With the growing concern for the environment, sustainability has gained significant importance in various aspects of life, especially in the beauty world. Many global companies have adopted this concept in the production of their skincare, makeup, and haircare products, using environmentally-friendly ingredients that are free from preservatives, dyes, and animal-derived ingredients. These products follow the principle that “the best of beauty comes from the best of the planet.” Let’s take a comprehensive look at these eco-friendly beauty products and their impact on your daily beauty routine.
What is Sustainable Beauty?
Sustainability refers to responsibly managing available resources and caring for the environment in a way that preserves the foundations of life for future generations. This concept applies to many aspects of life. In the realm of sustainable beauty, it includes cosmetic products that are environmentally-friendly. In other words, sustainable beauty products are formulated and developed according to environmental standards, from raw materials and production processes to recyclable and biodegradable packaging. These products have low carbon emissions and do not harm animals or the environment in any production process. The environmental impact of sustainable beauty products is not only measured by the materials used in production but also by their natural therapeutic effect on the skin, as well as their contribution to reducing negative effects on the environment and preserving the planet.
This doesn’t mean that traditional cosmetics containing chemicals should be feared. The belief that the skin absorbs approximately 60% of these chemicals is incorrect, according to dermatologists. The skin’s absorption of applied substances depends on factors such as molecule size, skin structure, skin temperature, and more. Many chemical ingredients are safe and have undergone multiple clinical tests to ensure their safety and effectiveness on the skin.
Features of Sustainable Products:
Eco-friendly cosmetics contain natural and safe ingredients such as olive oil, argan oil, almond oil, aloe vera, and coconut oil, promoting healthier skin. Additionally, some natural ingredients have antioxidant properties that combat aging.
These products are often highly concentrated, providing exceptional results visible shortly after use. They require smaller amounts compared to traditional products.
Eco-friendly cosmetics cater to all skin types, even sensitive ones, as they are free from preservatives or synthetic fragrances that may cause skin sensitivities.
Manufactured with environmental impact in mind, these products are sulfate-free and free from ingredients that harm the environment. They also come in recyclable packaging.
Sustainable beauty also includes environmentally-friendly skincare products, resulting in less pollution during the manufacturing process.
Sustainable skincare products follow the zero-waste principle. These products are non-toxic, vegan, made from ethically sourced and eco-certified ingredients, and are packaged in waste-free packaging that is biodegradable.
Eco-Friendly vs. Traditional Beauty Products:
The main difference between eco-friendly beauty products and traditional ones lies in their ingredient lists. Traditional cosmetics typically contain silicones, mineral oils, synthetic polymers, preservatives, and artificial fragrances, unlike eco-friendly products, which contain plant-based elements such as plant oils, essential oils, active ingredients, and natural fragrances, replacing synthetic components.