What is "organic"?
"Organic" refers to how a plant is raised and how it is processed. It means that the plant was grown without the use of synthetic chemicals, fertilizers, or pesticides. It also means that it contains no genetically modified organisms ("GMOs") - or plants, animals, and organisms whose genetic makeup has been changed or engineered by biotechnology. It also means that processes used are gentler on the environment.

What does USDA "certified organic" mean?
It means that an independent agency accredited by the United States Department of Agriculture ("USDA") has verified that a product meets government standards established by the National Organic Program ("NOP"). The USDA organic seal certifying that a product is "organic" means that a product contains at least 95 percent organic ingredients. A product labeled "100% organic" means it contains only organically produced ingredients. For more information visit the USDA website at: www.usda.gov. (Note: There are other certifying agencies outside the U.S. such as the U.K. Soil Association in Great Britain and the Organic Food Chain in Australia.)

What is "natural"?
There is currently no U.S. government regulation of what constitutes a "natural" personal care product. While the government can take action against companies that make false or misleading claims on product labels, it does not have a standard for what a "natural" product is, nor does it test any personal care or cosmetic product before it goes on the market. However, in general, "natural" ingredients refer to plant extracts and other ingredients from nature that do not have harsh synthetic substances added to them, that are minimally processed, and have not been significantly altered from their original states. The Natural Products Association, an industry group with a voluntary membership, has developed its own standards and certification requirements for what constitutes a "natural" product. One of their requirements is that personal care products labeled or branded "natural" must be made with at least 95% all-natural ingredients. Products meet the NPA's specifications and pass their certification process may carry their seal. For more information visit their site at www.naturalproductsassoc.org.

Why use organic and natural products?
Organic and natural products offer purity, quality, and effectiveness. They do not contain potentially harmful chemicals like pesticides and herbicides. They are created using minimal production processes that do not use petroleum waxes, fillers and harsh synthetic chemicals found in many conventional products.

Are all your products organic or natural?
Yes. Our trusted brands provide certified organic products or have products that use organic and natural ingredients. All ingredients for each product are clearly listed on our website, as we require full ingredient listings from manufacturers. We offer only those brands that meet our strict requirements and guidelines. We do not offer products with harsh synthetic preservatives, artificial colors or fragrances. The products are paraben-free, free of petrochemicals, fillers, and chemical additives found in many conventional products. Also, our products are never tested on animals.

Are the products you offer "hypoallergenic"?
There is currently no federal standard or definition for the term "hypoallergenic."  However, generally it means that a product is found to pose a low potential to irritate or cause allergic reactions. Many of the products that Bellafloria offers uses organic and natural, plant-based ingredients that are gentle and are well-tolerated by those with sensitive skin. However, some products do contain essential oils that may cause irritation in some people. If you have known allergies, read the ingredient lists that are provided with each product description in order to avoid a potential reaction.  We highly recommend trying samples of products you have not used before to rule out any allergic reactions.  Bella Floria offers free samples (with a purchase) of many of our skin care and personal care products.

How will using organic and natural products make a difference?
Results vary from person to person, and are based on one's health, skin condition, as well as diet and lifestyle. Organic product manufacturers believe that with regular and routine product use, consumers will get benefits of high quality skin care while cutting down the unknown, cumulative effects of synthetic chemicals found in many traditional products.