It may surprise you to learn that, as of late 2008, there are still no FDA-approved standards that must be met before labeling cosmetic products as organic. The same is true in Canada, except in the province of Quebec. Another element that’s complicating this issue is the fact that even though lots of cosmetics actually do contain organic ingredients, it’s rarely the case that the entire formula is organic. Why? There are various reasons, but mostly it’s because a number of synthetic ingredients, such as preservatives, are essential components of many cosmetic formulas (there are no natural preservatives that can keep all microbes such as fungus, mold, and bacterium at bay). They’re there for a reason: The organic ingredients are not stable and will deteriorate without them. Plus, in contrast to organic food, a certain amount of synthetic ingredients are required in cosmetics to help keep the ingredients mixed together and stable, and to apply smoothly on the skin and look appealing. What good is an organic or all-natural skin-care product if it’s unappealing to use on a daily basis?
It also helps to remember that you can’t put avocados (or any other food item) on your face to “feed” your skin. Natural or organic does not mean better skin care. Blueberry or grape juice doesn’t make for great skin care, won’t fight acne, won’t deal with skin discolorations, and won’t protect from the sun. Plus what it takes to get a plant out of the ground and processed to remove the insects and dirt, and then get it into your product, stabilized and ready for packaging, and eventually ready for you to use, isn’t the most natural process in the world.
To make a long story short, these factors help explain why, until acceptable standards are in place, any cosmetic can sport an organic label without having to prove the claim— and many cosmetics companies are doing just that. Remember, most creams, lotions, gels, serums, toners, shampoos, conditioners, and cleansers are about 60% to 90% water, and by the current lax regulations that makes almost any product organic.
Ultimately what’s more important than getting labeling standards in place is the fact that lots of plant extracts and essential oils have irritating properties that won’t help skin in the least (think lemon, lavender, peppermint, menthol, lime, camphor, cinnamon and more). So what difference does it make if they’re organically grown or not? Environmental impact and sustainable farming notwithstanding, peppermint is a problem for skin, whether it’s grown with or without pesticides. It may resonate with you emotionally and morally that your skin-care product purchase helps organic farmers during challenging times (it does for me), but if what’s inside the finished product isn’t going to help your skin, then it’s important to know that there are other ways for you to help the environment without lowering your skin-care standards. In summation, there are other ways to support the “Green” movement that don’t involve buying poorly formulated or irritating cosmetic products.