Understanding COSMOS Standards for Natural and Organic Cosmetics

COSMOS Standards Joan Morais Cosmetics School

COSMOS Standards for Natural and Organic Cosmetics

The demand for natural and organic cosmetics continues to grow worldwide. As consumers become more ingredient-conscious, they look for trusted standards and certifications to guide their choices. One of the most recognized certifications for natural and organic cosmetics is COSMOS. Read about the ISO standard here.

What is COSMOS?

COSMOS stands for COSMetic Organic and Natural Standard. It is an internationally recognized standard that harmonizes various European certification bodies, including:

Soil Association (UK)
ECOCERT (France)
BDIH (Germany)
ICEA (Italy)
COSMEBIO (France)

These organizations came together to create a single standard so that cosmetic formulators, brands, and consumers would have one clear guideline for what “natural” and “organic” truly mean in cosmetics.

The Difference Between Natural and Organic in COSMOS

COSMOS certification distinguishes between natural and organic cosmetics:

Natural cosmetics: Made primarily from ingredients derived from nature, plants, minerals, and water. These products must meet strict rules on ingredient sourcing, processing methods, and sustainability. Synthetic ingredients are restricted to a limited approved list.
Organic cosmetics: Go a step further. In addition to being natural, a significant percentage of ingredients (depending on the product type) must be certified organic. For example, a COSMOS ORGANIC product must contain at least 20% organic ingredients in the total product and at least 95% organic ingredients in physically processed agricultural ingredients (like oils, butters, extracts).

COSMOS Certification Labels

Products that meet COSMOS standards display the COSMOS signature on packaging, accompanied by the certifying body’s logo (such as Soil Association or ECOCERT). There are two main categories:

COSMOS NATURAL – Confirms the product is made from natural origin ingredients with responsible sourcing, but it may not contain a high percentage of organic materials.
COSMOS ORGANIC – Confirms the product contains the required minimum of certified organic ingredients and meets all organic formulation rules.

This gives consumers confidence in ingredient sourcing, sustainability practices, and product safety.

Why COSMOS Certification Matters for Cosmetic Formulators

For formulators and brands, COSMOS certification provides:

Credibility and Trust – A recognized seal that reassures consumers the product truly meets natural or organic standards.
Clear Ingredient Guidelines – COSMOS provides a list of approved and prohibited substances, helping formulators choose compliant raw materials.
Sustainability and Ethics – Beyond ingredients, COSMOS also considers packaging, environmental impact, and responsible sourcing.
Global Recognition – COSMOS certification is accepted and respected worldwide, opening international markets for your products.

How to Work with COSMOS Standards as a Formulator

Even if you don’t pursue full certification, understanding COSMOS guidelines is essential when formulating professional natural cosmetics. Key points to keep in mind:

Use plant-based ingredients wherever possible.
Choose certified organic oils, butters, and extracts when available.
Avoid prohibited ingredients such as parabens, silicones, and petrochemicals.
Review the COSMOS-approved preservatives and surfactants list when formulating.
Consider packaging sustainability—recyclable, refillable, or compostable options.

By formulating with COSMOS principles in mind, your products will already align with global natural and organic standards.

Download Notes on this blog

In summary: COSMOS certification defines what it means for a cosmetic to be natural or organic, sets high standards for ingredient sourcing and processing, and ensures sustainability and transparency. For cosmetic formulators, COSMOS is a valuable guide to creating products that meet professional, ethical, and consumer expectations.

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