Glossary · Labelling & formulation

ISO 16128

What it means

The ISO guidelines on technical definitions and criteria for natural and organic cosmetic ingredients (Part 1, 2016) and the way to calculate natural and organic origin indexes for ingredients and products (Part 2, 2017). The standard defines how to calculate the indexes; it does not set claim thresholds or replace certification schemes such as COSMOS.

Sources: 12

Why it matters

Getting this right early shapes the formula, the label and the claims, and avoids costly reformulation once a product is close to launch.

How Guires CSL applies it

Guires CSL formulation, testing, clinical and regulatory teams work with ISO 16128 on client projects every week, from the first brief to the final product file.

Natural & Ayurvedic cosmetics

References

  1. Standard ISO 16128-1:2016. Guidelines on technical definitions and criteria for natural and organic cosmetic ingredients and products — Part 1: Definitions for ingredients. www.iso.org
  2. Standard ISO 16128-2:2017 (Amd 1:2022). Cosmetics — Guidelines on technical definitions and criteria for natural and organic cosmetic ingredients — Part 2: Criteria for ingredients and products. www.iso.org

Regulations and standards are listed first, then peer-reviewed literature. Sources checked October 2026.

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