Concern about the use of synthetic ingredients and their affect on consumer’s health and the environment have spurred a move toward natural and organic ingredients in makeup and cosmetics. But not all natural and supposedly organic ingredients are equal. In other words, just because a product claims to be organic it may not be. To be sure you are buying makeup and cosmetics that have the highest possible quality, look for products that have the ECOCERT organic certification. ECOCERT-certified products have passed strict guidelines for the organic production of their ingredients. These ingredients have been produced on certified organic and sustainable sites.

There are many organic ingredients that manufacturers can use in makeup and cosmetics. The main benefit of these ingredients is the reduced risk of allergic reaction or skin irritation. Another major benefit is that certified organic ingredients have a low impact on the environment. The following list is not comprehensive, but these are some of the ingredients you may find in leading organic makeup and cosmetics lines.

AHA fruit acids, also known as alpha hydroxy acids, are derived from natural fruit acids and are known for their anti-aging and cell renewal properties. AHAs help to stimulate cell renewal, dissolve surface skin cells to remove dead skin, and diminish age spots and wrinkles, and are used to help reduce the appearance of acne scarring.

Aloe vera has been used for centuries for its healing properties. It contains vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, B12, C, and E as well as eight essential amino acids. Aloe vera aids in cell regeneration and calms irritated and inflamed skin. It is also a skin protector and a natural humectant, which means it draws moisture from the air and keeps it in the skin.

Alpha lipoic acid helps to prevent aging by fighting free radicals. It has 400 times more antioxidant power than vitamins C and E. It also gives you a glowing youthful appearance by energizing the cells in your skin.

Argan oil had been used in the Middle East for many years to give the women of the area glowing skin and shiny hair. It has high amounts of the essential fatty acids omega 6 and omega 9. Argan oil also has high amounts of vitamin A, which hydrates the skin, reduces the appearance of stretch marks and scars, and helps to sooth inflamed skin. It is also added to cosmetics to prevent age spots and stimulate skin cell production.

Bergamot essential oil is used for the treatment of eczema, acne, and psoriasis because of its cell generation and anti-bacterial properties.

Black Willow Bark Extract is known for its antibacterial properties and is shown to be effective in cell regeneration, exfoliation, and the treatment of acne. It contains compounds similar to salicylic acid and is rich in tannins.

Coenzyme Q10 helps to maintain skin elasticity and reduces the signs of aging. It is a powerful antioxidant and helps to increase your skin’s natural defenses from environmental stress. Coenzyme Q10 helps in the skin’s production of collagen for younger looking skin.

Grape seed oil is rich in antioxidants and helps treat acne and provide support for aging skin. It is a by-product of wine production and can be found in lotions and moisturizers.

Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is found in plants, dairy products, vegetables, and fruits. It is one of the components that the body uses to make collagen and elastin, two important substances for youthful looking skin. It is known to help reduce the appearance of spider veins, brown spots, and wrinkles.

Olive squalane is very close in chemical composition to your body’s own natural oils that keep your skin soft and supple. It is absorbed quickly and goes deep into your skin’s cells to help renew and repair them. Olive squalane helps to prevent age spots and wrinkles.

Polysorbate 20 is derived from coconut oil and is a natural emulsifier. An emulsifier helps water and oil to mix and stay stabilized.

Rose hip seed oil is derived from the fruit of the rose after it has bloomed. It is very high in antioxidants such as vitamins A, C, D, and E. It is also high in essential fatty acids and flavonoids. This oil helps to reduce wrinkles and improve the appearance of stretch marks and scars. It is an excellent tissue regenerator.

Shea butter comes from the shea nut tree found in Africa. It is used in cosmetics as a moisturizer and has healing properties. It is high in vitamins A and E and leaves your skin very soft and supple.

This list contains just a few of the natural and organic ingredients available to makeup and cosmetic manufacturers. Each one has been researched and tested for its effectiveness. There are many more natural and organic ingredients that can be used in makeup and cosmetics so be sure to read the label of any products you intend to buy and make sure that the ingredients used are as pure as possible.