With the rise of natural cosmetics, it can sometimes be difficult to know which products are truly beneficial for our skin and hair. Brands are increasingly using terms like “natural”, “organic” or “clean beauty”, but what do they really mean, and how can we be sure that the product is really good for us? Here are some tips to help you identify a quality natural product.
1. Check the list of ingredients (INCI)
The first step to knowing if a product is natural is to look at its list of ingredients, called INCI (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients) . Ingredients are listed in descending order of quantity, so the first few items make up the majority of the product. Here's what you should look for:
- Botanical names : Ingredients of plant origin are often listed under their Latin name. For example, shea butter is called Butyrospermum Parkii in the INCI.
- Natural ingredients : Vegetable oils (argan oil, jojoba oil), butters (shea butter, cocoa), and plant extracts (aloe vera, chamomile) are positive indicators of a natural product.
- Free of Harsh Chemicals : Avoid products containing parabens, sulfates (like Sodium Laureth Sulfate ), silicones ( Dimethicone ), or phthalates, which can be irritating or harmful to skin and hair.
2. Favor labels and certifications
Labels and certifications are reliable indicators to recognize a natural and ethical product. Here are some labels you can look for:
- Ecocert : Guarantees that the ingredients are of natural origin and that the manufacturing process is environmentally friendly.
- Cosmos Organic : Certifies that the product contains at least 95% natural ingredients and that at least 20% of the ingredients are from organic farming.
- Leaping Bunny : Ensures that the product has not been tested on animals.
These labels allow you to trust the composition and manufacturing of the product.
3. Avoid products with a long list of ingredients
A genuine natural product often has a short and simple ingredient list. If the ingredient list is too long or contains many confusing items, it is likely that it contains unnatural additives or preservatives. A minimalist product, with recognized and familiar ingredients, is often a better choice.
4. Beware of greenwashing
Many brands use marketing to give themselves a “green” image, even if their products are not actually natural. This phenomenon, called greenwashing , can be misleading. Be wary of terms like “made with natural ingredients” or “with natural extracts” if they are not accompanied by transparency on the exact proportion of these ingredients.
Tips for spotting greenwashing:
- Check that natural ingredients appear at the top of the list.
- Pay attention to certifications.
- Be careful of packaging that claims to be “eco-friendly” without proof of sustainable practices.
5. Look for ingredients that are beneficial for your skin and hair
Quality natural products contain ingredients that are known for their specific benefits. Here are some of the best ingredients to look for for each type of need:
- To moisturize skin and hair : Shea butter, coconut oil, avocado oil, vegetable glycerin, aloe vera.
- To soothe sensitive skin : Chamomile, calendula, jojoba oil.
- To nourish and repair dry hair : Argan oil, castor oil, cocoa butter.
- To revitalize mature skin : Rosehip oil, natural hyaluronic acid, vitamin E.
6. Prioritize eco-responsible packaging
A natural product is also part of an environmentally friendly approach. Look for brands that use recyclable, reusable or biodegradable packaging. This shows an overall commitment to sustainability.
Conclusion
Recognizing a natural product that is good for your skin and hair requires paying attention to ingredients, labels, and brand transparency. By following these tips, you will be better equipped to make informed choices that respect both your body and the environment. At Maishea Natural , we make it a point of honor to offer you natural products, made with care, to meet the needs of dry, frizzy, and sensitive skin and hair. 🌿
