Buying organic, plant-based beauty products is trendy right now – for good reason. In theory, it makes sense to think that going organic is better than sticking with plain old cosmetics. After all, organic farming is better for the environment, so it should be better for our skin. But actually, it’s not that black and white.

Is Organic Effective?
The reality is, many “natural” or “organic” products contain ingredients that haven’t been tested in clinical studies, so their efficacy is hard to gauge. “It’s generally better to use something with clinically proven ingredients that are known to be safe and effective,” says St. John’s dermatologist Dr. Ian Landells. That said, some certified organic products stand up to the hype. The question is, how do you know? As with any skincare product, you simply have to try them.

It Says It’s Organic, But Is It?
Not all organic products are created equal, so don’t just look for the word on the label. First, make sure the label says it is certified organic, and then check to see what organization has provided the certification. If it’s an internationally recognized body such as Ecocert, it’s safe to say the ingredients meet an established organic standard. If no organization is named, there’s no guarantee you’re getting what you thought you paid for.

Natural vs. Organic
Traditional over-the-counter skincare products often contain ingredients that are derived from nature, such as fruits, sugars and vitamins (for instance, glycolic acid comes from sugar cane), many of which are proven to be effective. They may not be “organic,” but they are natural.

Bottom Line
No solid evidence exists to prove that organic delivers improved results, and some products may call themselves “organic” when in fact they aren’t. In the long run, it may prove to be the smartest way to go. For now, buy organics from a brand you trust – and always check the label.

First published in Wish April 2008