Organics is the new buzzword in everything from homewares to food. The difference between natural and organic in relation to cosmetics, however, has caused a lot of confusion in the marketplace. This confusion is made worse by the fact that many companies are now calling their cosmetic products organic when they are simply natural. So what’s the difference?

According to Origins, a producer of personal care products, organic products are grown according to the laws of nature. This means that any sprays, fertilizers or soil supplements used must be totally natural. The most comprehensive list of appropriate additives comes from the Natural Organic Program in the United States. In most countries the government regulates the production of organic crops and foodstuffs – in Australia the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry sets standards for organic food production – while certifiers are usually private organisations such as Ecocert in Europe and Latin America and Australian Certified Organic at home. This is also the case for food in Australia but, as yet, no one certifies cosmetics.

So here in Australia, you see products that either claim to be organic or are certified organic. If labels claim certification, they were more than likely certified overseas. For instance, all of the Origins Organics products are certified in the US, which means that their products are at least 98 percent organic. Products certified to be made from organic ingredients, on the other hand, are no more than 70 percent organic.

Here are some things to look for when you’re trying to decide if a product is organic:

  1. Organic products have a use-by date.
  2. Organic products should carry an indication that they must be used within 12 months opening.
  3. Certified organic products display the marque of the certifier on the label.
  4. They must not contain animal products.
  5. They must not contain any parabens, phthalates, petroleum, mineral oils, para-aminobenzoic acids (PABAs), propylene glycol or paraffin.
  6. If they state they are organic, but are not certified, you should be able to get documented evidence of the organic properties from the producer.
  7. Some organic products should only be available seasonally. For example Ilcsi only sells its organic lavender products at certain times because lavendar is cut and used straight away.

Not helping to clarify things organic but providing greater choice are companies, such as Crabtree and Evelyn and the Purist Company, that have both organic and natural ranges. Yes to Carrots is a new brand whose products are made from organic products, meaning they’re up to 70 percent organic.

Perhaps you can now appreciate why it took Origins years to produce their certified organic range. Starting production of their natural products in 1990, the company achieved its long-term goal with the launch of its organic range around the world in 2007 and in Australia this year. As people become more aware of the advantages of organic ingredients and products, the trend towards organic cosmetics will continue. In the meantime, here’s a round up of product ranges available right now.

Certified Organic

Origins Organics

Organic

Ilcsi
Jurlique
A’kin the Purist Company

Containing organic ingredients

Crabtree and Evelyn Naturals
Yes to Carrots
Bush Essentials
Stem Organics

Origins Organics Body Pampering Massage Oil
Ilcsi Mineral Cleansing Concentrate
A’kin White Tea & Aloe Vital Hydration Gel Creme
Crabtree and Evelyn Naturals Botanical Body Scrub
Yes To Carrots Can You C Me Eye and Face Makeup Remover
Bush Essentials Moisturizer
Stem Organics Gentle Cleansing Milk

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