Decoding Skincare Labels: What Do 'Organic' and 'Natural' Really Mean?
Today’s world comprises skincare aisles filled with products labeled "organic" and "natural" but have you ever wondered what exactly they are and what’s the difference?
What do these terms depict?
Backed by global standards and sustainable practices, let us decode these to discover their true meaning in the era where you might feel overwhelmed with so much information and confused about which one to trust, transparency is the key to helping you make informed decisions regarding skincare choices.
What does Organic indicate in skincare?
"Organic" refers to products crafted from ingredients that are grown without using synthetic chemicals, pesticides, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Several certifications such as USDA Organic or ECOCERT ensure adherence to stringent environmental and safety standards. For instance, ECOCERT mandates that certified products contain at least 95% plant-based ingredients, with a specific percentage being organic.
Premier natural skincare brand, Refresh Botanicals is known for following the stringent standards of ECOCERT’s COSMOS standards with the utmost commitment to crafting high-quality skincare solutions for its customers.
Products such as Hydrating Facial Cleanser and Hydrating Facial Moisturizer are formulated with organic Cucumber extract and Cornflower water ensuring no traces of synthetic chemicals, GMOs or pesticides on your skin thus promoting sustainability.
How does Natural differ from Organic?
The term "natural" is considered to be less regulated. However, it’s vital to keep in mind that "natural" doesn’t guarantee any sort of purity or safety, as some products labeled natural may still contain synthetic additives or any other synthetic components.
A recent report shared by the Environmental Working Group (EWG), highlights how the term "natural" can be misleading without certifications or clear ingredient lists. In the article, "Greenwashing: Truth versus hype about consumer products," EWG notes that labels claiming “all-natural” ingredients can be quite deceptive, as such claims may apply to only a small percentage of the ingredients.
The importance of scrutinizing product labels has been emphasized seeking reliable certifications to ensure the authenticity of such claims made.
At Refresh Botanicals, all our products are ECOCERT certified wherein we ensure our natural ingredients are carefully sourced and free from harmful chemicals, providing transparency and effectiveness in every product.
Why do Certifications Matter?
Certifications help establish trust by adhering to recognized standards and validate the claims. Research from the Soil Association indicates that choosing certified organic products reduces your exposure to synthetic chemicals while supporting ethical production.
Their research proves that organic foods have fewer pesticides, as organic farming strictly prohibits the use of synthetic pesticides and herbicides.
Refresh Botanicals is committed to these ethical standards. Our products are ECOCERT-compliant, ensuring the highest standards in organic skincare, while our processes minimize environmental impact, aligning with consumer demands for sustainability.
Tips for Decoding Labels
Deciphering skincare labels, specifically for those who are not from a science or technical background, can be daunting. Here are some practical tips to understand any skincare product label:
1. Scan for Red Flags: Avoid ingredients like parabens, sulfates, and artificial fragrances. The Environmental Working Group’s (EWG) Skin Deep® database offers a comprehensive guide to identifying potentially harmful chemicals in personal care products. Additionally, apps like YUKA allow you to scan product barcodes to instantly assess their safety, offering a convenient way to identify potentially harmful ingredients.
2. Look for Certifications: Symbols like ECOCERT or USDA Organic ensure authenticity. These certifications guarantee that the product meets strict standards for organic and sustainable practices.
3. Understand Ingredient Order: Ingredients are listed by concentration, so key actives should appear near the top of the list.
Refresh Botanicals offering Uncompromising Transparency
Refresh Botanical's motto revolves around clean, effective, and sustainable skincare. Our products such as Intensive Hydrating Serum not only harness the power of organic plant extracts, but also make sure they deliver visible results in terms of hydrating and nourishing your skin.
Our products reflect our commitment to certified organic and natural ingredients, ensuring a blend of science and nature you can trust.
In conclusion, having a clear understanding of skincare labels is essential for making informed decisions. Certifications like ECOCERT and USDA Organic provide assurance and confidence in the quality and safety of the products you are looking for.
Refresh Botanicals, a Canadian skincare brand feels extremely proud to offer transparent, certified organic, and natural skincare solutions that prioritize your skin’s health and the betterment of the environment.
Make sure to head to our website to explore more about how we promote sustainability and craft a wide range of high-quality products for every skin type, helping you improve your skin’s health and maintain its glow.
