NATURAL VS ORGANIC COSMETICS: WHAT'S THE REAL DIFFERENCE AND HOW TO CHOOSE?

Doc. Oriana Chinni, Cosmetic Formulator

The terms "natural" and "organic" are often used interchangeably in the beauty world, but they carry important distinctions. If you want to care for your skin consciously, understanding what lies inside the bottles in your vanity is the first step toward authentic and safe beauty.

In this article, we will clarify the differences, the ingredients, and the fundamental value of certifications.

Natural and Organic Cosmetics: What They Have in Common

Before looking at what divides them, let’s understand what unites them. Both worlds are born from the desire to eliminate potentially harsh synthetic chemicals. In a true natural or organic cosmetic, synthetic substances are not allowed, such as:

• Silicones: Which create an illusory film on the skin without nourishing it.

• Petrolatum and Mineral Oils: Derivatives of petroleum refining (like paraffin).

• Specific Preservatives: Substances not permitted by certification standards because they are considered too impactful or aggressive.

The common goal is human safety and the use of raw materials that are compatible with the skin's structure.

The Fundamental Difference: It’s Not Just About "Origin"

While every organic cosmetic is, by definition, also natural, the reverse is not necessarily true.

1. Natural Cosmetics: These products focus on the naturalness of the ingredients used. However, there is no obligation for these raw materials to come from organic farming.

2. Organic Cosmetics: These are natural cosmetics that focus not only on human safety but also on environmental respect. The key difference is that they require ingredients of organic origin, following agronomic techniques (such as crop rotation and the use of natural fertilizers) that strictly exclude artificial substances.

The Value of Certification: Guarantee and Transparency

What often misleads consumers is the absence of objective, universal regulation in this field. This is why certification makes the difference.

It is at the manufacturer's discretion whether or not to certify a product; it is not a fixed rule, but a choice of transparency. Certification imposes strict rules and precise percentages of natural and organic substances to be used, which must be clearly stated on the label along with the logo of the certifying body.

International Standards: EcoCert and Cosmos Organic

While the concept of "organic" is well-established in the food industry, regulation in cosmetics was fragmented for a long time. Today, Cosmos Organic is the most important international reference certification.

BeC natura Laboratories adhere to strict disciplinary standards, such as those of EcoCert Green Life and Cosmos Organic, to guarantee the highest standards:

• Natural Origin: The EcoCert standard guarantees that more than 97% of the ingredients are of natural origin (this minimum value is raised to 98% by the Cosmos standard).

• Organic Agricultural Origin: At least 95% of all physically processed agricultural ingredients (PPAI) must come from organic farming.

Terra biocare Line: Where Organic Meets Performance

The Terra biocare line was born from the need to debunk a false myth: the idea that an organic product is less effective than a traditional one. Often, in the organic world, the focus is solely on saving the planet, sacrificing performance expectations.

BeC natura has reversed this trend. We have proven that with constant research and investment, organic and efficacy can go hand in hand. A product obtained with pure, natural ingredients can and must be high-performing, offering visible results while respecting the environment around us.

Choosing the Terra biocare line means embracing these values, encapsulated in formulas designed for the deep care, beauty, and well-being of the body.