When you’re choosing skincare, those labels - natural, plant-based, synthetic, lab-made - can feel a bit overwhelming.

At first glance, it’s tempting to think natural automatically means better and synthetic means harsh or artificial. But the truth is a little more nuanced… and understanding the difference can help you make choices that truly support your skin and your values.

Natural ingredients come directly from plants, minerals, or other naturally occurring sources. Think carrier oils, hydrosols, clay, herbal extracts, and our fav - essential oils. These ingredients often carry a rich synergy of vitamins, antioxidants, and aromatic compounds that work beautifully with the skin.

Because they’re closer to their whole, unaltered form, they can offer gentle nourishment and a sense of connection to nature that many people love. However, it's important that we acknowledge that natural ingredients can vary from batch to batch due to growing conditions, seasons, and extraction methods. This makes quality sourcing and good formulation practices essential.

Synthetic ingredients are created or modified in a lab. While that may sound intimidating, many synthetics are actually designed to mimic beneficial natural molecules... just in a more stable, consistent, and predictable way.

They can have longer shelf lives, lighter textures, and reduced allergen potential. Here at Sage, we recognise that not all synthetics are 'bad'; in fact, some are incredibly skin-friendly, like panthenol (pro-vitamin B5) or hyaluronic acid. 

The key is understanding which synthetics are clean, safe, and purposeful... and which ones you’d prefer to avoid.

One of the biggest differences comes down to philosophy. Natural skincare leans into simplicity, transparency, and the power of botanicals. Synthetic-inclusive skincare focuses on specific performance and stability. 

Many retail brands - including thoughtful natural-leaning ones - use a blend of both to strike the right balance of safety, efficacy, and sensory appeal. Think Aesop, Natio and Jurlique. 

So, what’s best? It truly depends on your skin, your preferences, and your values. Natural skincare offers a beautiful, holistic experience rooted in tradition and botanicals. Synthetic ingredients can provide reliability and innovation. 

When you understand both sides, you’re empowered to choose products that feel good for you. If you'd like to learn how to make your own Natural Skincare, we invite you to join us at one of our upcoming workshops.