9 best organic body washes that are kinder to your skin

Compared to a decade ago (or even two), consumers are not much more informed on what’s in their personal care products, the ingredients used, and where they come from.

As a result, beauty brands have shifted to accommodate a growing demand for transparency, with many shoppers keen to adopt a more natural lifestyle and seeking organic products.

However finding organic offerings is harder than you’d think, as the term has no legal definition, meaning brands can label products organic, even if only one ingredient in it actually is.

Read more: 13 best plastic-free beauty products that aren’t adding to landfill

Keep your eyes peeled for certification logos on your products, which in the UK is most commonly the Soil Association. According to Clare McDermott, from Soil Association Certification, the regulatory body stamps its seal of approval on products that are made using organically farmed ingredients that are grown without the use of genetically modified organisms (GM), herbicides and synthetic fertilisers, not tested on animals and free from synthetic dyes and artificial fragrances.

The benefits of using organic personal care products is a lengthy list. “Certified organic cosmetic products contain higher levels of antioxidants (up to 60 per cent) and the ingredients are sustainably sourced and biodegradable with a transparent manufacturing process,” says McDermott.

She goes on to explain: “The products contain minimal packaging, with maximum recycled content, and marketing claims on labels are checked and approved. These practices ensure wildlife and biodiversity can be protected.”

If you’re seeking to make your shower routine more eco-friendly, we’ve handpicked the nine best shower gels to help you make simple swaps in your everyday essentials, rating them on texture, scent, price and packaging.

Some have the Soil Association organic logo, while others have accreditation from differing bodies, such as the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Ecocert or Natrue. Additionally, there are also brands that while not certified, use organic ingredients where possible.

All contain high-quality, skin-soothing ingredients across all budgets, from the cheap and cheerful to luxurious shower treats.

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