The cosmetics industry is evolving towards more conscious and eco-responsible beauty. More and more consumers want to adopt a healthier beauty routine and are concerned about the quality of the ingredients and the manufacturing processes of their beauty and hygiene products.
Natural, organic, clean… these terms are now multiplying on beauty shelves, but it can sometimes be difficult to make sense of them. These terms are often used as synonyms, yet their composition, labels, origin of ingredients, or formulation philosophy are very different!
Meanwhile Boutique is committed to supporting you in making more ethical and sustainable consumption choices. The aim of this article is to help you better understand the differences between natural, organic, and clean cosmetics so you can choose products that truly meet your needs.
What are natural cosmetics?
Definition of natural cosmetics
A natural cosmetic is a product made predominantly from ingredients of natural origin. It can only be described as “natural” when its composition contains at least 95% natural ingredients. If this percentage is lower, brands can specify the nature and exact percentage of natural components present in the formula.Why turn to natural cosmetics?
Natural ingredients can be of plant, mineral, or animal origin. They are minimally processed and obtained using simple methods, such as traditional mechanical extraction methods, to preserve their properties as much as possible.
Turning to natural cosmetics means, above all, choosing formulas made from ingredients of plant, mineral, or animal origin, which are often better tolerated by the skin. Essential oils, plant extracts, or botanical actives are valued for their beneficial properties, such as hydration, nourishment, and protection against external aggressors.
Natural cosmetics are also appealing for their more responsible approach: the absence of potentially irritating or allergenic chemicals (parabens, silicones, and other controversial ingredients), a reduced environmental impact (no pesticides or GMOs), and packaging designed to be recyclable or biodegradable. Many brands also prioritize local partnerships and short supply chains.
Finally, choosing natural skincare also means choosing effectiveness. Plant-based actives can offer results similar to, or even better than, those used in conventional beauty products containing chemicals.
Top 2 natural cosmetic brands at Meanwhile Boutique
The French brand uses waterless formulas, highly concentrated with cold-pressed precious oils and active plant cells from green biotechnology to preserve the full richness of natural actives. Made in France, JOD skincare products are 100% natural, vegan, cruelty-free, and offered in 100% recyclable packaging.
With their pleasant textures, 100% natural fragrances, and colorful universe, JOD skincare products embody a modern and positive approach to natural cosmetics, where sensoriality and eco-responsibility go hand in hand.
Looking for effective, safe, and sustainable skincare? Feï Paris offers an innovative range of natural dermo-cosmetic skincare products in powder form.
The eco-responsible French brand stands out for its exceptional products that combine scientific expertise with a commitment to skin and planetary health. Its multi-purpose cleansing powder, made from 11 carefully selected natural ingredients, gently removes makeup and cleanses the body, face, hands, and hair, offering remarkable versatility.With its natural, high-quality, practical, and versatile formulas, Feï Paris embodies more sustainable beauty that is gentler on your skin!
What are organic cosmetics?
Definition of organic cosmetics
An organic cosmetic is formulated from ingredients or raw materials from organic farming, grown in a way that respects the environment and biodiversity. To guarantee their origin and quality, they must be certified by a control body approved by the National Institute of Origin and Quality (INAO) or recognized in the European Union.
Organic cosmetics also meet specific requirements that govern both the composition of the formulas and the creation processes, as well as the environmental impact of the products.
Why turn to organic cosmetics?
Choosing organic cosmetics means choosing skincare made from natural ingredients that are either unprocessed or minimally processed (free from synthetic and polluting components), respecting human health, biodiversity, and natural balances.
Organic cosmetics also stand out for their high level of control and traceability. Even though the products are of natural origin, they are subject to rigorous testing and controls throughout production, particularly regarding the absence of pesticides or chemical fertilizers. This provides greater transparency and confidence when choosing beauty products.
Organic labels or certifications also strictly limit the use of chemicals and controversial substances found in conventional cosmetics, such as parabens, irritants, numerous endocrine disruptors, mineral oils, silicones, and especially numerous petroleum derivatives!
Choosing organic cosmetics thus means adopting a more conscious beauty routine that takes care of the skin while paying special attention to the environment and more sustainable production methods.
Top 5 organic beauty products right now at Meanwhile Boutique
Natural Twisted Carrot Lip Balm
Cleansing and makeup remover balm
Organic Moisturizing Face Cream - The Cream of the Crop
Raspberry-colored tinted lip balm
The Purifying Organic Green Banana Superfat Soap
What are clean cosmetics?
Clean cosmetics: a simple marketing claim or a genuine eco-responsible solution?
Clean cosmetics, also known as “clean beauty”, refers to a beauty approach that prioritizes more ethical skincare and limits the use of certain chemicals. The goal? To offer effective, natural cosmetics that are gentler on human health and the planet.
Unlike organic or natural cosmetics, the term “clean” is based on no official regulations or certifications. Each brand can therefore define its own charter and criteria. For some, this means excluding chemicals and polluting substances such as silicone, mineral oils, or certain synthetic preservatives. For others, clean cosmetics also involves commitments related to production or eco-designed packaging.
In short, clean beauty therefore meets a desire to consume more sustainably and ethically. However, this term remains very loosely defined, so it is essential to look beyond marketing promises and consider the composition, the brand's eco-responsible commitments, and any labels in order to make informed choices.
“Clean beauty” at Meanwhile Boutique
At Meanwhile Boutique, the selected cosmetic brands reflect a more conscious vision of clean beauty, where transparency, ingredients of natural origin, organic formulations, and eco-responsible commitments come together.
A philosophy perfectly embodied by JOD, who believes that “it is shaking up the rules of clean beauty.”
Between natural, organic, and clean cosmetics, the most important thing is to choose skincare that aligns with your values and needs.
Meanwhile Boutique showcases brands committed to more conscious, natural, and sustainable beauty.
Sources:
