Most face creams contain petrolatum, mineral oil or glycerin, combined with artificial preservatives, added fragrances and synthetic chemicals that could not be good for your skin. Even a supposedly natural face cream may not be what it seems, at first glance. That kind of label, as well as the ones that say "doctor recommended" are not regulated. They can be used by companies without any sort of proof.

Hypoallergenic is another unregulated term. There are no clear guidelines as to what a hypoallergenic product can and cannot contain. What does all of this mean to you? It means that when you go shopping for face creams, you should be armed with knowledge. That's what I'm here for, to help you learn.

There are different ingredients to look for, depending on whether the product is to be used by men, by women, at night or during the day. So those are the categories that you will see below.

Just for Men

If you shave, the best natural face cream is one that contains soothing witch hazel. If you are out in the sun a lot, either for work or pleasure, you should also look for vitamin B5. Witch haze is a natural astringent that is non-burning, non-irritating, but prevents infection in shaving nicks and cuts. It also has antioxidant activity, important because free radical damage leads to an aged appearance. Antioxidants prevent that.

When you check the label of a natural face cream, don't buy the ones that contain parabens, added fragrances or essential oils. They are common allergens. Essential oils and essential fatty acids are not the same thing. An essential oil is a concentrated plant fragrance and should not be used on the skin.

Just for Women

The best face creams for women to use during the day contain grape seed oil, passion fruit extract, coenzyme Q10, natural vitamin E, wakame kelp extract and palm oil. These are all truly moisturizing ingredients. The average products contain glycerin, which is fine, but only increases moisture content by about 5%. With the combination of ingredients that I mentioned above, researchers have seen a 27% increase in moisture content, as well as an improved ability to retain moisture.

When you read the label on a natural face cream, you should avoid the same things that I mentioned in the men's section.

Nourishing Nighttime Face Creams

Men and women should do the same thing at night; sleep. During sleep the body goes about repairing damage to all of the cells of the body, including the cells of facial skin. If you use the right natural face cream, you can support those rejuvenating processes. All your body needs is nourishment.

Avocado oil provides the vitamins A, D and E, as well as potassium, protein and essential fatty acids. It's just a little too heavy to use during the day. It is however perfect for use at night. Other ingredients are beneficial, as well. It is particularly important that your nighttime face creams be free of irritants and added fragrances, as they can interfere with a good night's sleep. Pleasant dreams!