Why do some organic cosmetics get a low score on apps?

It has surely happened to you at some point: you scan a natural cosmetics product that seems healthy at first sight and it gets a very low score on your app.

We explain the real meaning behind this score which is, in fact, a little unfair…

Why does it get this “bad” score?

These apps penalise, at first glance, the presence of allergens such as limonene, linalool or geraniol. These compounds are present in some essential oils and, therefore, in the natural cosmetics that contain them, although this does not mean that they are harmful for everyone nor in any amount.

Allergens are naturally present in the pure plant-based ingredients we use when formulating our products (in plants such as lavender or citrus fruits, for instance)

Ingredients and the EU

EU law requires allergens to be listed on cosmetic labels when their presence is higher than 0.001%. This is intended as protection for people with specific sensitivities.

Databases and the algorithm

There are databases from which these apps “take the information”, and they automatically classify this type of component as “critical” without considering the context, which results in a lower score that does not take into account the origin nor the amount in the formula.

So then… how can I know what is really good or bad?

Beyond using apps that can help us identify certain products, it is very useful to have a basic understanding of how to read an INCI, identify natural ingredients and recognise organic certification seals.

Conclusion

Although a natural cosmetics product may appear with a low score on your app at first sight make sure you know how to read and identify the information correctly. Bear in mind that, if you are someone who does not suffer from allergies:

- The ingredients come from a 100% natural origin

- The allergens are present in extremely small amounts

- They are far from posing any real risk

So if your favourite product appears with a poor score, do not worry, natural cosmetics are formulated to safeguard your safety and the planet’s, following strict standards of sustainability and transparency.