Safety first: Long COVID will spur interest in cosmetics developed with ISO natural origin index– review

According to this new review from South Korea, interest in skin health has increased in light of long COVID. Long COVID, or post COVID-19 syndrome, references varied persistent symptoms people experience after recovering from the disease.

“COVID-19 has spread to people all over the world. This will become a new indicator for the lives and health of people around the world. Various recent evidence confirms that various symptoms that persist even after acute SARS-CoV-2 infection can persist for a long time.”​

Among common symptoms such as fatigue and shortness of breath, the researchers noted that impact on skin health was found. CosmeticsDesign-Asia​ had previously reported​ that evidence of hair loss triggered by long-COVID could spur demand for effective natural solutions.

“Although the lungs have been identified as the organ most often affected, it has also been confirmed that the skin may also be a target body part and play a role in COVID-19 disease.”​

Some skin issues that have been reported include skin lesions, blusters and rashes. Researchers noted that skin symptoms of COVID-19 may appear in 20% of patients.

“According to these times, consumers are more focused on the safety of their skin. Accordingly, there is an interest in the safety of the ingredients. As a result, awareness of organic and natural cosmetics is growing,” ​the researchers concluded.

According to a survey of 413 people, 67.3% said that cosmetic ingredients should be eco-friendly, while 46.7% regularly checked the ingredient information before use. More than half (56.4%) said that they prefer cosmetics containing organic ingredients.

Highlighting the importance of ISO 16218​

With interest in natural and organic ingredients escalating, the researchers said that more should be done to reduce consumer misunderstanding. For instance, cosmetic companies can rely on third-party certifications.

The review proposed that cosmetic companies adhere to the ISO 16218, which provides guidelines on definitions and criteria for natural and organic cosmetic ingredients and products.

“Reflecting the needs of consumers who want multi-faceted health and beauty management after the long COVID-19, efforts should be made to develop safer edible ingredients using the ISO organic index for natural and organic cosmetics.”​

They clarified that cosmetic manufacturers could indicate ISO 16218 on packaging. “The basics of ISO 16218 must be individually certified for each product to be certified. The certified product name and natural/organic content should be listed. In addition, the company can indicate the text of ISO 16218 and the content of the corresponding ingredient on the package of the certified product.”​

The review concluded: “In the future development of eco-friendly organic cosmetics, in line with the natural and environment-friendly changes reminiscent of the efficacy or ingredients of products, it is necessary to develop cosmetics using the ISO natural organic index that meets the needs of consumers and a differentiated strategy.”​

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Future Perspective Safe Cosmetics: Focused on Associated with ISO Natural Organic​

Authors: Jinkyung Lee, Ki Han Kwon ​

Source: Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology​

https://doi.org/10.1111/jocd.15398​