Organic Vs Chemical Beauty: What do Skin Care Product Labels Really Mean?

Organic: the buzzword on every beauty blogger's lips. No longer exclusively purchased by hippy chicks and hip celebs, organic beauty products have become mainstream and hugely popular with those seeking a natural skin care alternative

But with complicated certification standards and baffling ingredient names adorning beauty product labels, does anyone really know what they are putting on their skin? What is the difference between organic, natural, and chemical-free beauty products, and why are they preferable to synthetic products?

Help! Organic Beauty is So Confusing!

Current regulations allow some natural skincare products to be labeled as "organic" even if their composition includes a percentage of chemical ingredients. These synthetic additives - such as parabens, sulfates, phthalates, and artificial colors and fragrances - can cause allergic reactions and adversely affect health with prolonged use. Chemical-free alternatives are defined as such:

  • Organic skin care products must contain at least 70% organic ingredients to display the USDA Organic Seal. The ingredients must be non-GMO and have been grown without the use of pesticides or fertilizers
  • Natural skin care products, while not legally regulated, should contain only ingredients "from the Earth" with no lab-grown synthetic additives  
  • Chemical-Free skin care products exclude ingredients such as petroleum, formaldehyde, and phthalates - known irritants that are also linked to cancer and hormone disruption

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    How Can I Ensure I'm Using Only Non-Toxic Beauty Products?

    To ensure you are protecting your skin and health from toxic ingredients, it is important to carefully read the label of any beauty product you purchase. Become familiar with the ingredients to avoid and their potential dangers. Trust in Earth Girl to bring you only pure beauty and spa products, for simple, natural goodness that cares for your skin!