What does '94% ingredients of natural origin' mean for this shower gel, and how should I interpret this claim?

The claim '94% ingredients of natural origin' refers to the proportion of ingredients in the formula that are derived from natural sources, such as plants, minerals, or water, through permitted physical processing methods (like pressing, distillation, or filtration). In the cosmetics industry, this is a common way to communicate a product's alignment with cleaner or more botanical-inspired formulations. It indicates that the bulk of the shower gel's composition starts from natural raw materials.

It's important to understand that 'natural origin' does not necessarily mean the ingredient is used in its pure, unprocessed state. Many cosmetic ingredients, including some emulsifiers, gentle cleansers, and preservatives necessary for safety and stability, can be derived from natural sources like coconut or sugar through chemical processing. These are still counted as 'of natural origin'. The remaining percentage (6%) typically includes synthetically derived ingredients that ensure the product's efficacy, shelf life, and sensory qualities, such as a precise fragrance blend or a pH adjuster. For this gel, the claim highlights its focus on botanical elements like cherry extract and apricot oil, while the niacinamide is a synthesized form of vitamin B3 chosen for its purity and stability in cosmetic formulas.