In a market where consumers no longer rely solely on claims such as “safe” or “organic,” internationally recognized standards have become the true differentiator for brands. One of the world’s most respected certifications is the COSMOS Standard (Cosmetic Organic and Natural Standard), which evaluates not only the formulation but also the entire production ecosystem—from raw materials and processing methods to packaging and environmental ethics.
In Thailand, TIBD Co., Ltd. is at the forefront of elevating the beauty industry to global standards through deep expertise in technology development, management, and commercialization.
This article explores what COSMOS truly represents, why it matters to Thai businesses, and how TIBD is shaping the future of the industry.
Organic Is Not a Claim—It’s a Complete Quality System
While terms like “natural” and “organic” are widely used as marketing language, genuine organic cosmetics must undergo rigorous verification against international standards.
COSMOS was founded by five leading European certification bodies—ECOCERT (France), Soil Association (UK), Cosmébio (France), ICEA (Italy), and BDIH (Germany)—with the purpose of creating a unified global definition for organic and natural cosmetics. The standard ensures transparent, traceable, and environmentally responsible practices across the entire value chain.
What Does the COSMOS Standard Evaluate?
Unlike general marketing claims, COSMOS emphasizes system-level verification, ensuring product integrity from source to shelf.
1. Raw Materials
-
Must come from certified organic agriculture or environmentally friendly extraction processes
-
Prohibits harmful chemicals listed in the COSMOS Negative List, such as PEGs, parabens, silicones, and nanoparticles
2. Processing & Formulation
-
Encourages low-impact methods like cold press, steam distillation, and supercritical CO₂ extraction
-
Requires quality systems and documentation, including PIF (Product Information File) and RMQ (Raw Material Questionnaire)
3. Packaging
-
Prioritizes biodegradable, recyclable, or reduced virgin-plastic materials
4. Transparency & Traceability
-
Full traceability from raw material origins to finished products is mandatory
COSMOS ensures Clean System, not just Clean Claim.
Types of COSMOS Certification
COSMOS ORGANIC
At least 95% of agricultural ingredients must be organic, with organic content forming ≥ 20% of the formula (≥ 10% for rinse-off products).
COSMOS NATURAL
Natural-origin products that may not meet the organic percentage requirement.
COSMOS APPROVED
Raw materials that comply with COSMOS requirements for use in certified formulas.
COSMOS CERTIFIED INGREDIENT
Non-organic but safe and green chemistry–compliant ingredients allowed for use in COSMOS formulations.
These categories help consumers worldwide easily understand the level of organic and natural integrity in a product.
COSMOS and the Opportunity for Thailand
Thailand possesses abundant botanical resources but has historically lacked production systems aligned with global certification requirements.
TIBD sees COSMOS certification as a means of shifting the country from “low-cost manufacturing” to “high-value innovation.”
With COSMOS endorsement, Thai products can access high-potential markets such as Europe, Japan, and Australia—regions where sustainability and clean beauty are key consumer priorities.
TIBD’s Role in the COSMOS Ecosystem
TIBD is more than a consultant—we develop complete technological and quality infrastructures to help Thai companies achieve international certification.
Our core support includes:
• Bioactive Compound Analysis
To verify antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and other functional properties of natural ingredients.
• Green Extraction Technology
Supercritical CO₂ extraction and fermentation processes aligned with COSMOS principles.
• Traceability Systems
Preparation of RMQs, COAs, and technical specifications following EU formats to ensure end-to-end transparency.
• Efficacy Testing
In vitro testing to validate mechanisms of action for active ingredients scientifically and safely.
Through these capabilities, TIBD acts as a strategic partner, enabling Thai brands to enter the global beauty market with confidence and credibility.
TIBD × ECOCERT: Driving Thailand’s Green Beauty Transformation
In 2024, TIBD signed a collaboration agreement with ECOCERT Southeast Asia, the world’s leading COSMOS certification body, to help Thai businesses reach international standards.
TIBD serves as:
-
Consultation Hub – guiding brands and OEMs through the entire certification process
-
Local Education Program Leader – developing training and workshops for COSMOS readiness
-
IQAV System Developer – Independent Quality Assurance Verifier, Thailand’s new mechanism for independent quality validation across supply chains
This collaboration strengthens transparency and elevates Thailand’s beauty industry to a global level.
TIBD’s Recommended Roadmap for Brands Pursuing COSMOS
-
Gap Analysis: Identify differences between current practices and COSMOS requirements
-
R&D Alignment: Reformulate using approved materials and green chemistry
-
Quality Documentation: Prepare all technical files required for audits
-
Audit Training: Ensure teams understand inspection processes and compliance requirements
With TIBD’s end-to-end consulting system, brands can achieve COSMOS certification faster, with lower costs and reduced complexity.
COSMOS: Economic Value and Long-Term Sustainability
TIBD views COSMOS not only as a product standard but as a national strategic opportunity connected to three pillars:
1. Economic Impact
Boosts export potential and supports value creation for farmers and ingredient producers.
2. Social Impact
Creates skilled jobs and promotes green employment practices.
3. Environmental Impact
Reduces harmful chemical usage and minimizes waste across the supply chain.
TIBD aims to be the Innovation – Standard – Commercialization Hub, strengthening Thailand’s position in the global health and beauty landscape.
COSMOS Standard: A Foundation for the Future of Thai Brands
In a world where consumers prioritize authenticity and transparency, COSMOS is not merely a technical certification—it is a symbol of responsibility and brand integrity.
“Standards are the foundation. Innovation is the wings.
TIBD is the bridge that enables Thai brands to rise confidently onto the world stage.”
If you are a brand owner, OEM, or ingredient developer seeking COSMOS certification or wanting to prepare your products to meet COSMOS standards, TIBD provides complete, end-to-end support.
Click here to contact the TIBD consulting team.
