The cream should be free of parabens, silicones and microplastics, contain only high-quality organic ingredients and, ideally, be sustainably packaged. These are the requirements that many people now have when buying beauty products – and the list goes on! Forget about “eco” and “bourgeois”. The motto is the greener, the better. Natural cosmetics are enjoying great popularity because we no longer care what we put on our skin and what consequences it has for the environment. But even with natural cosmetics, there are a few things to consider: how to recognise certified natural cosmetics and which exotic new ingredients are currently conquering the green beauty industry.

Natural cosmetics are booming.

It’s no secret: natural cosmetics are more popular than ever. More and more people are turning to deodorants, shampoos, creams and lip balms with natural ingredients. One billion euros are sold in Germany annually with natural cosmetics, and growth rates are at 20 per cent.

What are real natural cosmetics?

The term “natural cosmetics” is not legally protected in Germany. In order to distinguish certified natural cosmetics from conventional beauty products, it is advisable to pay attention to the seals. Reliable natural cosmetics seals in Germany are the BDIH seal and NATRUE seal.

Natural cosmetics seals require more ingredients from cosmetics companies than the statutory EU cosmetics regulations. The consumer advice centre offers a good overview of all seals for natural, vegan, and cruelty-free cosmetics, as well as allergy products. You can also use the CodeCheck app to check every product for its ingredients.

Benefits of natural cosmetics

But why are more and more people switching to natural cosmetics? There are many reasons for this. Natural cosmetics offer numerous advantages for people, animals and the environment :

In natural cosmetic products, ingredients based on petroleum (e.g. paraffin), which are suspected of being carcinogenic, are prohibited. Instead, vegetable oils (e.g. almond oil, jojoba oil) are used.
Only what is good is used: chemical substances, artificial colors and fragrances as well as preservatives (e.g. parabens) are not used in natural cosmetics.
Environmentally harmful substances such as microplastics or chemical UV protection filters are also not contained in natural cosmetic products.
In general, natural cosmetics manufacturers pay more attention to sustainable packaging, short supply chains, and climate-neutral production. Recycled materials are often used to produce less waste.