Natural or conventional cosmetics: what are the differences for your skin?
The main difference between natural cosmetics and conventional cosmetics lies in the origin of the ingredients: primarily plant-based or mineral for the former, and more often synthetic or derived from the petrochemical industry for the latter. In Switzerland, as in the European Union, all cosmetics sold must comply with the same safety regulations. Choosing natural is therefore a matter of values, environmental impact, and sensory experience, rather than a matter of safety.
"Natural," "clean," "organic"... These words are proliferating on labels, and it is easy to get lost. Here are the facts to help you make an informed choice.
What is a natural cosmetic?
A natural cosmetic is formulated primarily with ingredients of natural origin: plant extracts, vegetable oils and butters, floral waters, and minerals. The percentage of ingredients of natural origin is calculated according to an international method, the ISO 16128 standard.
Since the word "natural" is not defined by law, labels are the most reliable guide: COSMOS (Ecocert), NATRUE, or BDIH set precise specifications regarding authorized ingredients and manufacturing processes.
What is a petrochemical ingredient?
It is an ingredient manufactured from petroleum or its derivatives. Some common examples, which can be recognized in the INCI list, are:
| Family | INCI Examples | Role in the formula |
|---|---|---|
| Mineral oils | Paraffinum Liquidum, Petrolatum | Texture, protective film |
| PEGs and derivatives | PEG-40, Ceteareth-20 | Emulsifiers |
| Certain silicones | Dimethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane | Silky feel, glide |
| Certain polymers | Carbomer, Acrylates Copolymer | Gel texture |
These ingredients are authorized and governed by regulations. They are chosen for their stability, texture, or cost. Natural brands prefer plant-based alternatives to them, notably for their environmental impact and biodegradability.
To learn more: mineral oil or vegetable oil, what is the difference?
And parabens?
Parabens are preservatives. They have been widely studied, particularly for their possible activity on the hormonal system. Based on the opinions of the European Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS), the European Union banned five of them in 2014 and limited the concentration of others, which are considered safe at authorized doses. Switzerland applies the same rules.
Natural cosmetics use other preservatives admitted by organic labels: potassium sorbate, sodium benzoate, dehydroacetic acid, or sodium levulinate, for example.
To learn more: endocrine disruptors and cosmetics, what you need to know.
Natural or conventional: what are the concrete differences?
| Natural cosmetic | Conventional cosmetic | |
|---|---|---|
| Origin of ingredients | Mostly plant and mineral | More often synthetic or petrochemical |
| Safety | Same rules and same mandatory safety assessment | Same rules and same mandatory safety assessment |
| Environment | Ingredients generally more biodegradable, often organic | Varies depending on ingredients |
| Sensory experience | Plant-based textures and scents, which may vary from batch to batch | Very consistent textures |
| Tolerance | Not automatically better: plants and essential oils contain allergens | Varies depending on formulas |
Are natural cosmetics better suited for sensitive skin?
Not necessarily, and it is important to state this. Some plants and essential oils contain natural allergens. For sensitive skin, the best guides are a short formula, a product tested on sensitive skin, and a small patch test on the wrist before first use.
To learn more: reactive skin, how to choose your cosmetics?
The Belle Luce choice
- formulas with up to 99.7% ingredients of natural origin, such as the Edelweiss Day Cream and the Eye Contour Elixir;
- plants grown using organic farming methods in the Val de Bagnes;
- preservatives accepted by organic standards;
- face care products dermatologically tested on sensitive skin;
- scores of 85 to 100/100 on Yuka.
Frequently asked questions
Are conventional cosmetics dangerous?
No. In Switzerland and the European Union, every cosmetic product must undergo a safety assessment before it is marketed, whether it is natural or not. The difference lies in the origin of the ingredients, not in the required level of safety.
How can I tell if a cosmetic is truly natural?
Look at the INCI list, the percentage of ingredients of natural origin, and the presence of a recognized label, such as COSMOS or NATRUE.
Does natural mean organic?
No. A natural ingredient comes from nature; an organic ingredient is also sourced from organic farming. Labels specify the percentage of organic ingredients.
Why does a natural cosmetic need a preservative?
Because a product containing water can develop bacteria or mold. The preservative ensures it remains safe until the final use. Natural cosmetics use preservatives accepted by organic labels.
Skincare with Valais plants, up to 99.7% of natural origin
Sources: Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 on cosmetic products; Regulation (EU) No 358/2014; ISO 16128 standard; opinions of the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) on parabens.