In the world of cosmetics, not everything is as it seems , and brands often use claims as part of their marketing strategy to position the brand or increase sales.
In consumers' search for more conscious , ethical and safe beauty products, several options arise that may seem similar at first glance, but may have differences.
In this article, we will clarify some concepts and nuances between the various types of cosmetics available, demystifying misconceptions and helping you to 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 and chemical fertilizers, are called Bio and in the USA organic. They do not contain OMG and are also produced in a respectful way with the environment and 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, they can mean anything (are they born from trees?) since there is no regulation.
Always check the labels to know 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.
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 such as wax (from bees), lanolin (obtained from sheep's wool), collagen, keratin and dyes obtained from animal sources (carmine cochineal). These ingredients are natural (they come from nature) but are prohibited in this type of cosmetics, in line with the way of life and morals of vegans.
May contain ingredients of synthetic origin.
- Cruelty-Free Cosmetics
These are in fact ALL cosmetics legally sold in the European Union, which includes the previous ones.
In fact, this is a “misleading” claim, since in Europe it has been prohibited to test cosmetics on animals since 2004 and since 2013 it has been prohibited to sell those that have been tested on animals inside or outside the EU (for example in China is still allowed) or that use ingredients that have been tested on animals in 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 harming animals.
Products must comply with Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009.
The Laeping Bunny seal is very cute but unnecessary , only contributing to “confuse” the consumer and lead them to choose the brands that use it.
Conclusion:
When you choose bio, organic, vegan or cruelty-free cosmetics, you are making a statement 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 geographical area. With the appropriate knowledge that we hope we have helped you obtain, you can make conscious choices , in accordance with your values and that contribute to a more sustainable and compassionate world.
Don’t let yourself be influenced by ideas such as “natural is better” (often not, as it is more difficult to guarantee that there are no contaminants and that compositions are always the same) and that “homemade cosmetics 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 wisely 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 by-products of petroleum, rather than an oil that comes from a plant grown intensively with tremendous water costs and which may have led to the deforestation of an area. for planting.
And don't forget: our body, although natural, is made up of water, chemicals and chemical reactions and the same goes for plants. All matter is made up of atoms, molecules, ions, regardless of whether it is a natural or chemical compound.
