It seems that everywhere you look you are bombarded with the words, 'natural' or 'organic' but do we truly know the meaning of these words? What is the difference between natural and organic makeup? In the hopes of obtaining healthier products we tend to reach for the natural or organic brands. Although these words may seem similar it is important to be aware of the differences and to make an informed decision when purchasing such products.

A product labeled "natural" simply means that it has not been chemically altered from its original state and nothing has been removed or added. Natural products are derived from natural plants or animal sources but the use of the term is not regulated or certified. However, organic means that a product has been manufactured, produced and distributed through organic means, which are defined by specific guidelines set by organizations such as the Organic Food Products Act. Organic products are made with ingredients grown without synthetic chemicals, sewage sludge or GMO's (genetically modified organisms). Products labeled as "organic" are not permitted, by law, to contain synthetic ingredients. Just as the public is consuming more natural or organic products, they are now seeking for natural and organic makeup.

There are many guidelines when distinguishing natural and organic for food products, yet the same regulations and standards are not applied to makeup and skincare products. Some of the harmful chemicals found in non-organic skin care or makeup products are:

• Mercury
• Dioxane
• Nitrosamines
• Alcohol, Isopropyl
• DEA
• Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
• Cyclomethicone
• Polyethylene Glycol

The skin absorbs many of these harmful ingredients and the body has no way of ridding itself these chemicals. Since the body cannot excrete these chemicals, the toxins remain and can spread throughout the body and can cause irreversible damage. The best way to make sure natural makeup is truly all natural is to look at the ingredients list on the packaging. All natural makeup should not have any man-made ingredients or ingredients modified by chemicals.

Unlike skin products that are needed to absorb into the skin, the skin should not absorb makeup. With makeup, our ultimate desire is to keep the makeup on the skin and preferably where we place it. For this reason, many prefer organic makeup products. Because of the growing demand for more natural products, consumers are becoming more selective in the cosmetics department. On the market you will find products claiming to be 'all natural' or 'organic'. For individuals who are concerned with testing of animals, they will choose organic products, but it is wise to read the labels of every product you decide to purchase.

A product that continues to gain popularity is called organic mineral makeup. This makeup is organic and contains no chemicals or by-products. These products are also not tested on animals. The premise behind the mineral make-up is that it will not be absorbed into the skin and will leave your skin looking natural. Some companies also claim that it is safe to sleep in such products. Because of the popularity that mineral makeup has gained, many companies are claiming to have the best organic makeup products. Once again it is advised to read all labels, although the products may look all-natural, they can still contain harmful chemicals that can be absorbed by the skin.

For the most part mineral makeup is found to be the safest type of makeup on the market today. Mineral makeup started out in powder form, but many companies are now introducing natural mineral makeup in liquid form as well. The mineral makeup is not limited to foundation, it can be found as eye makeup and lip products as well. The liquid variety has become popular because of the ease of application and the decrease in waste involved. The powder form is not as easy to control as the liquid mineral makeup seems to be.

Many will choose all-natural makeup because the word 'natural' implies that no chemicals have been used. However, many of the cosmetics used today are still tested on animals, which is something that individuals looking for organic or natural products generally frown upon. Some very popular brands of cosmetics use animal testing for their products. It is common for many companies to test their eye makeup on animals for safety, but natural makeup companies are using other methods. It is wise to read the labels carefully and become aware of which companies are still using animals for their testing purposes, you will be amazed at how many popular brands still use this practice.

The difference between natural and organic makeup as mentioned is not limited to foundations or facial powders, but have expanded to natural lip gloss, lipsticks, facial scrubs and natural eye makeup. As for lotions and facial scrubs the concern is the type of product you will be applying on your skin. It is wise to keep in mind that the skin will ultimately absorb these products, so it is important to read the label thoroughly and be informed. Synthetic and questionable ingredients will ultimately be absorbed into the skin. Just as you read labels on food products because of our concerns with health and well being, it is equally as important to be just as proactive when choosing skin care products and makeup.

Ultimately the choice between organic makeup and natural makeup is up to the consumer. Just as you are looking to improve your overall health with more natural and organic choices, making the choices for skin care and makeup are just as important. Most importantly, being informed will help you make the choices that are right for you as an individual. Natural make up products, as well as organic products, are now more abundantly available. The labels will give the information needed to distinguish between natural, organic makeup ingredients and synthetic ingredients. Learning, reading and being informed is the best choice in the end.