In the world of cosmetics not everything is what it seems and brands often use claims as part of their marketing strategy to position the brand or increase sales.
In search of more beauty products conscious, ethical and insurance on the part of consumers, several options arise that may seem similar at first glance, but may present differences.
In this article, we will clarify some concepts and nuances between the various types of cosmetics available, demystifying misconceptions and helping you make a conscious and informed choice.
- Bio or Organic Cosmetics
In Europe, cosmetics produced with natural ingredients, grown according to organic farming standards, without synthetic pesticides or chemical fertilizers, are called Bio and in the USA, organic. They do not contain GMOs and are usually produced in an environmentally friendly way, prioritizing the use of recyclable packaging.
- Natural or “clean” cosmetics
There is no legal meaning for natural or “clean” cosmetics because there is no definition or regulation for the terms, that is, it could mean anything (do they come from trees?) since there is no regulation.
Always check the labels to find out what type of product it is.
The “clean beauty” movement is yet another claim by brands to sell their products (which they say are safer and less toxic), using consumers’ fears regarding their health and safety.
Please note that all ingredients considered harmful or toxic are prohibited in any type of cosmetics, and there is an official list of those that can be used (and their respective concentrations).
- Vegan Cosmetics
These are those that do not contain ingredients of animal origin in their composition, such as wax (from bees), lanolin (obtained from sheep's wool), collagen, keratin and dyes obtained from animal sources (cochineal carmine). These ingredients are natural (they come from nature) but are prohibited in this type of cosmetic, in line with the lifestyle and morals of vegans.
May contain ingredients of synthetic origin.
- Cruelty-Free Cosmetics
These are in fact ALL cosmetics legally marketed in the European Union, which includes the above.
In fact, this is a “misleading” claim, since in Europe it has been forbidden to test cosmetics on animals since 2004 and since 2013 it has been forbidden to market those that have been tested on animals inside or outside the EU (for example, in China it is still allowed) or that use ingredients that have been tested on animals inside or outside the EU.
The ban aims to encourage more ethical practices in the cosmetics industry and ensure that products available on the European market meet safety standards without harming or hurting animals.
Products must comply with Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009.
The Laeping Bunny stamp is so cute but unnecessary, only contributing to “confuse” the consumer and leading him to choose brands that use it.
Conclusion:
When you choose bio, organic, vegan or cruelty-free cosmetics, you are to make a affirmation in favor of your health, the environment or animal rights.However, don't forget to read the labels, check if they have recognized certifications and understand the regulations in force in your country or geographic area. With the appropriate knowledge that we hope we have helped you obtain, you can do conscious choices, in accordance with their values and that contribute to a more sustainable and compassionate world.
Don't be influenced by ideas like “natural is better” (often not, since it is more difficult to guarantee the absence of contaminants and that the compositions are always the same) and that “homemade cosmetic recipes are better” (they can be useless and even potentially dangerous).
The cosmetics industry is highly regulated and the products are safe: use without fear, choose consciously and use what is best for you.
The issue of sustainability may also be debatable because it may be better for the planet to use petroleum jelly, one of the byproducts of petroleum, rather than an oil that comes from a plant that is intensively cultivated with tremendous water expenditure and that may have led to the deforestation of an area for planting.
And don't forget: Our body, although natural, is composed of water, chemicals and chemical reactions and the same goes for plants. All matter is composed of atoms, molecules, ions, regardless of whether it is a natural or chemical compound.
