The Truth Behind Natural and Organic Skincare

What makes a skincare product “organic” or “natural”?

The definitions of "organic" and "natural" are often misunderstood. There are no federal standards about what defines an "organic" beauty product. Manufacturers themselves decide whether they want to label their product "organic". Most consumers assume that "organic" implies that a product only uses ingredients that are plant-derived and that are safe for the skin. But a product can be labeled "organic" and only have one plant-derived ingredient on a list of a hundred. "Natural" and "organic" are marketing labels without any clear and uniform definitions.

What is the most common myth when it comes to “going green” with “all natural” or “organic” skincare products?

The most popular misconception is that organic ingredients are safer than chemical ingredients. Plant-derived ingredients are not by definition safe. Poison ivy is a plant but you wouldn’t want to rub it on your skin! There is no evidence that plant-derived ingredients as a group are safer than synthetic ingredients. Just because an ingredient has a chemical name on an ingredient list does not mean the ingredient is not natural. Remember that H20 is water – that’s a chemical formula we can all appreciate. Other ingredients "sound" synthetic, even though they are not. Take bisabolol: it sounds like an ingredient created in a lab but it is really botanical extract derived from Chamomile or Yarrow that is known for its anti-inflammatory and soothing benefits.

Are synthetics superior or preferable to naturals?

It totally depends on the individual ingredient and what other ingredients may be present in the natural compound. For instance, Vitamin E is a powerful ingredient used in many skincare products. It is considered an antioxidant superstar that combats the free radical damage that can cause premature aging. It also improves the skin’s moisture content and helps minimize cell damage caused by inflammation. In its natural form (Tocopheryl), it is widely acknowledged to be irritating to the skin. Synthetic Vitamin E (Tocopheryl Acetate) is a safer, non-irritating form that has the impurities removed, but delivers all the same benefits. Skincare manufacturers should choose each ingredient based on its individual safety record.

When it comes to skincare, is "natural" or "organic" the best way to go?

As we all know, "going green" is a growing and important trend. Consumers care about the impact that their purchases have on the environment and themselves, which is a great thing. But they should be aware that “natural” and “organic” are marketing terms that do not guarantee certain ingredients or a particular product formulation. Even products that are truly “organic” have only proven that their ingredients are sourced a particular way or that a certain percentage of such ingredients have been used. An "organic" seal is not a guarantee of safety or of efficacy. Since you can’t rely on marketing terms, consumers have to do their own research. The truth is you need a product that is safe, stable, and that works. That is the real question when choosing a skincare product.

What is the average shelf-life of natural/organic products?

In most cases, if a product is truly all natural or organic, it will have to be refrigerated and the shelf life is limited, as with fresh food. A major concern about natural or organic products is their preservation. All skincare products must be formulated to preserve against microbial contamination and growth to ensure their shelf life. Natural ingredients can sometimes be harder than raw synthetic materials to preserve against these contaminations. Shelf life may only be a few weeks, especially once the container is opened. If the product has preservatives, the shelf life will depend on the level and type of preservatives. Each product should have an expiration date stamped on the label so that consumers clearly understand the "use by" date.

Are there concerns that consumers should have about natural/organic products?

Consumers should be aware that some natural ingredients can irritate or burn the skin or cause dermatitis. In addition, if a product is predominantly natural and/or organic, the quality and consistency can vary dramatically depending on the source(s) of supply, the quality of the crops and even climate and political conditions in the harvest region. Quality control and consistency become a real concern. People with very sensitive skin may actually be more prone to irritation with natural/organic products. Furthermore, if the raw materials have varied, individual irritation levels may change by product batch. Also, some "natural" ingredients contain pesticides. In most cases, if a natural ingredient is found beneficial, it will need to purified and stabilized.

Bottom line?

More than anything, consumers should be concerned with the safety of the products they use and the ingredients in them. They should select products from companies that rigorously test their products, have the results to support their claims and are able to demonstrate safety.