Hello beauties, let’s talk about this for a second because it can be hugely confusing with the amount of greenwashing that goes on out there (which means labelling something ‘green’ when it may only contain a small amount of anything natural).
If you’re a conscious consumer, chances are you buy natural skincare. I’m totally right beside you on that one. It’s boo-de-ful. It’s effective. And it’s beautiful to use. And if you care about that sort of stuff, it’s cool! Take a look at Stella Mc(Cartney) who was named the first Green Designer of the year in 2008, and beautiful eco Cameron (Diaz), who was one of the first celebs to rock a Prius.
It’s not about jumping on a soapbox, it’s about making informed choices.
In our eco-conscious society (hallelujah!) natural skincare is the choice of more and more of us. And, bless them; the beauty companies are making it easier by giving us lots of naturally beautifying choices ranging from plant-based and organic ingredients to biodegradable packing.
Some words of advice on this one though.
KNOW YOUR LABELS
While there are many ethical companies out there, some aren’t being entirely honest. You see, a label might proclaim it contains organic olive oil, and it does. But, and here’s the catch, only a minuscule 1 per cent. There aren’t any regulations so they’re not breaking any laws (other than integral). This is a classic example of ‘greenwashing’.
HOW DO I KNOW IT’S REALLY NATURAL?
One way is to look at a company’s philosophy; it’s a good indicator of how they operate. A few years ago, Comvita hosted a global expert in the science of naturals, Judi Berrling of Organic Monitor. She told us that she felt the only way to be sure you are getting an authentic product is to look for certification. “It gives you some degree of certainty,” she says. Otherwise, we’re just guessing.
WHAT IS…
…Natural?
- Made from plant extracts and natural ingredients
- Contains low/minimal amounts of synthetic chemicals
…Organic?
- Must contain a significant level of certified ingredients
- And/or meet private standards
…Certified Organic?
- Stringent assessments and audits ensure products contain natural ingredients, 75 to 95 per cent of which must be certified organic.
Look for:
- Ecocert: the largest organic certifier. It has, arguably, the strictest criteria.
- NPA: US-based Natural Products Association assesses ingredients are natural, safe to use and environmentally responsible and sustainable.
- Assure Quality: owned by the New Zealand government this body provides safety and biosecurity services to the food and primary production sectors.
- Biogro: developed for the New Zealand market, Biogro is accredited by the International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements (IFOAM).
- The Soil Association: certifies around 1,500 products, which must contain 70 to 100 percent organic ingredients.
- Cosmos: An umbrella body for Bioforum, Ecocert, Cosmebio, BDIH, ICEA and Soil Association. They’re attempting to harmonize global standards.
- NaTrue: True Friends of Natural and Organic Cosmetics. It’s aim? To set high standards of quality, integrity and transparency worldwide.
Two Natural Beauties We Rate:
ANTIPODES
Hosanna H2O Intensive Skin-Plumping Serum, $49.50
I’ve long been a fan of Antipodes as I know its founder Elizabeth Barbarlich takes her natural beauty seriously. In fact, she prides itself on weighing in heavily on science and producing high-performance skincare. This particular serum is a ‘water-charged and oil-free bioactive serum’ that delivers pure hydration to the skin cells by way of mineral-rich, 15,000-year-old Waiwera artesian water. Independent scientific testing showed it significantly stimulates synthesis of Type 1 collagen by up to 72% and hey presto! Plumper looking skin. Vinanza Grape helps protect against environmental damage and extract of mamaku black fern promotes cell renewal. I think you’ll agree, this is a must try.
You can buy it here.
GROWN ALCHEMIST
Grown Gentle Gel Facial Cleanser: Geranium, Bergamot & Rose-Bud Body, $53
Another fave around here is Grown. Doesn’t the name just want you to reach out and sniff? The good-looking bottle looks pretty great in the bathroom too. So two ticks before we’ve even started! Grown is a gorgeous brand (and, trust us, we’re picky). This skin cherishing cleanser works to shrink pores and diminish age spots. Nice.
You can buy it here.
Hope that helps beauty. 😀
