Certifications

COSMETIC, SKINCARE AND BEAUTY INDUSTRY-WIDE CERTIFICATIONS

What does Vegan mean?

Vegan means that a product does not contain any animal products or animal-derived ingredients. It describes the components rather than the production process. As explained on vegan makeup blog Logical Harmony, "Items that are tested on animals can claim to be vegan."

What does Cruelty-Free mean?

Cruelty-free means that the ingredients/components and final product have not been tested on animals. It refers to the testing process, not the ingredients, which means a cruelty-free product can contain non-vegan ingredients, such as honey, beeswax, lanolin, collagen, albumen, carmine, cholesterol, or gelatin.

What does Non-Gluten mean?

Gluten-free skincare is summed up in its name: It means skincare products that don't have any gluten, or gluten byproducts, in them. "Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, rye, and other grains, so gluten-free skincare cannot contain any of these," said Dr. Leslie Baumann, a Miami-based cosmetic dermatologist.

What does Hypoallergenic mean?

Meaning "below normal" or "slightly" allergenic, was a term first used in a cosmetics campaign in 1953. It is used to describe items (especially cosmetics and textiles) that cause or are claimed to cause fewer allergic reactions. Or the definition of hypoallergenic has a decreased tendency to provoke an allergic reaction.

What does Dermatologist Tested mean?

The term "dermatologist-tested" means that the product was reviewed by a dermatologist, a doctor specializing in treating the skin, hair, and nails. To be sure you're using the best products for your skin, consult your dermatologist.

What does Paraben-Free mean?
Parabens are synthetic chemicals (preservatives) used in beauty products to give them a longer shelf life. They prevent the growth of fungi and other microorganisms in beauty, food, and hygiene products. The term “paraben-free” is meant to let consumers know that these harmful chemicals aren't a part of the product formula. This article will explore why paraben-free products may be better to use and help you get started finding products that have ditched paraben preservatives.

What is does Certified Organic mean?
Organic cosmetics are created from ingredients that have been certified organic by one of the numerous certifying institutions that operate worldwide. An organic ingredient (or natural ingredient) is formally an ingredient that has been harvested without synthetic chemical compounds. Organic cosmetics are produced from the best natural component of plants and flowers that do not result in skin irritation compared to chemical-based cosmetics. Since organic cosmetics do not use synthetic chemicals, you can be sure that your skin is getting the best care.

What does Palm Oil Free mean?
Palm oil free products are often considered to be sustainable. The absence of palm oil as an ingredient is given as a guarantee that a product has been produced with respect for the environment, good labour conditions or human rights. Palm oil has been and continues to be a major driver of deforestation of some of the world's most biodiverse forests, destroying the habitat of already endangered species like the Orangutan, pygmy elephant and Sumatran rhino.

What does SLS-Free mean?
SLS and SLES can irritate eyes, skin, and lungs, especially with long-term use. SLES may also be contaminated with a substance called 1,4-dioxane, which is known to cause cancer in laboratory animals. This contamination occurs during the manufacturing process.

What does Fair Trade Certified mean?
Fair Trade Certified™ goods is an arrangement designed to help producers in growing countries achieve sustainable and equitable trade relationships. Members of the fair trade movement add the payment of higher prices to exporters, as well as improved social and environmental standards. Sustainable Local Producers are always preferred over Unsustainable International Producers. A choice for Fair Trade Certified™ goods is a choice to support responsible companies, empower farmers, workers, and fishermen, and protect the environment.

What does Non-GMO Verified mean?
The “non-GMO” claim means that the food is made without ingredients that were derived from genetically engineered organisms. Meat, poultry, dairy and eggs with a “non-GMO” claim are from animals that were not fed a diet containing genetically engineered crops. But a “Non-GMO” claim on its own is not always trustworthy because it is not always third-party verified. Look for a verified Non-GMO label like the Non-GMO Project Verified seal or USDA Organic seal.

What is Made in Australia?
The Australian Made, Australian Grown trade mark logo signifies products whose ingredients or production mostly originate from Australia. The triangular green-and-gold logo, featuring a kangaroo.

What is Made in Philippines?
The Philippine Made, Philippine Grown trade mark logo signifies products whose ingredients or production mostly originate from Philippines.

What is Made in Thailand?
The Thailand Made, Thailand Grown trade mark logo signifies products whose ingredients or production mostly originate from Thailand.

What is Made in South Korea?
The South Korea Made, South Korea Grown trade mark logo signifies products whose ingredients or production mostly originate from South Korea.

What is Made in Japan?
The Japan Made, Japan Grown trade mark logo signifies products whose ingredients or production mostly originate from Japan.

What is Made in USA?
The USA Made, USA Grown trade mark logo signifies products whose ingredients or production mostly originate from USA.

What is Made in EU?
The EU Made, EU Grown trade mark logo signifies products whose ingredients or production mostly originate from EU.

What is Made in China?
The China Made, China Grown trade mark logo signifies products whose ingredients or production mostly originate from China.