In recent years, chemical products have harmed human health and the environment. As a result, consumers have shifted toward organic and natural personal care products. Consequently, this market has grown and become more important than the cosmetic and healthy living products sector.
Distinction between “organic” and “natural” products
The distinction between "organic" and "natural" personal care products is important. Natural products may include ingredients from nature but often lack strict standards. In contrast, organic products undergo stricter controls and certification processes. They are made with environmentally friendly and health-safe ingredients.
Natural products
The term "natural" means a product includes components from nature. However, there are no specific rules about how these components are processed or the standards they must meet. Products labeled natural may contain plant-based or mineral ingredients without needing to be organic. Therefore, "natural" covers a wide range, and regulations are often limited. Even natural-labeled products may contain some synthetic additives.
Organic products
The term "organic" follows stricter standards. To be classified as organic, a product must be certified by an independent body. Its raw materials must be grown using eco-friendly methods, without synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, or GMOs. Additionally, organic products exclude chemicals like parabens, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances. Animal testing and non-recyclable packaging are generally avoided under these standards.
Global trends
The global trend toward natural and organic personal care products has seen significant growth. In North America, for instance, the market is projected to reach a value of $2.2 billion by 2024, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.9%. Consumers are increasingly opting for organic products due to concerns over the negative health impacts of synthetic chemicals, including hormonal imbalances and skin irritation.
In Europe, the natural and organic personal care market is also expanding, particularly in Germany, which is expected to account for 20.2% of the regional market by 2024. Growing awareness about the benefits of organic ingredients is driving demand, with new product launches and sustainability packaging attracting eco-conscious consumers.
Globally, the face care segment dominates, driven by concerns such as aging and dry skin, while oral care products are gaining attention due to heightened dental health awareness(Grand View Research)(Fact.MR)
As consumers grow more aware of the harmful effects of synthetic chemicals on skin and health, they shift toward natural and organic products. Those with skin sensitivities and allergies prefer safer, natural ingredients. Consequently, demand increases for products made with plant-based and pure ingredients instead of chemical additives.
Rise of eco-friendly lifestyles shapes personal care choices
With the rise of eco-friendly lifestyles, consumers choose personal care products that protect both the environment and themselves. Sustainable agricultural practices in organic product production, minimizing ecosystem harm, and recyclable packaging have become key factors in their decisions.
Many countries are tightening regulations on personal care product ingredients to promote organic content. Especially in the European Union and the United States, these legal regulations boost the market presence of organic-certified products and increase consumer trust.
Consumers pay premium for organic personal care products
Despite the fact that the prices of organic personal care products are generally 40-50% higher than traditional cosmetic products, consumers are willing to pay this difference for products that are health- and environment-conscious. This trend is expected to continue in the long term.
Consumers are looking for independent certification from certification bodies to verify that organic and natural products are genuinely organic. Having a reliable organic certification for products enhances brand loyalty and leaves a positive impact on consumers.
Standards and certifications
Numerous independent organizations worldwide regulate and certify organic product contents, including Ecocert, Soil Association, Cosmebio, ICEA, BDIH, OASIS, NPA, Cosmos, NaTrue, and NSF. These bodies ensure that organic personal care products meet specific standards and truly qualify as "organic." Although no global standard for personal care products exists yet, various countries and regions have developed their own standards and certifications. Therefore, the definitions and contents of organic and natural products may vary by country.
Some major certification organizations and bodies have established globally accepted standards. For example:
Cosmos (Europe): One of the most widely accepted standards in Europe, determining the production and content standards for organic cosmetic products. Cosmos is formed by several European certification organizations, including Ecocert, Soil Association, and BDIH.
NaTrue (Brussels): Another globally recognized standard for natural cosmetics. NaTrue-certified products are widely accepted in various regions around the world.
NSF/ANSI (USA): This standard, used in the United States, plays a significant role in the certification of organic personal care products and is occasionally referenced in other countries.
Country-specific standards
France: Standards set by Ecocert offer quality and environmental sensitivity beyond legal regulations in France and Europe. Products containing at least 95% organic raw materials are considered "organic."
Germany: Standards set by BDIH allow the use of natural raw materials and the acceptance of certain nature-identical preservatives.
UK: The Soil Association establishes standards for products with organic ingredients, ensuring the exclusion of harmful substances for both the environment and human health.
USA: According to NSF/ANSI standards, products containing 95% organic raw materials are considered "organic."
Canada and Australia: IOS and Australian Certified Organic Standard require organic products to contain 95% natural raw materials.
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