Defining natural: from nature, nature-derived and nature identical. What is the difference?

The term "natural" is unregulated which is why big skincare brands are labelling their products as natural, when they still contain synthetic preservatives and fragrance (read my rant here). I am determined to bring back meaning to the term, starting with how I discuss the level of naturalness of my own products. 

‘Natural’ is generally used to describe 3 different levels of ‘from nature’ ingredients. We use the following category definitions in accordance with ISO 16128-2:2017 and Natrue standards: 

1. Natural: unmodified substances from nature obtained physically (e.g., from plants) or from microorganisms (e.g., from fermentation).

2. Derived natural: substances modified from those found in nature using chemical reaction processes. Derived natural substances must only come from 100% natural ingredients (no synthetics).

3. Nature-identical: substances that are reproduced in the lab but that can be found in nature. These are used only when strictly necessary to ensure consumer safety and the purity of ingredients.

The Olympia & Órla philosophy is to always use natural ingredients as defined by points 1 and 2 above, unless there is a better, safer ‘nature-identical’ ingredient. All ingredients are accepted by either Natrue or Ecocert. 

I also specify the percentage of organic ingredients in each product so you can be even more certain of the quality of ingredients being used. 

Take a look at the ingredient glossary to learn which ingredients fall under which definitions and why we have opted for ‘nature-identical’ in some cases.