Romita Mazumdar, Founder & Entrepreneur (Foxtale)
Sustainability is not just a trend anymore, it has become a lifestyle. But how do we define sustainability? Using products that are kind to the environment and don’t harm the planet is the idea behind sustainability. To avoid over-consumption of natural resources and reduce the carbon footprint, it is necessary to balance human needs with environmental ones. Recycling, reducing waste, and shopping from sustainable brands are just a few of the many options for being sustainable in your daily life.
The concept of sustainability for beauty brands
The concept of sustainability is often discussed in the beauty and skincare industry. There is a lot of interest in sustainable products, and many people want to know how to buy them.
It has been argued that the beauty industry has a negative impact on the environment and human health, as well as on climate change. This is why the beauty industry has embraced eco-friendly ingredients and packaging. Brands have started to realize that they need to take action to stay relevant in the future.
Even consumers know how important sustainability is and ask for the same. Natural or renewable resources, packaging products in recyclable materials, and organic components are some of the ways that certain brands have started to practice sustainability.
5 things to consider while choosing a sustainable beauty brand
The beauty industry is a multi-billion-dollar industry, but it also has a high environmental impact. Hence, brands are increasingly looking for ways to make themselves sustainable. The objective of sustainable beauty is opting for products that are beneficial for your skin and are at the same time kinder to the environment. Here are the 5 things to look for while picking a sustainable beauty brand:
#1 Quality skincare with transparency
As people are getting aware of what’s in their products and how it affects their skin, brands have also become transparent about the ingredients they use and how they are sourced. Apart from supreme quality skincare, ingredient transparency has become a necessity. When choosing a sustainable beauty brand, look for the complete ingredients list on the product’s packaging labels. It will help determine the suitability and environmental-friendliness of the product.
#2 Vegan and Cruelty-Free Application
Another crucial thing that you should look for before choosing a sustainable beauty brand is if it is vegan and cruelty-free. This has to be one of the major things to look out for in a sustainable brand. Ensure that the brand does not use any animal-driven products in the formulation. Animal testing is facing solid resistance worldwide. Hence cruelty-free products are the next big thing in the beauty industry.
#3 Environment-friendly Packaging
Emphasizing the packaging, it should be eco-friendly, recyclable, and does not involve using any plastic or disposable containers. In addition, some companies provide their products in refillable containers or glass packaging, both of which can contribute significantly to the reduction of waste.
#4 Sustainable Sourcing of Ingredients
Generally, people are unaware of what they are putting on their skin as they fall into the trap of product marketing. It is essential to know where the ingredients come from and if they are environmentally viable. Opt for brands that exercise sustainability and ethical sourcing of ingredients. It is crucial to discern the origins of all the ingredients that go into making a skincare product.
#5 Sulfate and Paraben-free
Some chemicals such as sulfates and parabens are needed to preserve the product for extended shelf-life. However, they might not be environmentally friendly or sustainable. Choose brands that use milder and safer alternatives to parabens such as Phenoxyethanol or Sodium Benzoate for safer application on your skin.
