In recent years, the negative effects of products containing chemical substances on human health and the environment have led consumers to turn towards “organic and natural” personal care products. It can be said that the “organic and natural personal care products” market has become a more significant sector compared to the cosmetic and healthy living products market.
Distinction Between “Organic” and “Natural” Products
The distinction between “organic” and “natural” products in personal care products signifies an important difference. Natural products may contain ingredients from nature but might not be subject to strict standards; organic products, on the other hand, undergo stricter control and certification processes and are produced with environmentally friendly, health-safe ingredients.
Natural Products
The term “natural” means that a product contains components derived from nature; however, there are no specific rules regarding the processes these components undergo or the standards they meet. Products labeled as natural may contain plant-based or mineral ingredients without being required to be organic. Therefore, the term “natural” encompasses a broad range and regulations are often limited. Even if a product is labeled as natural, it may contain some synthetic additives.
Organic Products
The term “organic” is subject to stricter standards. For a product to be classified as organic, it must be certified by an independent certification body. The raw materials used in organic products must be grown using environmentally friendly agricultural methods, meaning no synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are used. Additionally, organic products do not contain chemicals such as parabens, phthalates, or synthetic fragrances. Animal testing and non-recyclable packaging are also generally avoided within 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 become more aware of the negative effects of synthetic chemicals on skin and overall health, they are shifting towards natural and organic products. Consumers with skin sensitivities and allergies prefer products with safer, natural ingredients. There is a growing demand for products that use plant-based and pure ingredients instead of chemical additives.
With the rise of eco-friendly lifestyles, consumers are opting for personal care products that do not harm the environment as well as themselves. The use of sustainable agricultural practices in the production of organic products, minimizing harm to ecosystems, and recyclable packaging have become important factors in consumer choices.
Many countries are tightening regulations on the ingredients used in personal care products to promote organic content. Especially in the European Union and the United States, legal regulations for organic-certified products help these products gain more market presence, thus increasing consumer trust.
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
Organic product contents are regulated and certified by numerous independent organizations worldwide (Ecocert, Soil Association, Cosmebio, ICEA, BDIH, OASIS, NPA, Cosmos, NaTrue, and NSF). These organizations ensure that organic personal care products meet specific standards and guarantee that the products are truly “organic.” There is no global standard for personal care products yet. However, different countries and regions have developed various standards and certifications for their organic and natural personal care products. Therefore, the definition and content of organic and natural products may vary from country to 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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