From clean formulas with safe ingredients to readily recyclable packaging, there’s never been a better time to make the switch to a greener, cleaner beauty routine.
In today’s health-conscious landscape, we’re becoming increasingly aware that in order to do well by our skin, it’s worth paying attention to what we’re putting on it. What was once a niche trend, has now blossomed to the mainstream. Whether you’re looking to simplify your current routine or find the best reef-friendly mineral sunblock, here is our rundown on what to keep in mind when browsing skincare.
Reduce and Recycle
The beauty industry is getting in on the Earth-saving action too, with more and more companies offering recyclable, compostable, or biodegradable packaging alternatives. Known as zero waste or no-waste beauty, here are some of our favourite brands that are doing their part to reduce as much unnecessary waste as possible.
Cruelty Free
Differentiating the meaning of countless logos and labels in the beauty sphere can get a little confusing, especially when the umbrella of clean beauty is as big as it is. Vegan doesn’t necessarily mean cruelty free and cruelty free doesn’t mean it’s vegan. But to know if your beauty product is not tested on animals, simply look for the white and pink bunny on the packaging. If you’re looking to make the switch to cruelty-free beauty, be on the look out for brands like Anastasia Beverly Hills, Rare Beauty and REN Clean Skincare.
Vegan
One thing we need to remember is that vegan isn’t synonymous with natural, organic, or even cruelty-free (in fact, vegan makeup can sometimes be even more chemically-processed). Vegan simply means that no animal-derived ingredients are formulated within the product. Even beauty tools are getting a greener revamp,with Sephora releasing brand new vegan brushes. Other favourites include Kat Von D and Comfort Zone.
Small Act of Kindness
Cheers to the brands that go beyond making you look good! Now some are using their platforms for change and aid too! From helping girls’ education to saving bees and beyond, even one purchase can make the biggest difference. One of our favourite initiatives comes from the brand La Mer. Their recent Blue Heart campaign didn’t even require anyone to purchase a product. Instead, it asked people to use their hashtags and then the brand automatically donated $25 with each shared post. Other brands we love, which equally give back are Tatcha and The Body Shop.
Words to Know
Natural – Powered solely by plants and botanical ingredients
Organic – Ingredients are grown without genetic modification or chemical fertiliser
Hypoallergenic – Marketing term created to inform consumers that product won’t cause an allergic response in most people.
Non-comedogenic – A key term for those who are prone to acne, when products are non-comedogenic it means that the product guarantees to not block pores, limiting the build up of acne.
Fair Trade – Transparency and equity in the sourcing and production process can earn a beauty item a fair trade recognition.
Fragrance – Free – No synthetic fragrance has been added to the product.
Unscented – This means no particular scent was chosen for the product.
Parabens – Harsh chemical preservative that extends the shelf life of beauty products.
