What is organic skincare?
Organic skincare products are made with certified organic ingredients that are grown and processed according to strict guidelines without the use of synthetic pesticides, GMOs, or harmful chemicals.
The main governing bodies in the UK are the Soil Association and COSMOS. These organisations set the standards for organic farming and production, and they inspect and certify farms and manufacturing facilities to ensure that they meet these standards.
Benefits of using organic skincare
One of the main benefits of using organic skincare is improved health and safety. Many non-organic skincare products contain synthetic chemicals such as parabens, phthalates, and sulfates, which have been linked to various health problems. In contrast, organic skincare products are free from these chemicals, making them a safer option for the user. Particularly so if you have sensitive skin. For example, a study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health found that organic skincare products had lower levels of hazardous chemicals compared to non-organic products. [1]
Another benefit of organic skincare is its positive effect on the environment. The production of organic ingredients involves sustainable farming practices that support soil health and biodiversity. In addition, organic skincare products are often packaged in eco-friendly materials, such as glass or recycled plastic, reducing their environmental impact even further. A study published in the Journal of Cleaner Production found that organic skincare products had a lower environmental impact compared to non-organic products. [2]
In addition to these immediate benefits, using organic skincare can also have long-term benefits for the skin. The natural ingredients used in organic skincare products are often gentler and more nourishing for the skin compared to synthetic ingredients. This can help to improve the appearance and health of the skin and reduce irritation and other adverse reactions. A study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology found that organic skincare products were more effective at improving the appearance of the skin and decreasing irritation, than a non-organic alternative. [3]
Our Commitment to Using High-Quality, Certified Organic Ingredients
At Bee Cosmetics, we are committed to using high-quality, certified organic ingredients in our products. We follow the COSMOS standards, a widely recognised global standard for organic and natural cosmetics, and only use the label "organic" on products that contain 95% or more organic ingredients.
We are also transparent about the organic content of our products. For products that contain high levels of organic ingredients, but do not meet the criteria for being labelled "organic," we clearly list the percentage of organic ingredients in the ingredients list. For example, our Foot Reviving Balm is made with 82% organic ingredients.
Recently, we have been working to introduce more organic ingredients across our product range. However, despite collecting our own beeswax, honey, and propolis from our hives, it cannot be certified as organic. This is because bees can fly up to 3 miles to collect nectar, making it difficult to ensure that all the crops they visit are grown organically.
To address this challenge, we are focusing on sourcing certified organic botanical oils and butters for our products. We work closely with organic suppliers to ensure that these ingredients meet the required standards for organic certification. This allows us to offer high-quality, organic skincare products.
Why not try our Organic Facial Serum, made with 95% certified organic ingredients, or our Organic Jojoba Cleansing Oil, made with 99% organic ingredients for a truly natural and sustainable skincare routine.
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References:
[1] Schuk, K. et al. (2017). "The Chemical Composition of Organic and Conventional Skincare Products." International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 14(12), 1564.
[2] Van der Hoeven, R. et al. (2019). "Environmental Impact of Organic and Conventional Skincare Products." Journal of Cleaner Production, 238, 118083.
[3] Moyal, D. et al. (2011). "Evaluation of the Efficacy and Safety of an Organic Skincare Regimen in Comparison with a Conventional Skincare Regimen." Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 65(5), 929-935.