Beautifully Sustainable: The Benefits of Using Soy in Health and Beauty Products
Soy is a natural, sustainable alternative to harsh chemicals in health and beauty products. Not only can creating soy-based products improve product performance through the isoflavones found in soy, but it can also build brand loyalty among consumers.
From lotions and creams to shampoos and body washes, soy can be found in a variety of beauty products. Soy-derived products offer a natural alternative to those containing artificial ingredients, but without harshness and toxicity.
Why soy?
Soybean oil has natural conditioning and antioxidant properties, making it a functional and sustainable alternative to the harsh chemicals found in many of today’s beauty products. Besides decreasing consumers’ exposure to harmful toxins, with the help of isoflavones, fatty acids, and proteins that are found in soy, soy-based beauty products may provide the following benefits:
- Boosts hair health
- Improves nail health
- Repairs the skin barrier
- Reduces the appearance of aging
- Increases collagen production
Consumers aren’t the only ones who can benefit from soy-based beauty. Manufacturers can create a product of high performance while also increasing customer satisfaction by focusing on sustainable, soy-based beauty.
Increase product performance
Using soy can increase a product’s sustainability without sacrificing quality and performance. Just like its artificial counterparts, the isoflavones, protein and fatty acids found in soy may effectively moisturize, cleanse and tone. Unlike artificial ingredients, however, the nutrients in soy will not likely cause dryness, irritation or toxicity when used.
Create higher customer satisfaction
More than half of U.S. consumers over age 18 prefer to use products that are naturally derived and environmentally friendly. Substituting artificial ingredients for soy-based ones can help drive customer engagement and build brand loyalty. Consumers who feel shared values with the brands they use are more likely to use — and share — the brand’s products.
Soy-derived products
Here are just a few of the soy-derived products on the market today that offer an alternative to conventional products with artificial ingredients.
Creams and lotions
The nutrients found in soy help retain moisture and boost collagen production, making it great for skincare products. Because of this, creams and lotions containing soy are great for all skin types, including those with skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis.
Check out: Soy of Life Soft as Silk Hand & Body Creme
Facial moisturizers
Using soy as a primary ingredient in facial moisturizers may improve the overall look and feel of skin. Soy, containing proteins and lipids, may also help brighten the complexion, improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of fine lines and combat redness and discoloration for a healthy, youthful glow.
Check out: Aveeno Positively Radiant Daily Moisturizer
Body wash
The components in soybean oil have natural surfactant properties. When used in body wash, the nutrients in soy helps create a cleansing lather that leaves skin feeling clean, refreshed and moisturized.
Check out: Skin Apothetique IRIS Soy Body Wash
Facial cleanser
Perfect for all skin types – even sensitive skin – soy facial cleanser effectively removes dirt and makeup without leaving skin feeling dry or irritated. Instead, users are left with a smooth, soft, moisturized complexion.
Check out: Fresh Soy Makeup-Removing Face Wash
Hair care
Soy protein can be found in many hair products, thanks to its ability to absorb quickly into the hair shaft. This creates stronger hair that’s less prone to breakage.
Check out: Mila Rose Nourishing Shampoo w/Soy Protein & Neroli
Nail polish remover
Soy-based nail polish remover can help remove natural polish without the need for drying ingredients like alcohol or acetone. Instead, nails are left feeling healthy, moisturized and polish-free, thanks to the help of Vitamins A, C & E.
Check out: ella + mila Soy Polish Remover