Eco-chic cosmetics are flooding every beauty store, and thousands of products claim to be natural. Read this simple guide from eco-friendly make-up artist Kaylin Johnson of Kaylin’s Kit and you’ll be on your way to decoding the labels like a pro.

Natural cosmetics are usually advertised as having fewer chemicals or fewer synthetic ingredients than their traditional counterparts. However, there is no certification for “natural,” so read labels carefully.  If you can’t read or recognize most of the ingredients, you may want to consider looking elsewhere.

Organic cosmetic claims are not as strictly enforced as those on food packaging. If a cosmetic is labeled organic, read the label to determine what percentage or which products are certified organic.

Eco-Cert is a certification process started in France that is often found on cosmetics from European manufacturers. This certification is focused on the sustainability of the production process and also certifies some products as organic.

Paraben-free cosmetics do not contain parabens, a particular type of preservative found in many cosmetics. These preservatives have become very controversial, due to a potential link to breast cancer.

Gluten-free cosmetics do not contain gluten. Gluten-free cosmetics are safe for those who have gluten intolerance or celiac disease. Gluten is found in wheat, barley, rye, and some oats.

Cruelty-free cosmetics are not tested on animals. PETA manages this certification, which has a “leaping bunny” logo.

Vegan cosmetics are those created without the use of animal by-products, such as honey, beeswax, and carmine. Most vegan cosmetics are also cruelty-free.

When looking for natural products, remember that each of these labels may exist independent of the others. For example, a product my be vegan but not paraben-free, or a product might be organic and gluten-free. When in doubt, read labels so you can be smart and eco-chic!