Modern consumers are more likely to purchase skincare products which are “green”; the manufacturing process is receiving more attention than ever before. There has been a gradual increase in businesses dealing with sustainable cosmetics and skincare products.
We’re all gradually gaining knowledge on the effects our actions directly have on the world we live, and our environmental responsibilities. Micro-plastics are abundantly present in the oceans of which we are yet to know the effects, diesel cars pump out toxic pollutants causing respiratory illnesses in children. The true list of negative effects we’ve had on the environment is staggering, and the outcomes of which are quite simply unpredictable. One thing we know for certain, they won’t be any good.
With this increased concern, it only makes sense that the products we use on a daily basis reduces waste and mitigates any further damage. Reusing products and purchasing natural, sustainable products is gaining traction (e.g. paper straws in restaurants). These products are typically more expensive but it’s becoming common practice to spend an additional few pounds to ‘do your part’.
In addition to the environmental aspect, more research is being published on common cosmetic products and their long and short term health effects. Aluminium present in antiperspirants has been linked to breast cancer. While not all cases are so severe, a natural product which yields the same effects as a synthetic one with an extensive manufacturing process is likely the more sustainable option.
Companies are also creating more sustainable products; understanding that they too have some corporate responsibility. Entrepreneurs are also taking action to take advantage of this increase in demand, the number of natural/organic skincare brands has seen a sharp increase since 2017.
How is sustainability defined with such cosmetic products?
It involves a combination of production processes as well as the ingredients used. Testing should be cruelty-free (i.e no animal testing), and possibly contain no animal products (vegan certified). Other things include being GMO-free and certified organic among others.
So, what will 2021 bring?
Personally, I feel more sustainable companies are to emerge. There is clearly demand which is increasing as more of the population is informed. With that, here are the top four in my opinion which you should check out:
- Botanicals https://www.botanicals.co.uk/
- Weleda https://www.weleda.co.uk/
- Acure https://acure.com/
- annmarie https://www.annmariegianni.com/