by Mary Teresa Fowler

Created on: April 26, 2009   Last Updated: June 29, 2009

The Future of Natural Beauty

Natural beauty has always been in fashion. From Cleopatra's milk baths to the argan oil used for centuries by Moroccan women, nature has been called on to enhance beauty. There is every reason to believe that the natural trend will continue well into the future.

Global sales of natural and organic cosmetics increase by US $1 billion each year. North American and European companies are the leaders in this cosmetic boom. Asia, however, has the potential to become a prime source for natural and organic ingredients.

Australia is also in an excellent position to capitalize on the natural cosmetics trend. Australia has gained international recognition for its range of high quality cosmetics. The Australia cosmetics industry is seeking markets in more than 60 countries.

India and China also play a part in this latest natural trend in makeup. Cosmetic companies have looked eastward for beauty inspiration. They have discovered it in traditional Chinese and Ayuredic medicine.

Even in the current economy, the industry is still expected to experience growth. The natural cosmetic sector was growing in even greater leaps and bounds before the downturn. Natural cosmetics, however, are still doing extremely well for mainstream retailers. Consumers prefer natural, healthy, eco-friendly cosmetics.

Many retailers are releasing natural cosmetics under their private labels. In Germany, private label products represent 10% of all cosmetic sales. They can often be 3-4 times cheaper than leading brands. These private label natural cosmetics offer quality at an affordable price. The competition among companies is ever increasing as more brands hit the shelves.

The cosmetic ingredient list is also growing and remains an impressive lot. Super foods have found their way into super cosmetics. Blueberries and Goji berries are added to boost the skin's health and beauty. The Brazilian Acai berry is known as the "fountain of youth" and is often the base for anti-aging creams.

Myrrh and turmeric add exotic, mysterious, yet natural elements to cosmetics. Natural cosmetics also use vitamin-rich additions. Baobab is blocked with vitamins but also has incredible anti-aging properties. Acerola is very high in Vitamin C. It can help even out skin tones and brighten complexions.

The natural cosmetic companies want to reach everyone. Women of color have access to natural makeup best suited to their skin. Cosmetic companies also encourage makeup samples, consultations, and advice to be freely available on the retail end.

Cosmetic companies want to spread awareness about natural makeup. They want consumers to know that it is a safe and effective choice. Natural makeup has a fresh look but it can be part of a sophisticated style. The top notch ingredients work together to create a flawless finish.

Natural products have been used for cosmetic purposes since early times. The beauty business strayed from natural ingredients for a period of time. The industry began to introduce the latest chemicals into its products.

The pendulum now seems to be swinging away from questionable elements in makeup. Natural and organic cosmetics seem to be the way of the future. Consumers will demand safe and green choices in cosmetics. The cosmetics industry will then follow and lay the foundation for a future of natural beauty.

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