When you pick skincare, you’re choosing more than texture, scent, glow or packaging. You’re choosing a system designed to protect and support your skin day after day. We’ve always believed in a gentle, effective yet thoughtful approach. Ingredients that work in harmony with your skin, alongside rituals that soothe the body and mind is what Vanessa Megan is all about. That’s why our new Foodie Skincare line is 100% natural down to the preservatives. 

Let’s take a moment to explore what a preservative actually does, why some conventional preservatives can cause problems, and how carefully selected natural preservatives keep your skincare safe, effective and sensorially delightful.

What a preservative really does

A preservative’s primary job is simple: prevent spoilage. Our skincare at home sits in warm bathrooms, has fingers dipped into it, and carries moisture and organic material that microbes love. Without preservation, formulas can grow bacteria, yeasts or moulds, which not only degrade performance but can also cause irritation and allergic reactions.

Two key ways preservatives work:

Antimicrobial protection: stops moulds, yeast and bacteria from growing in the product.

Antioxidant protection: prevents oils and other ingredients affected by oxidisation from turning rancid.

A well-preserved product provides stability and consistent results safely, meaning you get the full benefit of the ingredients every time you use the product.

Why we chose natural preservatives, especially for Foodie

Vanessa Megan celebrates nature, and the Foodie line is no different. Fruit-derived extracts, nutrient-rich oils, and nourishing butters are the hero ingredients. When formulating, our vision was clear: preserve these delightful products without resorting to harsh chemicals that can be problematic, especially for young skin. 

 

Natural preservatives we use and why they’re effective

Vitamin E (tocopherol): A potent antioxidant, vitamin E protects oils from oxidative rancidity. It is skin‑conditioning and helps stabilise formulations that contain oils like sunflower and coconut oil.

Rosemary extract: Rich in rosemary phenolics (plant compounds), it acts as an antioxidant and supports oil stability. It’s commonly used in natural formulations to protect lipids and extend shelf life.

Glyceryl caprylate: A multifunctional ingredient, it’s an emollient and has antimicrobial properties. It’s particularly valuable in natural formulations for its skin-conditioning benefits and ability to give secondary protection against bacteria and some yeasts/moulds.

Sodium benzoate: A food‑grade antimicrobial preservative widely accepted in natural and organic products when used within regulated concentrations. 

Secondary preservatives like glycerin, sunflower oil and selected fruit extracts can contribute antimicrobial or antioxidant support, while improving texture and skin feel. These are not primary preservatives but help the overall preservation strategy.

 

A multilayered approach

Good preservation is more than one ingredient - it’s a system:

• pH control: Many microbes don’t thrive at acidic pH, so where appropriate, we adjust formula pH to a safe, inhospitable range for microbes.

• Multifunctional ingredients: Combining antioxidants and mild antimicrobials creates broader protection without aggressive chemistry.

• Appropriate packaging: Pumps, small-tube sizes and secure lids reduce contamination risk and prolong stability.

The concerns around conventional preservatives

There’s a growing body of consumer concern and scientific evidence about certain conventional preservatives. Examples that have raised questions include formaldehyde-releasing agents, isothiazolinones, parabens, phenoxyethanol, alcohols, nitrates, and sulphites. These synthetic preservatives can have serious effects on the body’s processing. The issues reported with some synthetic preservatives include skin irritation, respiratory effects, and even systemic concerns caused by chronic exposure. Specific downsides to synthetic preservatives include:

• Induced breathing problems like asthma

• Hyperactive behaviour in children

• Skin reactions, like contact dermatitis

• Weakened heart tissue

• Contain cancer-causing food additives 

• Increased chances of obesity

• Loss of important nutritional value

• Headaches

• Decreased energy levels

• Alterations in mental concentration

• Cancer

• Cardiovascular disease

• Other degenerative conditions.

This long list is why many brands have moved away from these ingredients where they can. 

 

We believe in transparency: informed choices matter It’s important to be precise

Not every synthetic preservative is inherently “bad” for everyone. Regulatory bodies set safe concentration limits for many preservatives, and many products containing these ingredients are used safely by millions. But there are still known risks and trade-offs. Some preservatives are more likely to trigger sensitivities or contact allergies, especially for people with compromised skin or chemical sensitivities. 

Benefits and why you can feel confident using Foodie

Natural preservatives are more skin‑friendly, many double as skin-conditioning agents. 

They also allow for a cleaner ingredient list. A shorter, more recognisable list featuring botanical and food‑derived ingredients means you don’t have to worry about your skincare doing more harm than good. Our Foodie range is intended for all ages and skin types, to align with our brand's existing preservation model, natural preservatives were the only way to go. 

 

Safety and evidence:

For every ingredient we select, we review:

• Published safety data and regulatory status.

• Microbiological efficacy in finished product testing.

• Allergen potential and reported tolerability in the marketplace.

• Stability under realistic conditions.

This is why natural products need lab work before they reach your shelf. It’s not just about what’s on the label; it’s about how the ingredients perform together.

Foodie is designed for daily sensory pleasure, featuring whipped textures, edible scents, nourishing oils and lightweight hydrators. Food-grade ingredients really make it skincare good enough to eat!

Common Questions

Will natural preservatives make my product last as long as conventional ones?

In well-formulated products, yes. Provided you follow storage and usage guidelines. Our finished-product testing confirms the shelf life claims on the packaging.

Are natural preservatives gentler on sensitive skin?

They are often tolerated better because they’re typically less likely to trigger contact allergy. However, there is potential that botanical ingredients can cause you to react. If you have reactive/sensitive skin, a patch test is always advised.  

Do natural preservatives mean no risk of contamination? 

No preservation system removes risk entirely. This is why we combine natural ingredients with good formulation, secure packaging and testing.

 

Practical tips for caring for preserved skincare at home

Use dry, clean hands or a spatula to remove product from jars. Keep lids and pumps closed when not in use. It’s best to store products away from direct heat or sunlight. Pay attention to smell, colour or texture changes, and if anything looks off, stop using it.

The bottom line is that preservation in skincare is non-negotiable. It’s the quiet protection that ensures every application is safe and effective. For Foodie, we chose a preservation philosophy that matches our values and natural approach. Our formulas nurture the skin without relying on preservatives that can do the opposite. 

Skincare should feel nourishing, be simple yet effective. When you choose our Foodie range, you’re choosing formulas where antioxidant, antimicrobial and skin‑conditioning ingredients work together to keep your products fresh and your skin calm. That’s responsible beauty - products that do what they say, respect your skin and let you enjoy the ritual every day.