Organic cosmetics – definition, standards & benefits

What is organic cosmetics?

Organic cosmetics refers to skincare products manufactured according to strictly controlled standards and based on natural, predominantly organically grown ingredients. The goal is to protect both the skin and the environment. Organic cosmetics clearly distinguish themselves from conventional cosmetics by avoiding synthetic ingredients, petroleum-based raw materials, and certain preservatives. Instead, they rely on plant extracts, vegetable oils, waxes, and natural fragrances.

What standards apply to organic cosmetics?

Various organizations establish criteria for organic cosmetics. The most well-known seals are:

• NaTrue: internationally recognized label for natural and organic cosmetics.
• BDIH / COSMOS: German standard, strictly regulated and internationally used.
• Ecocert: French certificate with clear organic requirements.
• USDA Organic: important organic seal in the USA.

A product may only be called “organic cosmetics” if a certain proportion of the ingredients come from controlled organic farming – usually between 20 and 95%, depending on the certificate.

Benefits of organic cosmetics

• Naturalness: free from synthetic colors and fragrances.
• Compatibility: often better suited for sensitive skin.
• Sustainability: resource-efficient production and environmentally friendly packaging.
• Transparency: standards that can be verified through certificates.

Difference between organic cosmetics and natural cosmetics

While natural cosmetics use natural ingredients, organic cosmetics go one step further: They guarantee that a large proportion of these raw materials come from controlled organic farming . This makes organic cosmetics the most consistent form of nature-based skin care.

Who is organic cosmetics suitable for?

Organic cosmetics are ideal for people who value naturalness, sustainability, and skin-friendly care. They can be a particularly good alternative for those with sensitive skin or a tendency to allergies. At the same time, many consumers appreciate the environmentally friendly philosophy and ethical production.

Challenges of organic cosmetics

Organic cosmetics also have limitations: Shelf life is often shorter, textures can vary, and not every formulation is automatically skin-friendly. Furthermore, active ingredients like retinol or synthetic peptides are not permitted in purely organic cosmetics. Nevertheless, modern brands are developing innovative concepts that combine effectiveness with naturalness.

Luxury aspect of organic cosmetics

Organic cosmetics are increasingly perceived as a new luxury segment . Elegant packaging, high-end textures, and scientifically tested formulations demonstrate that naturalness and luxury are not mutually exclusive. NATURFACTOR® represents this symbiosis of craftsmanship, science, and nature.

Conclusion

Organic cosmetics are more than a trend—they are an expression of responsibility, health, and lifestyle. Those who choose organic cosmetics are not only choosing skin-friendly care, but also choosing a sustainable approach. In the premium segment, organic cosmetics are becoming a symbol of modern luxury care that elegantly combines effectiveness and ethics—as embodied by NATURFACTOR® .

Sources

1. NaTrue – International label for natural and organic cosmetics https://www.natrue.org
2. COSMOS Standard – Requirements for organic cosmetics https://www.cosmos-standard.org
3. Ecocert – Organic and natural certification https://www.ecocert.com/en/certification-detail/natural-and-organic-cosmetics
4. USDA Organic – Organic certification for cosmetics https://www.ams.usda.gov/rules-regulations/organic