In a world where "clean," "natural," and "green" have become marketing buzzwords, how can you tell which products truly deliver on their promises? At Terra Quirk, we believe in radical transparency—which is why we're breaking down what those certifications on your skincare products actually mean.
Clean Beauty: Beyond the Buzzword
Let's start with the basics: what exactly is "clean beauty"?
For us at Terra Quirk, clean beauty isn't just about what's left out—it's about what goes in. Our definition centers on formulations that:
· Prioritize plant-based ingredients (99% of our ingredients are natural)
· Eliminate potentially harmful additives
· Maintain effectiveness through scientifically-backed natural alternatives
· Commit to environmental sustainability from sourcing to packaging
But here's the thing: unlike terms like "organic" in the food industry, "clean beauty" doesn't have a standardized definition regulated by government agencies. That's why certifications matter—they provide third-party verification of specific standards.
Decoding Major Certifications
ECOCERT and COSMOS Standards
Perhaps the most rigorous certification in the clean beauty space, ECOCERT (using the COSMOS standard) inspects everything from raw materials to manufacturing processes. When you see this certification, you're looking at products that:
· Contain a minimum percentage of ingredients from organic farming
· Use production methods that respect the environment and human health
· Have transparent manufacturing processes
· Use biodegradable or recyclable packaging whenever possible
What's the difference between COSMOS Natural and COSMOS Organic?
· COSMOS Natural: All the ingredients are from natural origin except a restrictive approved ingredients list (including preservatives) autorized in small quantity.
Ecocert certifies products contain 99% ingredients of natural origin.
· COSMOS Organic: At least 95% of physically processed agro-ingredients must be organic and at least 20% of the total product must be organic (10% for rinse-off products)..
Terra Quirk's formulations proudly carry both COSMOS Natural and COSMOS Organic certifications depending on the product.
CPNP (Cosmetic Products Notification Portal)
While not strictly a "clean beauty" certification, CPNP registration is required for all cosmetic products sold in the European Union. It ensures:
· Product safety has been assessed by a qualified professional
· Product information file is maintained with complete ingredients and safety data
· Compliance with EU regulations on ingredients and claims
This provides an additional layer of safety verification that goes beyond U.S. requirements.
FDA Compliance
In the United States, the FDA regulates cosmetics primarily through labeling requirements and prohibiting certain ingredients. However, unlike drugs, cosmetics don't require FDA approval before going to market.
For this reason, FDA compliance is a baseline—not a guarantee of clean or natural formulations. At Terra Quirk, we exceed FDA requirements by voluntarily adhering to the stricter EU standards.
Unregulated Terms to Be Wary Of
Without certification backing them up, these terms can be misleading:
· Natural: Without certification, brands can call products "natural" even if they contain as little as 1% natural ingredients.
· Chemical-free: Everything, including water, is a chemical. This claim is scientifically impossible.
· Non-toxic: Without specific standards defining "toxic," this term lacks meaning.
The 99% Natural Question
You may notice many certified natural products (including some of ours) labeled as "99% natural" rather than "100% natural." Why?
This typically accounts for small amounts (less than 1%) of synthetic preservatives like benzoic acid, benzyl alcohol, sodium benzoate, or potassium sorbate. These help ensure product safety and longevity without compromising the natural integrity of the formulation.
The COSMOS standard recognizes this reality and allows these preservatives while limiting synthetic ingredients to no more than 2% in certified products.
Why Terra Quirk Prioritizes Certification
Our commitment to certification stems from our core values:
1. Transparency: We want you to know exactly what you're putting on your skin.
2. Accountability: Third-party verification keeps us honest and committed to our standards.
3. Performance: We prove that certified natural products can deliver powerful results.
4. Trust: You shouldn't have to be a chemist to choose safe, effective skincare.
When you choose Terra Quirk, you're choosing products that have passed rigorous testing and verification. Our ECOCERT COSMOS certifications, CPNP registration, and FDA compliance aren't just checkboxes—they're our promise to you.
Making Informed Choices
Next time you're shopping for skincare, look beyond the marketing claims on the front of packaging. Turn the bottle around and look for:
· Certification logos (ECOCERT, COSMOS)
· Complete ingredient lists (not just highlighted "key ingredients")
· Transparent information about the percentage of natural and organic content
Ready to experience skincare that's as clean as it claims to be? Explore our certified natural collection and see the Terra Quirk difference for yourself.
Natural. Bold. Unapologetically you!