Skincare Guide - Natural Cosmetics
Natural cosmetics – genuine effectiveness between naturalness and science
Natural cosmetics stand for care products based on natural raw materials and largely free of synthetic additives. They combine sustainability, transparency, and skin compatibility – values that are crucial for many consumers today. However, not all natural cosmetics are created equal: terms like "natural," "clean," or "vegan" are often used differently.
What does natural cosmetics really mean?
The term is not legally protected in Germany. Guidelines can be found in recognized seals such as NATRUE , BDIH , ECOCERT , or COSMOS , which set precise requirements for ingredients and manufacturing processes. According to ÖKO-TEST (2024), certified products must contain at least 95% natural raw materials; silicones, mineral oils, and synthetic fragrances are prohibited.
Difference between natural and conventional cosmetics
While conventional cosmetics often rely on laboratory-derived active ingredients and silicone oils, natural cosmetics utilize plant oils, waxes, and extracts. Their effectiveness is based on the synergy of biologically active plant substances. As Utopia.de (2024) explains, thanks to nature-identical lipids, the skin can regulate its own balance in the long term. Modern natural cosmetics increasingly work with biotechnologically derived active ingredients – entirely without synthetic fragrances or preservatives.
Active ingredients and skin compatibility
Natural oils such as jojoba, almond, or grapeseed oil have a skin-like effect and support the lipid barrier. Plant-based active ingredients—e.g., aloe vera, green tea, or chamomile—possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, or regenerative properties. According to the German consumer advice center (2023) , the skin compatibility of certified natural cosmetics is usually very high; however, essential oils can cause irritation in sensitive skin.
Trends: Clean Beauty and Green Science
The market is evolving: New brands are combining natural raw materials with scientifically tested active ingredients – an approach known as Green Science . This fusion of nature and research blurs the lines between conventional and nature-based cosmetics. Brands like NATURFACTOR® share this same commitment: nature-identical formulations with clinically proven efficacy, without synthetic additives.
Sustainability and transparency
Sustainable packaging, short supply chains, and CO₂-reduced production are now just as important as the ingredients themselves. According to BUND (2024), natural cosmetics are considered environmentally friendly if they are biodegradable and do not contain problematic surfactants or microplastics. Many manufacturers use glass packaging, refill systems, or FSC-certified paper.
Who is natural cosmetics suitable for?
It is particularly suitable for sensitive, dry, or irritation-prone skin. Thanks to mild surfactants and natural humectants, it can also provide support for skin conditions. However, those seeking targeted anti-aging or barrier protection effects often benefit from hybrid formulas – that is, skincare products that combine natural ingredients with scientifically developed active ingredients.
NATURFACTOR® as a modern approach
NATURFACTOR® follows a so-called Bioactive Infusion Approach : Natural ingredients such as plant extracts, hyaluronic acid, and bioactive peptides are used in their purest form and combined with clinically proven technology. This creates a new generation of skincare – luxurious, potent, and nature-based all at once.
Conclusion
Modern natural cosmetics represent more than just the absence of chemicals. They are an expression of a conscious lifestyle and demonstrate that naturalness and effectiveness are not mutually exclusive. Whether minimalist skincare or a scientifically based natural line like NATURFACTOR® – transparency, quality, and a love for the skin are crucial.
Sources
- ÖKO-TEST (2024): Natural cosmetics – What distinguishes them and how to recognize them
- Utopia (2024): Recognizing and Understanding Natural Cosmetics – Shopping Tips
- Consumer Advice Centre (2023): Natural cosmetics – words that can be confusing
- BUND (2024): Environmentally friendly cosmetics – What natural cosmetics can do
- Brigitte (2024): Natural cosmetics – The best tips and brands
Tags: natural cosmetics, sustainable care, green science, skin compatibility, Ökotest, Natrue