It sounds so simple – and in reality, it's harder than ever: to find out if a product is truly "natural and honest." In an era where everything wants to appear green, pure, and gentle, it's easy to lose track. The word natural cosmetics is not protected, and many exploit precisely that. Packaging is designed "naturally," texts are lovingly crafted – but inside, there's often little natural content. High-quality plant oils that could truly nourish our skin have been increasingly replaced: by paraffin, petroleum jelly, silicones, and other synthetic fats that feel good but do little. And while large campaigns celebrate "nature" as a magic word, many products contain only minimal amounts of genuine, valuable active ingredients.
Amidst all these voices, it became clear to me: If I want to make organic cosmetics, then only properly – all or nothing.
Why 100% Organic is not just a word – but protection for you
One often hears: "20% organic is enough." But what does that really mean? If a product is not completely organic, it will always be mixed – precious organic raw materials with conventional ingredients, whose origin and processing are often obscure.
And with them, things get onto the skin that don't belong there: residues of pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, or synthetic fertilizers. Substances that can irritate our skin barrier – and more and more studies also show effects on our organism and our health. It is difficult to provide complete proof for such claims, but one thing is clear: large corporations do everything to dilute the discussion, sow doubt, and leave questions unanswered.
For me, that was not an option. That's why my Demeter cosmetics are 100% organic – in every single ingredient. This is also the only way to guarantee that no genetic engineering enters your organic cosmetics! Because your skin deserves the best. And because trust is non-negotiable.
0% Nonsense – why less is so much more
Liquid microplastics in shower gels and shampoos? Unfortunately, a reality. Three out of four care products contain them – and we consume about 5 grams of microplastics per week. Silicones, synthetic fragrances, plasticizers, and preservatives are also among the "silent fellow travelers" we encounter daily without noticing. They extend shelf life, achieve quick effects – but they do little for skin health.
What's more: they can disrupt the natural skin microbiome, that living protective layer that accompanies and protects us daily. If this balance is disturbed, the skin becomes more sensitive, drier, and more vulnerable.
That's why for me: No microplastics, no palm oil, no genetic engineering, no questionable fragrances.
Not because it's trendy – but because health and the environment are non-negotiable.
Regional active ingredients – because quality doesn't have to travel
Many cosmetic raw materials fly halfway around the world before ending up in a jar. But long transport routes not only mean a high ecological footprint – they often also mean a loss of quality. And even with "organic ingredients," caution is advised. There are countless certifications, many of which are far less strict than those we are used to here. And since there is no mandatory declaration of origin, it often remains unclear under what conditions a raw material was grown or processed and which pesticides & fertilizers are used, some of which have long been banned here.
I work with raw materials that grow directly here: on biodynamic soils, in the fresh air of the Wachau. Harvested and processed before they lose their potency. The shorter the distance, the more intense the effect – and the more honest the product. Nature works best when it's fresh.
Real people instead of anonymous mass production
Behind each of my care products are real people: those who tend the vines, harvest the active ingredients, process the raw materials, label, fill, package, and ship. Regional printing companies, small workshops, partners I know and value – they are all part of the value creation.
In an era where everything is getting bigger, faster, more global, I firmly believe that true sustainability emerges in the small things.
In collaborative work.
In human closeness.
In appreciation.
And that's precisely what makes my Demeter cosmetics so valuable: they are much more than a promise of beauty. They are a piece of the region. A piece of responsibility. A piece of nature that endures.
