When exploring the skincare aisle, you’ll often see terms like natural health product and cosmetic used interchangeably. While they may seem similar, these categories have distinct definitions, regulations, and purposes. Understanding the difference can help you make informed decisions about what you apply to your skin.
Defining the Terms
- Natural Health Products (NHPs):
In Canada, Natural Health Products are regulated under Health Canada’s Natural Health Products Regulations. They include vitamins, minerals, herbal remedies, probiotics, and even topical treatments like medicated creams. An NHP must demonstrate safety, quality, and at least some evidence of efficacy for its intended use. - Cosmetics:
Cosmetics are products applied to the body for cleansing, beautifying, or altering appearance. These include moisturizers, makeup, shampoos, and perfumes. Unlike NHPs, cosmetics are not intended to treat or prevent medical conditions; their main role is to enhance look, feel, and daily care.
The Overlap in Skincare
This is where confusion often arises. For example, a cream infused with botanical extracts may be marketed as a cosmetic if it focuses on hydration and appearance. But if the same cream claims to treat eczema or provide medicinal relief, it may fall under the category of a Natural Health Product.
At Bodywell Natural Skin Care Inc., our focus is on formulating natural, gentle skincare solutions. While our products emphasize beauty and wellness, they also respect the difference between cosmetic care and health-regulated remedies.
Benefits and Downsides
- Natural Health Products:
- Benefits: Evidence-backed claims, regulated for safety, often therapeutic.
- Potential Downsides: Require stricter approvals, may have limited accessibility, not all are purely natural.
- Cosmetics:
- Benefits: Widely available, flexible formulations, daily self-care support.
- Potential Downsides: No therapeutic claims, quality can vary depending on ingredients, regulation is less stringent than NHPs.
Choosing What’s Right for You
If you’re looking for therapeutic results (like relief from skin irritation), a Natural Health Product may be the better choice. If your priority is hydration, glow, and everyday nourishment, cosmetics may suit your needs.
Ultimately, the best approach is balance: incorporating natural, high-quality cosmetics into your routine while turning to Natural Health Products for specific wellness needs.
At Bodywell Natural Skin Care Inc., we believe self-care starts with understanding the products you use, and choosing natural solutions that support both beauty and well-being.