This year we ran a 50-Day natural Skincare Challenge to gain some vital feedback on our skincare range… and the results are in!
The objective for our participants was to stop using mainstream skincare, and to use only 100% natural, certified organic skincare from INIKA Organic, for 50 days. Using only botanical ingredients initiates a skin purging process whereby synthetic chemicals are detoxed from the skin. After this time, we asked participants to share the negatives and the positives
Here’s what the participants thought about switching to a natural and simple skincare routine with just three INIKA Organic products...
The challenge
For this challenge, we asked over 500 women to follow a simple 3-step skincare routine every morning and night for 50 days (or 7 weeks). To track the results, they were tasked with recording any changes in their skin after using those certified organic products.
The participants were all females aged between 25 and 59, and located in different areas around Australia. They described themselves as “healthy lifestyle seekers'' who cared about their environmental impact, but they were new to INIKA and weren’t familiar with our products.
The routine
The skincare routine consisted of three products from our anti-ageing and super hydrating skincare range. They’re formulated with natural ingredients that nourish and hydrate the skin, minimising the appearance of wrinkles and increasing skin elasticity to achieve younger-looking skin.
These three INIKA products also work to protect the skin from everyday pollutants, such as smoke and chemicals. They help strengthen the skin’s lipid barrier to lock in moisture and stop environmental aggressors from coming into contact with skin cells.
Step 1: Phytofuse Renew Camellia Oil Cleanser
With antioxidant-rich Camellia Oil, Shea Butter and Rose of Jericho, the Phytofuse Renew Camellia Oil Cleanser lifts impurities without stripping the skin of its natural oils. The cream cleanser has a unique silicone brush that gently massages the skin to unclog pores. It also prevents you from transferring bacteria back into your skin while you’re cleansing, because bacteria can’t survive on silicone.
We asked the participants to use our cream cleanser in the morning to remove any sweat or oil that may have accumulated overnight, and then cleanse in the evening to rid the skin of pollutants, sunscreen, makeup and excess oil, and the second deep-cleans the skin.
Step 2: Phyto-Active Botanical Face Oil
Next, the participants applied the Phyto-Active Botanical Face Oil over their face and allowed it to absorb. Made up of 14 beautiful, plant-based oils, this oil deeply moisturises and nourishes the skin without leaving a greasy residue. Thanks to its fatty acids, this is one of the best face oils to balance out sebum production, combat breakouts and promote plump, healthy skin.
The botanical skincare oil is lightweight and suitable for all skin types, even oily and congested. Participants with dry skin could apply it both morning and night, and those with oily skin, could apply at night for skin regeneration.
Step 3: Phytofuse Renew Maca Root Day Cream
Moisturisers create a barrier on top of your skin, which is why it’s a good idea to apply them as the last step in your routine. For the 50-day challenge, participants applied the Phytofuse Renew Maca Root Day Cream twice a day.
Infused with Rose of Jericho (aka “the miracle plant”), the cream seals in moisture, assists in firming the skin and shields the skin from pollutants that can clog pores and lead to premature ageing. It’s intensely hydrating and absorbs quickly, making it a good moisturiser for dry skin.
Before the challenge
A week before the challenge was set to start, we asked participants to describe their skin and their main skin concerns. Most women said they had combination skin, and were dealing with dryness, dullness and uneven skin tone. Others said they were prone to blemishes and pigmentation.
We also asked a few questions to get an idea of their knowledge about the skin, like how long does it take for skin to renew itself? Interestingly, over 65% of participants didn’t know the skin cells turn over every 6 weeks! The cycle starts when a new skin cell forms at the deepest layer of the epidermis, and ends when the cell works its way to the surface of the skin and matures. At that point, the skin cell flakes off, and the skin cell turnover cycle starts over.
If you’re switching to a 100% natural skincare routine, the skin needs to detox from the use of synthetic, chemical-laden products before you’ll see visible results. We explained they may experience purging during the first 5 or 6 weeks of the challenge.
During the challenge
The majority of participants began to notice a positive change in their skin mid-way through the challenge, at the 3-week mark. At this stage, the skin cells were busy turning over, leading to an increase in collagen production. So, it makes sense that the participants felt their skin looked healthier and fresher.
Over the course of the challenge, participants said their skin’s condition improved more and more each week. At the beginning, only one woman described her skin as “good to excellent.” By the end of the challenge, over 80% of participants joined her!
The results
After 50 days, all participants reported their skin looked and felt a) hydrated, b) soft and smooth and c) nourished and healthy. Plus, 94.1% said they noticed a positive difference in their skin as a result of the 3-step skincare routine.
Overall, participants rated INIKA 4.4 out of 5 stars. Over 90% said they would purchase INIKA in the future and recommend all three INIKA products to their family and friends.
The biggest motivator was the performance of INIKA’s products. This followed by the fact our brand is Australian-owned, uses natural formulas, and is vegan and cruelty-free.
Testimonials from INIKA’s 50-Day Skincare Challenge
These are some of the testimonials we received from happy participants!
“Beautiful products. They smell amazing, and feel so soft and natural to my skin. No breakouts! No redness. Win, win for me.” – Kayla
“I’m absolutely adoring the range… I can tell the difference with my skin. I will definitely be purchasing the INIKA Organic range again.” – Clare
“One of the best!! So happy I finally found a vegan skincare product that actually works!” - Marcella
“I love the luxe feel and scent of these products. My skin is so much smoother and cleaner after using them and I’ve noticed a difference in the size of my pores and fine lines” - Sarah
“I love the INIKA Organic range. It feels amazing, leaving my skin looking and feeling soft and hydrated. The products smell amazing, making every day feel like a spa day.” – Kim
“I absolutely love it. My skin has never felt so soft and hydrated. I also have very sensitive skin and these amazing products haven’t bothered me at all. I’ve been recommending them to all my friends!” – Kira
“Omg! I’ve found my new skincare brand! My skin is so soft and hydrated. There are less fine lines around my eyes. So happy with these products.” - Participant
“I am ecstatic about the products! I haven’t had any breakouts; in fact, my skin has been better than ever! My skin feels really soft, smooth and clear. I’m really happy.” - Gigi
“Love the spa-like fragrances in this range. The cleanser was so creamy, and my favourite product is probably the face oil.” – Isabell
“Absolutely loved these products. I was worried about the product being heavy on my skin, but my skin loved it and cleared right up! Another fantastic thing was that it was vegan! I’m always trying to make a more conscious effort with the products I buy. The packaging was gorgeous, and the product itself smelt and felt great. Would 100% buy again.” – Theora
Treat your skin to beautiful, organic skincare
At INIKA, we’re committed to creating vegan skincare your skin loves. We rely on potent, plant-based ingredients, and all of our natural skincare formulas are cruelty-free. They’re just as effective as commercial counterparts, and the results speak for themselves!
Shop the basic skincare routine from the 50-Day Skincare Challenge online, and head to the blog for more natural beauty tips.