Some of us who have the privilege of living in parts of the world where we can afford “natural” products are focusing our efforts on becoming more eco-conscious, trying to incorporate these products into our daily lives as much as possible. However, I recently came across an eye-opening article from BBC Science Focus that sheds new light on what “natural” really means—and what we should be aware of. The article focuses on the beauty industry and the growing trend of purchasing “natural” and “organic” products. It struck a chord with me because it aligns with the reasons I created this site. But it also reminded me that we all—myself included—need to be better informed so we don’t unknowingly do more harm than good to the planet.
The beauty industry has long been driven by trends—and the current obsession with “natural” and “organic” skincare is one of the most pervasive. From aloe-infused serums to shampoo bars packed with botanicals, brands are eager to position themselves as Earth-loving and clean. But as consumers, we need to ask: Does natural always mean sustainable?
According to the May 2025 issue of BBC Science Focus, the answer is: not necessarily.
The Rise of the “Natural” Label
Global demand for natural and organic cosmetics is surging, expected to generate over £11.3 billion ($14.9 billion) in revenue this year alone. In the UK, the sector is forecasted to hit £210 million ($278 million). But while these products boast minimal synthetic additives and “pure” plant-based formulas, their environmental impact is more complex than it seems.
What the Labels Don’t Tell You
Terms like “natural”, “green”, and “organic” aren’t always backed by strict regulation. Many products labeled as natural contain only a fraction of natural ingredients—or are sourced in ways that harm the environment.
Let’s break down some of the lesser-known truths:
1. Natural Isn’t Always Sustainable
Ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, and essential oils are harvested from ecosystems already under stress. Increased demand can lead to overharvesting, deforestation, and biodiversity loss.
2. Botanical Extraction Uses Resources
Just because something comes from a plant doesn’t mean it’s harmless. Growing, watering, harvesting, and processing large amounts of plant matter consumes energy, water, and land. In some cases, the carbon footprint of natural ingredients can rival or exceed that of lab-made alternatives.
3. Packaging Still Matters
Even the most “clean” formulas are often packaged in plastic, glass, or metal—requiring extraction, manufacturing, and transportation. Many natural brands still use single-use packaging that ends up in landfills.
4. Synthetics Aren’t Always Bad
Not all synthetic ingredients are harmful. In fact, lab-grown versions of natural compounds can be more sustainable because they reduce the need for mass farming or extraction. For example, biosynthetic squalane made from sugarcane is often more ethical and eco-friendly than shark-derived or olive-derived alternatives.
What You Should Look For
Instead of focusing solely on “natural,” seek out brands and products that:
- Use scientifically-backed sustainable sourcing.
- Offer recyclable, refillable, or compostable packaging.
- Are transparent about their supply chains and ingredient origins.
- Employ green chemistry to reduce environmental impact.
- Are certified by recognized sustainability or cruelty-free bodies.
A Better Way Forward
Eco-conscious beauty isn’t about romanticizing nature—it’s about making informed, ethical choices. As the BBC Science Focus article concludes, the beauty industry’s environmental toll is too significant to ignore. Rather than falling for greenwashing, consumers can make an impact by asking the hard questions, supporting verified sustainable brands, and embracing fewer, better products.
This article reminded me that we will make mistakes along the way. And until we have clearer regulations that define what “natural” and “organic” truly mean—and ensure those processes reduce environmental harm—we need to stay open-minded. The “natural” choice isn’t always the most sustainable, or even the most accessible. Awareness, not assumptions, is what leads us to better choices.
References
- BBC Science Focus (May 2025). Here’s What Cosmetic Ingredients You Should Really Be Using If You Want to Protect the Planet