The rising demand for natural and sustainable products has transformed how companies develop formulations and communicate claims in the cosmetics industry. To meet these needs, it’s essential to adopt recognized standards that ensure transparency and compliance. Among these, ISO 16128 stands out as the international standard that defines technical criteria for certifying the natural and organic content of cosmetics.
What is ISO 16128?
ISO 16128 is an international standard with technical guidelines for calculating natural indices for ingredients and finished products. Through specific methodologies, the standard:
- Establishes clear criteria to define natural, natural-derived, organic, and organic-derived ingredients.
- Quantifies the percentage of naturalness and organic content in finished products.
- Supports verifiable claims, increasing consumer trust and market reliability.
How is the Natural Index Calculated?
The natural index of a cosmetic product under ISO 16128 is determined by classifying ingredients into four main categories:
- Natural Ingredients: Raw materials sourced exclusively from plant, mineral, or animal origins.
- Natural-Derived Ingredients: Components derived from natural sources that undergo controlled chemical processes (e.g., emulsifiers derived from coconut oil).
- Organic Ingredients: Raw materials certified organic under local or international agricultural standards.
- Organic-Derived Ingredients: Derived from processed organic raw materials.
Each ingredient is assigned a naturalness score. Based on the formulation’s composition, the total naturalness percentage of the product is then calculated.
Why Adopt ISO 16128?
Implementing ISO 16128 offers strategic advantages, including:
- Transparency and Trust: Providing consumers with reliable information about the percentage of natural and organic ingredients.
- Market Competitiveness: Meeting the demand for green cosmetics with claims backed by recognized international standards.
- Regulatory Compliance: Aligning with global regulations and promoting more sustainable formulation practices.
Technological Benefits for Cosmetic Development
Adopting ISO 16128 enhances transparent communication with consumers while fostering product development aligned with sustainability principles. This allows us to:
- Optimize Formulations: Use qualified ingredients that improve naturalness without compromising product performance.
- Demonstrate Environmental Commitment: Develop products with a reduced environmental impact, promoting an eco-friendly philosophy.
By adhering to ISO 16128, we provide companies with a powerful tool to meet the growing demand for natural and organic claims. This standard enables our clients to ensure transparency, promote sustainable practices, and remain compliant with global regulations.