Organic vs. Natural: What’s Really in Your Beauty Products?
Why “Natural” Doesn’t Mean What You Think
Walk into any beauty store and you’ll see labels shouting “natural,” “botanical,” or “plant-powered.” It sounds healthy — but here’s the truth:
In the UK and EU, there is NO legal definition of the word “natural” in cosmetics.
That means:
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A brand can put 99% synthetic ingredients in a product, add 1 drop of lavender oil, and legally call it “natural.”
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Even products labeled “made with natural ingredients” may contain parabens, sulfates, artificial fragrances, and non-biodegradable plastics.
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There's no mandatory regulation, unless a brand voluntarily submits to independent certification.
Certified Organic: Backed by Soil Association & COSMOS Standards
By contrast, certified organic beauty is strictly regulated and audited annually.
To carry the COSMOS Organic certification, a product must:
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Contain at least 95% organic ingredients (for products like facial oils)
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Be free from GMOs, synthetic chemicals, parabens, phthalates, and microplastics.
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Use sustainable, traceable ingredients and eco-friendly packaging.
As the Soil Association explains:
“For a product to be labelled organic e.g. 'Organic facial oil': 95% of ALL ingredients must be organic.”
Our Founder: A Trusted Voice in Organic Certification
Tabitha James-Kraan is proud to be an official Beauty and Wellbeing Ambassador for Soil Association COSMOS Certification, the UK’s most rigorous organic beauty standard.
“This is a real honour because I am a true advocate for all certified brands. I really believe in certification, as it's the only way to authenticate organic.” – Tabitha James-Kraan
Her mission? To help demystify organic beauty, fight greenwashing, and empower consumers to choose authentic, planet-positive products.
The Shocking Truth About “Natural” Labeling
| Claim on Shelf | What It Could Actually Mean |
|---|---|
| “100% Natural” Shampoo | Water + synthetic preservatives + fragrance + 1 plant extract |
| “Made with Natural Oils” | 1% natural oil + 99% synthetic base and scent |
| “Botanical Ingredients” | Undefined — could be 0.1% plant extract in synthetic base |
| “Nature-Inspired Formula” | 0% natural — just marketing language, legally allowed |
Why Certification Matters
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Certified Organic means every ingredient is independently verified — no greenwashing allowed.
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Organic ingredients = high potency — because they’re grown in living, nutrient-rich soil, not saturated with chemicals, you get purer botanicals that deliver better results for your hair.
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You avoid hidden nasties like parabens, synthetic fragrances, phthalates, and microplastics.
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You’re supporting soil health, biodiversity, and ethical farming practices that protect future generations.
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Our packaging is minimal, sustainable, and fully traceable.
Shop High Performance Certified Organic Haircare – No Compromises
When you choose Tabitha JK, you support real organic beauty — verified, transparent, and truly kind to your scalp, hair and the planet.