that improve circulation and remove toxins and free radicals from the skin.
- Hibiscus
Did you know the hibiscus flower is called zobo in Hausa, ìsápá in Yoruba, and arírè in Igbo?
If you already knew that, let’s try another one.
Did you know that Hibiscus is very rich in vitamin C, so much that it is nicknamed “Nature’s Botox?? A high amount of vitamin C is required to boost collagen production, and collagen, in turn, is responsible for maintaining skin elasticity, preventing elastin degradation, and firming the skin.
It has moisturising and hydrating properties that help retain and lock in moisture. The natural surfactant properties in hibiscus can cleanse pores without stripping the skin of its natural oils. Regular use of hibiscus helps to calm acne breakouts, soothe irritated skin and reduce redness.
- Moringa Oil
It is rich in oleic acid, omega fatty acids, vitamins A and C, which help the skin retain moisture and feel soft. The oil strengthens the skin’s natural barrier, which helps prevent moisture loss and blocks pollutants. The vitamin A it contains plays a role in collagen production, which helps keep the skin firm. The vitamins are also responsible for aiding in the healing of tired and damaged skin cells and protecting the skin from pollutants and UV rays.
It has antimicrobial and antiseptic properties that can help fight acne-causing bacteria.
Bringing Nature’s Best to Your Skincare Routine
The beauty of modern skincare is in smart use and combinations of natural skincare ingredients. At Topwidecare, we believe in harnessing this wisdom. We carefully blend these potent, natural ingredients into our formulations, creating products that deliver real, noticeable results.
It’s the perfect blend of nature and thoughtful science, designed to give your skin the best.
Click here to explore product options.