Naturality
To be able to indicate that a cosmetic product is natural, there are several possibilities. The ISO 16128 norm, pertaining to the natural aspect of cosmetics, allows companies to better define the concepts of naturalness, and, although non-mandatory, seeks to harmonise internationally natural and organic criteria. It is also the norm which serves as reference for the recommendations of the French Professional Advertisement Regulation Authority (ARPP).
The norm helps calculate natural and natural origin indexes for ingredients. From there, a cosmetic product may be qualified of natural if at least 95% of its ingredients are natural. Otherwise, a certain percentage of natural ingredients or ingredients of natural origin may be stated on the product.
Even though they are not mandatory, EcoMundo advises customers to follow the ARPP recommendations if they wish to sell cosmetics in France as they may be used as a reference for enforcement authorities.
Organic and labels
The ISO 16128 norm also describes some criteria to define organic cosmetic products or of organic origin.
Regarding organic products, in France, the ARPP in its recommendations states that a cosmetic product may be considered organic if it satisfies one of the following conditions:
- 100% of the ingredients are certified from organic farming;
- It was elaborated in accordance with public specifications with a requirement level equivalent to that of certifying bodies;
- Certified “organic” by a certifying body.
For this last case, various labels can certify an organic and/or natural product. Amongst them there is for instance Cosmos, Ecocert or even Natrue. Some of these labels, aside from judging the organic or natural character of the ingredients and/or the product, go much further and take into account the entire lifecycle of the product.
EcoMundo is not a certifying body. However, our experts can provide guidance for companies so as to bring their product into compliance. They can also provide their expertise in the calculation of natural/natural origin/organic/organic origin indexes.
Wish to know more about cosmetic regulations?
For more information, do not hesitate to contact Sylvain de Backer or one of our cosmetics experts via our contact form, indicating "Cosmetics" as the purpose of your inquiry.
