Cosmetics are meant to make the world more colourful. But the latest trend in beauty products is clearly green. Natural cosmetics are environmentally friendly, sustainable, and stand for fair working conditions.
Organic is booming – not only in supermarkets, but also at chemists and cosmetic stores. The research institute Ipsos found that 60 percent of women prefer cosmetics that only contain natural ingredients. A clear conscience is becoming increasingly important in the beauty industry.
However, with all the environmentally friendly terms, it can be difficult to filter out the products that actually correspond to this label. Not everything that says “eco” on the outside is “eco” on the inside. Often silicones, alcohol or artificial fragrances have been added.
Made in Australia and New Zealand
Local natural cosmetics brands
Sukin: An environmentally conscious company that offers a wide range of products from hair care to skin care made from natural ingredients, without the harsh chemicals found in many conventional products.
Antipodes: An organic cosmetics brand from New Zealand that has a line of skincare and makeup with recyclable packaging, with ingredients from sustainably cultivated native plants.
Natio: Founded in Melbourne in 1992, they offer plant based beauty products including skincare, makeup, body and men’s products and do not test on animals.
ECO minerals: A 100% natural eco friendly company based in Byron Bay that offers a range of cosmetics that are all animal friendly, vegan and cruelty Free, with recycled biodegradable packaging.
How can I tell if a cosmetic is really natural?
The ingredients panel on packaging is your first point of call. The ingredient with the greatest quantity is listed first, followed by the other ingredients in descending order. If it’s all Greek to you, use the smartphone app “think dirty”. Simply scan the barcode and read the evaluation.
Do natural cosmetics mean no science?
Not at all. It requires particularly intensive research to find substitutes for chemical processes. For example, collagen is sourced from microalgae instead of from animal products.
How are natural cosmetics better?
They approach skincare holistically. By supporting the skin’s own natural functions it helps oily or dry skin to regulate itself in the long run. They also offer more nourishing care. Many of the natural oils have a structure similar to that of the skin’s own oil and are more easily absorbed than the mineral oils of conventional products.
Are there drawbacks to natural cosmetics?
It depends on where your priorities lie. For example, conventional deodorants are more effective because they block the sweat glands with aluminium-based additives. Natural deodorants often use lemon oil, which doesn’t break down the sweat, only covers it up. Lipsticks based on natural ingredients may not have the same staying power, as they don’t contain silicone oil.
Organic
What does it mean?
Whilst there are cosmetics that are from natural ingredients, some take it a step further where by the ingredients are produced using organic farming methods?
Certified Organic: A minimum of 95% of the ingredients must be organic, so if you are concerned about chemicals from the farming process making their way into your cosmetics, then this is the way to go.
Cruelty free: If you are an animal advocate then this is a must. This means that it is not tested on animals, and some products are in fact vegan so they are made with no animal products what so ever.
Recycled packaging: Look for phrases such as ‘100% recycled packaging’, or ‘carbon neutral’ for more environmentally friendly options.