It wouldn’t be New Zealand’s inaugural Organic Week if I didn’t cover some of the country’s much-loved certified organic skincare brands.
But, what does organic certification really mean for us as consumers? According to the main certifying body in New Zealand, BioGro, organic health and beauty products should:
- Be fit for their purpose;
- Have as high as possible proportion of organic ingredients (minimum 95%);
- Be clearly identified, traceable and separate from non-organic products at all stages of manufacturing;
- Not be tested on animals;
- Not be harmful to human health and the environment in manufacture and use; and
- Be labelled to give clear and accurate information to the consumer.
Additionally, genetically modified (GMO) ingredients and GM technology are expressly prohibited. You can read the full BioGro standards here.
If you have a favourite certified organic Kiwi brand that I haven’t mentioned here, please let me know in the comments!
Antipodes
Antipodes is a Scientifically Validated Organic Beauty™ brand pioneering a new niche in skincare: “certified organic and premium natural products with skin performance proven by science”, with Vinanza antioxidants from New Zealand-grown superfruit, nutrient-rich avocado oil, and anti-blemish manuka honey. What I also love about Antipodes is their ethics and transparency, which shows through in every product they formulate.
Linden Leaves
I’m a big fan of this iconic Kiwi brand’s Natrue certified range, with many of the products a constant on my bathroom sink. When it comes to certified organic, Linden Leaves’ avocado oil, evening primrose oil, rosehip oil and white tea extract are what to look out for. The latter two can be found in the Miraculous Facial Oil.
Oxygen Skincare
Oxygen Skincare have two certified organic products in their all-natural range: Eye Crème and Ultimate Botanical Serum. However, every product does contain BioGro certified organic hops, grown on the founders’ family farm in Tapawara, Nelson, New Zealand. While usually used for beer making, Oxygen includes hops due to its anti-inflammatory and skin toning properties (great for treating acne and other skin issues).
Plantae
The entire Plantae range is certified organic, and is formulated with natural botanicals for their soothing and healing properties. This is a company that cares deeply about the products they produce—and their efficacy—but also the land from which they are derived: “Our skincare captures New Zealanders’ deep love and respect for our land, waterways and people; giving equal attention and care to the earth and its peoples.”
Trilogy Rosehip Oil
Trilogy’s certified organic rosehip oil has become somewhat of a cult product in the natural beauty world. High in Vitamin C, rosehip can be used for reducing scars and stretchmarks, balancing and hydrating the skin and smoothing fine lines and wrinkles. According to the brand, the highest quality rosehip oil is sourced from the mountainous regions of Chile and South Africa.
