Why Choosing Certified Beauty Products Makes a Difference

There's a collective awareness that the very makeup we adorn ourselves with and the skincare we use to remove it might counteract the strides we've made in skincare. The recognition of harmful ingredients and their health and environmental implications in mainstream beauty products has prompted a widespread awakening.

Now when a new clean beauty brand or product comes out, we want all the details. We want to know how good it is for our health, for the environment, and for animals. In other words, prioritizing cruelty-free, ethical, sustainable, and health-conscious beauty choices is our top priority.

To differentiate between the good, bad, and ugly, we often turn to certifications to know what’s right for us. Labels are huge in the clean beauty industry: they come in the form of claims, badges, and seals.

Deciphering the many certified beauty certifications can feel like wading through a vast ocean. That’s why we’ve compiled the most important ones for you and why certified beauty products are becoming a top choice for conscious consumers.

In the pursuit of healthy and gorgeous skin, the choices we make matter. With an increasing upswing in natural products with sustainable practices, more consumers are turning to certified beauty products. Before we delve into the certifications and what they signify, let’s touch on what clean beauty means.

Clean beauty refers to products that prioritize using safe, non-toxic, and environmentally friendly ingredients. It encompasses skincare, haircare, and makeup products that avoid harmful chemicals, synthetic fragrances, and other potentially hazardous substances.

Consumers increasingly seek transparency in product formulations, pushing for labels that are easy to understand and free from harmful components. Here is the list of labels and certifications that make it easy to spot authentic and certified beauty products:

Organic Certification: Products bearing an organic certification ensure that ingredients were grown without synthetic pesticides or genetically modified organisms.

Cruelty-Free Certification: Indicates that the product and its ingredients were not tested on animals.

Vegan Certification: Confirms that the product does not contain any animal-derived ingredients.

Non-GMO Certification: Ensures that the product is free from genetically modified organisms.

EWG Verified: The Environmental Working Group's verification ensures that products meet specific safety and transparency criteria.

Leaping Bunny
Leaping Bunny is perhaps the best-recognized label for cruelty-free beauty. They conduct independent reviews of makeup, skincare, personal care, and household product brands globally.

This standard requires that absolutely NO animal testing be done at any stage of development. That means that neither the individual ingredients, the formula, nor the finished product cannot be tested on animals. Furthermore, if a brand allows third-party companies to use animal testing, said brand can’t receive the Leaping Bunny certification.

PRO TIP: Remember to cross-check any cruelty-free labels you find through the Leaping Bunny database! Not all brands pay to use the Leaping Bunny logo on their products, so this database can help you locate each brand by name.

Beauty Without Bunnies
Beauty Without Bunnies is PETA’s cruelty-free certification. Like Leaping Bunny, the BWB database includes global cosmetics, personal care, and household product companies.

Their process asks for companies to sign a statement verifying that they don’t use animal testing on the raw ingredients, formula, or final product (and that they won’t in the future). That means their suppliers cannot use animal testing on the ingredients they provide. Getting the BWB label is less rigorous because companies aren’t subject to any sort of review, but it’s still a label worth looking out for.

(Psst… 100% PURE is certified by both Leaping Bunny and Beauty Without Bunnies!)

Choose Cruelty-Free
Choose Cruelty-Free is the Australian counterpart to Beauty Without Bunnies. The difference is that they investigate every aspect of the supply chain to ensure that every company involved in the process – from the suppliers to the parent company – doesn’t engage in animal testing.

This certification focuses on cosmetics, toiletries, and household cleaning products that are sold in Australia. Since selling these products in China often requires animal testing, CCF chooses not to certify any brands that retail in China.

Note: 100% PURE™ can sell cruelty-free products in China by selling strictly online and using third-party warehouses in the U.S. for shipping. Read how we bypass this rule to provide cruelty-free products to consumers in China.

USDA Certified Organic
Any personal care product that includes agricultural ingredients can potentially use this certification. That means that even products with essential oils can also be Certified Organic if they meet requirements.

A clean beauty product that is labeled Organic by the USDA must be at least 95% organic. Ingredients are organic when they are grown and made without synthetic pesticides or preservatives, GMOs, ionizing radiation, or other forbidden methods.

NSF Certified Organic
The NSF standard applies to personal care products, like soaps, that use non-agricultural ingredients and different manufacturing processes often. To get this certification, at least 70% of the product must be organic. You’ll usually see this in the form of labels such as “Contains Organic Ingredients” with specific percentages of 70% and above.

Biodynamic® / Demeter®
Demeter is the certifier for Biodynamic® products. This certification is used to identify eco-friendly farms and ranches and is stricter than USDA Organic.

While this certification also meets the requirements for USDA Organic, it also focuses on other aspects of sustainability. A farm or ranch must also promote soil fertility, biological diversity, crop protection, and humane animal welfare. That means no artificial chemical fertilizers or pesticides! However, products coming out of these farms or ranches must first meet Demeter’s Processing Standards to be considered Biodynamic.

Rainforest Alliance
The Rainforest Alliance calls attention to delicate ecosystems facing threats like deforestation, while also protecting the rights of farmers and suppliers within these ecosystems.

Products bearing this seal are sourced and manufactured using sustainable practices that support a healthy symbiosis between human life and wildlife. Ingredients and products that meet this standard must undergo a rigorous auditing process. They must prove that they can protect the landscapes where farmers live and work, while also protecting local ecosystems and wildlife.

COSMOS / Ecocert
COSMOS refers to the COSMetic Organic and Natural Standard, set by the sustainable certification group Ecocert. As you can tell by the name, COSMOS certifies natural and organic cosmetics worldwide.

There are two different labels: COSMOS APPROVED and COSMOS CERTIFIED. Organic ingredients are COSMOS CERTIFIED and raw materials are COSMOS APPROVED. To meet these standards, a product must use eco-conscious production, health-conscious production, no petroleum-derived chemicals, no GMOs, and recyclable packaging.

Fair for Life
Fair for Life is another Ecocert certification, but it pertains to the treatment and payment of human workers. This label can apply to raw agricultural products, cosmetics, and handicrafts (among other categories).

Unfortunately, it is common for many beauty brands to use ingredients or products that unfairly exploit the labor of workers; particularly in poor or developing countries. This certification requires that workers receive a fair price for their goods, work in decent and safe conditions, and use environmentally friendly farming practices.

In the pursuit of radiant and healthy skin, the choices we make matter. With an increasing emphasis on natural and sustainable products, more individuals are turning to certified beauty products as their preferred choice. From its positive impact on your skin to its environmental benefits, certified beauty products prioritize individual well-being, healthier skin outcomes, and environmental consciousness.

Here are key areas and benefits of choosing certified beauty products:

Health and Safety

It's crucial to be mindful of harmful ingredients commonly found in beauty products. Certified beauty products contain fewer harmful chemicals, and, instead, rely on the power of nature, harnessing the benefits of botanical extracts, essential oils, and natural emollients to nourish and protect the skin. This benefits the consumer's health and skin – and the environment.

Certified beauty products undergo thorough testing to ensure that they deliver on their promises. They avoid potentially toxic ingredients, such as parabens, phthalates, sulfates, and synthetic fragrances. Checking product labels for these ingredients ensures a safer choice for personal health and the environment.

Additionally, assessing the performance and quality of certified beauty products is essential. Look for product certifications and possibly reviews to ensure you’re getting the real deal.

Environmental Impact

There are environmental advantages to choosing products that prioritize sustainable practices and ingredients. Organic farming practices promote soil health, biodiversity, and water conservation.

By avoiding synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, organic farming decreases the risk of soil erosion and contamination of water sources. It also supports the preservation of ecosystems, wildlife habitats, and aquatic life.

Certified beauty brands often prioritize sustainable packaging choices. They opt for recyclable materials and reduce the use of single-use plastics, contributing to a greener and cleaner planet. At 100% PURE, we utilize pre-cycling, which eliminates the need to recycle or dispose of waste by not creating waste. By pre-cycling, you’re reducing your impact on what goes into the waste ‘system’ by buying and using items that are unpackaged, reusable, or recycled. This step should be taken before you should recycle.

Ethical Considerations

Clean beauty brands with certifications essentially act as signifiers against conventional beauty companies. They actively fight to inform consumers about inhumane or unsafe beauty practices that were previously shrouded in mystery.

Their standards address issues with the way we’re currently handling sustainability and ethics in the beauty space. They inform consumers about the ways clean beauty does things differently in that department and why, therefore, clean beauty is the superior choice.

The certification logos prominently displayed on their products serve as a symbol of authenticity, transparency, and trust. Whether it’s cruelty-free or fair trade- or any of the certifications described above - these clean beauty brands ensure individuals that the beauty product has undergone rigorous inspections and met strict organic standards.

With the rising demand for transparency and ethical practices, clean beauty brands often embrace sustainable business models and ethical sourcing. They actively support fair trade practices, organic farming communities fairness to labor workers, environmental initiatives, and a positive impact on animal welfare and global communities.

Reading about every beauty certification under the sun can be dizzying. There are so many certifications for just about every facet of clean beauty. Environmental sustainability, organic certifications, fair treatment of workers, and humane animal treatment each have their labels.

Just like reading a foreign language, accurately reading labels requires understanding certain critical elements to decode the message accurately. Here are some of the key things to look for when you're scrutinizing a skin care product label and recognizing authentic certification logos on beauty product packaging.

The Order of Ingredients
In skincare products, the order of ingredients listed on the label matters a lot. The list starts with the ingredient that has the highest concentration, going down to the least. So, if you're eyeing a moisturizer that touts hyaluronic acid as a key component but finds it languishing at the end of the list, it means that the product contains a lesser amount of it than the other ingredients. By understanding this, you can ensure you're truly getting what you're paying for.

Expiry Dates and Batch Numbers
Understanding expiry dates and batch numbers is crucial for ensuring the product's efficacy and safety. The expiry date indicates how long the product will remain effective after opening. Using a product beyond its expiration can lead to skin irritations or infections due to the growth of bacteria.

Batch numbers, though less understood, are equally essential. They are codes that identify when and where a product was manufactured. If there's a recall or an issue with a specific lot, the batch number will help identify the products involved. So, keeping a note of this number, especially for your staple skincare items, is a wise practice.

Understanding Specific Labels
Certain labels on skincare products can be confusing and misleading. For instance, terms like "organic", "natural", and "dermatologist-tested" are often thrown around, but what do they mean?

An "organic" label implies that the ingredients are organically farmed, meaning they're free from synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs). However, not all "organic" claims are created equal. Look for certification symbols such as USDA Organic to ensure the credibility of these claims.

"Natural" is a tricky term because it's not strictly regulated. It generally suggests that the product is free of synthetic substances, but it might still contain ingredients you want to avoid. Always double-check the ingredients list even if a product is labeled as "natural".

Finally, "dermatologist-tested" indicates that the product has been reviewed by a dermatologist for its safety and efficacy. While this might seem reassuring, it doesn't necessarily mean that the product is suitable for all skin types, as individual skin reactions can vary. Therefore, it's essential to patch-test any new product before full application.

In addition to the key things to look for when you're scrutinizing a skincare product, there are plenty of generic logos made to look like official certifications. Keeping track of how official logos look can be confusing and difficult. Some brands may exclude the logo altogether or they simply can’t afford certifications or to pay to use a logo.

In these cases, it’s best to research and verify the credibility of brands and/or their certifications by utilizing online resources and databases. With the vast amount of information on the web, you’re sure to find some good, useful nuggets to help you out. You can also just start small. You don’t need to go out and replace all your current beauty products right away. When one of your products runs out, take the time to research and decide on a more ethical, sustainable option.

And while we’re on a more sustainable option, we do need to toot our horn at 100% PURE as an ideal choice for natural skincare and cosmetics. We take pride in our testing practices to ensure that we are producing the healthiest and most toxic-free formulas for our customers. Our commitment to animal welfare means that we will never, EVER test on animals – and that our products will always be certified cruelty-free. When it comes to our ingredients we go through a painstaking process to avoid animal-sourced ingredients and opt for vegan, cruelty-free alternatives.

By learning to understand these important elements on a skincare product label, you can make informed decisions about what you're putting on your skin. After all, knowledge is power, especially when it comes to decoding beauty.

Incorporating certified beauty products into your daily beauty regimen involves a mindful transition to healthier alternatives for your skin and the environment. Here is how you can do it:

#1. Smart Swaps for a Seamless Transition

Rather than overwhelming yourself by discarding all your conventional products at once, opt for strategic swaps. Begin by replacing crucial items like cleansers, moisturizers, and foundations with clean alternatives. This gradual approach allows your skin to adapt, preventing potential irritations or breakouts.

#2. Discover Trustworthy Clean Beauty Brands

Simplify your clean beauty journey by choosing brands committed to natural alternatives. Look for companies with values aligned with yours, ensuring a commitment to safe, quality ingredients. Our Bakuchiol Oil Serum, a chemical-free alternative to retinol, exemplifies the potency of plant-based solutions. It stands as a testament that clean beauty can rival conventional counterparts in effectiveness.

#3. Embrace DIY Clean Beauty

Dive into your kitchen for a creative approach to clean beauty. Experiment with DIY alternatives, from green tea masks to homemade lip tints. These enjoyable and quick tutorials not only offer a personal touch to your beauty routine but also jumpstart your clean beauty transition. Take charge of your skincare with simple, at-home solutions.

#4. Set a Personal Standard for Clean Beauty

Elevate your expectations for certified beauty products, mirroring the standards set by 100% PURE. With a decades-long commitment to high-quality ingredients, we advocate for educating consumers on the significance of natural elements. Uphold the highest standards for your beauty regimen, prioritizing products that contribute to skin, body, and environmental health.

#5. Build a Certified Beauty Regimen

Create a clean beauty routine that aligns with your specific certification preferences and skincare goals. If a cruelty-free and natural brand with sustainable business practices is your goal, we have the ultimate beauty regimen for you – plus it has anti-aging perks! And, our pure ingredients are made with rigorous testing to ensure that we are producing the healthiest and most toxic-free formulas for our customers.

Cleanser swap: Start by using a gentle cleanser like the 100% PURE Bakuchiol Cleanser to remove dirt, oil, and impurities from your skin as well as stimulate cellular turnover for a smoother complexion. Gently massage it onto damp skin, then rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry.

Add on a serum: Apply a few drops of our Bakuchiol Oil Serum onto your fingertips and gently massage it into your face and neck. Made with the clinically recommended maximum bakuchiol concentration, this serum is a must-have for those who are looking for long-lasting hydrating. It penetrates deep into the skin for a soft and supple feel.

Swap out your moisturizer: Follow up with the 100% PURE Bakuchiol Moisturizer to provide additional hydration and seal in the benefits of the serum. This antioxidant-rich moisturizer provides intense hydration to boost collagen production and lessen the appearance of lines and wrinkles. Apply a small amount to your face and neck, gently massaging it using upward motions.

Don’t forget eye cream: Our fan-favorite Coffee Bean Caffeine Eye Cream features anti-inflammatory, caffeine-rich green tea and coffee to de-puff while increasing circulation to brighten dark circles. Concentrated with potent anti-aging vitamins and antioxidants to awaken the eye area, and nourishing rosehip oil for softer, more youthful skin around the eyes.

Don’t forget sunscreen: Sunscreen is crucial to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Finish your routine by applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Our Yerba Mate Mist SPF 30 is made with antioxidants that help protect against free radicals and environmental pollutants, and it helps prevent sun damage and maintains the benefits of bakuchiol.

While we’ve compiled all the most important certifications in one place, we know that getting through all those labels takes a while (and a half)! But taking that extra step to check if your product is eco-friendly, people-conscious, and certified beauty products is important. It’s a pivotal role of certified beauty products in promoting healthier skincare practices, ethical consumerism, and environmental sustainability.

The choice to embrace certified beauty products goes beyond a desire for healthier skin. It reflects a conscious decision to prioritize both personal well-being and the well-being of the planet. From the safety and effectiveness of clean ingredients to the environmental sustainability promoted by organic farming practices, the beauty of ‘certified products’ shines through.

By supporting it, you’re not only nurturing your skin but also contributing to a more sustainable and compassionate future. We should put our money, choices, and voices toward brands making changes for the better – maybe the rest of the world will follow the trend! Let your beauty regimen reflect your values and choose it for a naturally harmonious, healthier, and happier you.

Are certified beauty products always more expensive than non-certified alternatives?

No, not necessarily – but you may need to shop around to find the price that is right for you. While it's tempting to equate price with quality, this isn't always the case in skincare. A high price tag often reflects factors like brand prestige, packaging, marketing, and yes, sometimes superior ingredients or formulation technology.

Certified beauty products assure you that these clean brands prioritize using safe, non-toxic, and environmentally friendly ingredients. From its positive impact on your skin to its environmental benefits, certified beauty products prioritize individual well-being, healthier skin outcomes, and environmental consciousness. It’s more of a guarantee than non-certified alternatives – plus you don’t have to dig through online resources or databases to find credible information.

Can a product be certified in more than one category (e.g., organic and cruelty-free)?

Yes! A beauty product can have multiple certifications. If brands have paid for the certification or logo – and it’s authentic - they can indicate the beauty product certifications; how many there may be!

How can I verify the authenticity of a product's certification?

Labels play a vital role in confirming the authenticity of a product. Pay close attention to the quality of the tag, its design, and the ingredients provided. Genuine products often have transparent labels with accurate branding and relevant information.

You can also check the brand's website and official documentation: One of the easiest ways to verify the authenticity of a brand is to check their website and official documentation. Use online resources and databases to confirm any certifications in question.

Do certified products offer the same effectiveness as conventional beauty products?

Yes, and more – without the potential adverse skin and health effects. Certified beauty products avoid harmful chemicals, synthetic fragrances, and other potentially hazardous substances. These brands prioritize using safe, non-toxic, and environmentally friendly ingredients in their products. They are just as effective, without the potential to cause harm to you, your skin, and the environment.

What should I do if my favorite product isn't certified?

If it’s a reputable clean beauty brand, you may feel confident knowing that the ingredients are probably safe and vetted for your skin. Sometimes there are small clean brands that can’t quite afford the certifications but still make a safe, natural, effective product. However, it’s recommended that if you want the absolute best and guarantee, then you should probably find a certified beauty product.