The prevalence of calamities and other effects of environmental degradation has recently given rise to the ecological and social concern against various consumerist practices. In that regard, the UN has delivered a dire warning on the topic of carbon emissions, which contribute to climate change at an alarmingly fast rate. As a result, it is more important than ever to engage in ecological discourse and abandon old habits that directly impact the environment and humanity.
A portion of the ecological discourse has to do with the beauty industry, a $500 billion giant that is undoubtedly under the scrutiny of various institutions for unethical practices and causing severe harm to the world. Thus, some companies have shifted their gears toward corporate social responsibility by creating sustainable beauty products.
Nevertheless, for an environmental-friendly beauty industry to strive, consumers need to change the way they think and start dropping brands that have not adapted to the call for sustainability. It may be daunting and heartbreaking to let go of your favorite beauty essentials, but here are some reasons why going for sustainable beauty is ultimately more beneficial than their unethical counterparts.
Beauty On The Inside Out
The coveted ingredients list is one of the most important aspects of beauty and self-care products. You may be reluctant to let go of your favorite serum, face oil, or toner because they are your go-to products whenever you break out. But many of these products are packed full of chemicals and a list of ingredients that you can barely pronounce. For instance, alcohol is a culprit found in most toners made for oily skin. When combined with active ingredients, it strips off layers of your skin and leaves it sensitive and irritated.
Meanwhile, ingredients such as lanolin and collagen may have positive effects on the skin, but they are conclusively non-vegan and likely involve cruel testing practices. Brands that focus on sustainable beauty make it a point to eliminate as many chemicals as possible and create products that are organic, natural, and cruelty-free.
Undeniable Effectivity
Many people are reluctant to switch to sustainable beauty brands because of the fear that all-natural ingredients would be inefficient in solving skin problems. However, that is not the case, as natural ingredients are more likely to save your skin from further damage. Instead of using an alcohol-based product that strips the barrier of the skin, opt for rosewater, which is a natural anti-inflammatory and antiseptic astringent that tones more effectively than alcohol.
There are many layers involved in sustainability, and one of those is a thoughtful manufacturing process. Apart from a workflow designed to cause as little harm as possible to the environment, the use of natural ingredients is highly beneficial and considerate toward consumers. In the long run, it is significantly healthier to choose products that will not leave permanent damages to your skin. Be brave and switch up your routine — you will surely find new, ethical products that work better than your current line-up!
Plastic-Free
Statistics show that around 8 million pieces of plastic pollutants make their way into the world’s oceans every day. Imagine your favorite skincare products ending up in whales’ stomachs and rendering millions of marine species homeless and sick. A large part of sustainability involves eliminating as much carbon footprint as possible, and production-wise, that means letting go of plastic.
Most makeup and skincare essentials come with plastic packaging, and in an industry so large, you should be worried about its impact toward the future. The first and most essential thing you can do to help the environment is to stop purchasing products made of plastic and instead opt for glass or paper-made packaging. It is not possible to eliminate all plastic use at this point, but reducing its content in the production process is a significant contribution to the world.
While some companies are taking leaps toward the ecological and social concern behind beauty, the most significant jump toward sustainability lies in your hands. Choosing sustainable beauty products is not a huge challenge when you understand its impact on the environment. Give it a try and be surprised by how well it will work for you!
