While certification has value in setting organic standards, profit-driven agencies and misleading marketing terms can confuse consumers. By becoming informed and supporting ethical brands, we can push the skincare industry to higher standards of quality, social responsibility and environmental sustainability.
The Problem With Profit-Driven Organic Certification Agencies
As consumers looking for organic and natural skincare products, we have to do our homework. Many companies use misleading marketing to make a profit, rather than actually caring about product quality or your health. The organic certification process is expensive, so smaller businesses often can’t afford official certification, even if their ingredients and processes are purer than brands with the label. Some agencies only require a tiny percentage of organic ingredients to qualify for their seal of approval. This means most of the product can contain synthetic chemicals, fillers and other nasties.
To find truly pure, organic products, look beyond the label. Check the ingredient list for certified organic ingredients, not just the finished product certification. Call companies to ask about their sourcing and standards. Many smaller brands care deeply about purity and sustainability, they just can’t afford the official certification. At True Organic of Sweden, we use certified organic ingredients and clean processes, but official certification of our products is too costly, so we keep prices reasonable by avoiding that expense.
Rather than relying on a little sticker, become an informed detective. Research brands, learn about organic standards and call companies with your questions. Your health and the planet will benefit when you choose products from transparent businesses focused on purity over profits. Support smaller brands dedicated to organic principles, not just organic profits. By seeing through the hype of big name certifiers, you become an empowered consumer making a real difference with your dollars.
Staying informed and asking questions is the only way to know if a product is truly "organic" or just following the letter of the regulation to make money. Don't be fooled by marketing meant to take advantage of the organic trend. With some research into smaller, mission-driven companies, you can find affordable, pure and potent products for your healthiest skin and body.
How to Find Truly Organic Skincare Without the Hype
Read the ingredient lists closely
As consumers concerned about our health and the environment, we have to scrutinize the ingredients in skincare products and not just rely on certification labels. Look for ingredients you recognize as truly organic, like olive oil, shea butter, aloe vera, and essential oils. Be wary of long chemical names, as these are often synthetic preservatives, fragrances, and fillers. Even products labeled “natural” can contain these.
Buy from ethical brands
Some smaller brands use organic ingredients but can’t afford official certification. We like to support these ethical companies making high-quality, eco-friendly products. At True Organic of Sweden, for example, we source certified organic ingredients but don’t certify our final products due to the high costs. We believe in transparency and building trust with our customers through the quality and integrity of our ingredients and formulations.
Check if certifications are meaningful
Not all certifications are equal. Some only require a small percentage of organic ingredients, while others have higher standards. The certifying agencies themselves are also businesses trying to make a profit. Do some research to determine which certifications actually guarantee the product is made primarily from organic, sustainably-sourced ingredients.
While it does take some detective work, finding truly sustainable skincare is worth the effort. By being informed consumers, choosing ethical brands, and looking beyond the hype, we can feel confident that the products we’re putting on our skin are pure, natural, and environmentally-friendly. Our health and the planet will thank us.
Enjoy peace of mind knowing your skincare is made with pure, organic ingredients. Look beyond the hype of certification labels and see what's really in the products you use. Smaller skincare brands focused on quality over profits offer the most natural, organic formulas to nourish your skin