The truth about natural skincare: how to read labels and spot misleading claims
- Kim Guseli
- Oct 5
- 3 min read
Updated: 5 days ago
Not all “natural skincare” is as natural as it sounds. The truth is, skincare labels can be confusing, and the word “natural” is not regulated in Australia. This means a product can use the term freely, even if it contains only a small amount of plant-based ingredients.
In this post, we will walk you through what “natural” skincare really means, how to read a label with confidence, and how to avoid misleading marketing so you can choose skincare you can trust.
What does natural skincare really mean?
A truly natural skincare product should be made mostly from ingredients that come from nature. That includes things like:
● Cold-pressed plant oils
● Botanical extracts
● Butters like shea and cocoa
● Clay and waxes
These ingredients are often selected for their gentle nature, environmental safety and ability to support the skin without irritation. But because there is no legal definition of “natural” in skincare, many products use the term loosely.
How to spot truly natural skincare
Here are five ways to check whether a product is actually natural:
Look for common names. Ingredients should be listed clearly. Brands that list only scientific names without translation may be trying to confuse or overwhelm.
Avoid vague terms. Words like “nature identical” or “plant-inspired” are often marketing language without real meaning.
Be cautious with “fragrance.” If fragrance is listed without explanation, it may include hidden synthetic ingredients.
Look for signs of ingredient integrity such as vegan and cruelty-free.
What greenwashing looks like in skincare
Many brands use green packaging or “eco” branding while continuing to use synthetic fillers, preservatives and fragrance. This is known as greenwashing, creating the illusion of a clean, conscious product without truly making ingredient changes.
Some common signs of greenwashing:
● Using brown or recycled-look packaging to suggest “earthy” values
● Claims like “free from nasties” without naming what is included
● Making a big deal of one natural ingredient that is barely present
Our approach at Botanical Skincare Lab
We use ingredients like Kakadu Plum, Australian Pink Clay, shea butter and jojoba oil because they are gentle, effective and truly natural. All of our formulas are made without synthetic fragrance, parabens or harsh preservatives.
We believe people should be able to understand what they are putting on their skin. That is why we list every ingredient and explain why it is there. No surprises. No greenwashing.
What natural skincare should feel like
Natural skincare should not feel like a compromise. A well-formulated product:
● Absorbs cleanly
● Leaves skin feeling soft and comfortable
● Avoids irritation
● Works with your skin’s own natural processes
If a product leaves your skin feeling coated, tight or stinging, that is not a good sign, no matter what the label says.
Frequently asked questions
Is natural skincare better for sensitive skin?
It can be. Natural ingredients are often gentler and less likely to cause irritation, but always patch test and read the full ingredient list.
Can synthetic ingredients be safe?
Yes, some synthetic ingredients are safe and even beneficial. The concern is when they are used to bulk out formulas or replace higher quality natural ingredients.
How do I know which ingredients are synthetic?
A good rule of thumb is to look for common natural names. If the list is full of hard-to-pronounce chemicals and vague terms, it is worth digging deeper.
In summary
Choosing natural skincare is not just about being eco-conscious. It is about choosing what works in harmony with your body and what reflects your values. Take the time to flip the bottle, read the label and ask questions.
And if you are ever unsure, we are always happy to walk you through our ingredient lists. Because natural skincare should never rely on blind trust. It should earn it.
Written by Kim Guseli, Cosmetic Chemist & Founder of Botanical Skincare Lab
Kim formulates and handcrafts every product in her Hervey Bay Atelier, combining science, sustainability, and sensory design. Her work focuses on crafting eco-friendly, sustainable skincare that delivers real results while treading lightly on the planet.
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