4 Tips For Choosing Eco-Friendly Cosmetics
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By PAGE Editor
The cosmetic industry is known to have one of the most significant influences on the status of the global environment. Unfortunately, the impact is mainly hostile due to harsh chemicals, plastic packaging, and animal testing. The substances and packaging significantly contribute to waste in landfills, soils, and oceans.
On top of this, the number of animals that suffer from laboratory testing for cosmetics is hard to ignore. As such, many cosmetic consumers now advocate for eco-friendly products that are safe for both the environment and animals.
In effect, organic cosmetics and organic skincare products have now considerably changed the beauty industry. While the quality of cosmetic products is still an important factor considered by shoppers, many are now expecting brands to be sustainable, environmentally friendly, and ethical. The brand’s core values and commitment to the protection of the environment and biodiversity can now determine whether people will patronize them or not.
If you’re thinking about how you can switch to more eco-friendly options when it comes to shopping for beauty products, you can consider the following tips:
Support Sustainability
Nowadays, many cosmetic products support sustainability by using eco-friendly packaging, minimizing carbon footprint, and using sustainable materials. For instance, many shampoos, deodorant, and toothpaste brands sell their products in packaging-free form. Instead of the usual bottle and tube packaging, they now come in bars, creams, and tablet forms which use minimal packaging using biodegradable materials.
Another example is the Sunscreen Powder which transformed the common cosmetic item into powder form in a refillable container. These transformations will, in effect, drastically reduce the plastic waste coming from cosmetic products.
Apart from changes in packaging, many also use sustainable materials in formulating their products to lessen the use of natural resources. For instance, the petroleum-based ingredients used in traditional cosmetic formulations have been replaced by more eco-friendly and sustainable elements such as plants, flowers, and even fruits. These natural products are produced through organic farming and biodynamic agriculture, which support a more sustainable source and contribute to natural preservation.
Opt For Organic
Many traditional cosmetics commonly contain mineral oils, silicones, preservatives, and artificial fragrances. These chemicals can be harmful to consumers and the environment.
For instance, the chemical oxybenzone frequently used in sunscreens has been linked to several types of allergies in humans and is known to be dangerous for coral reefs. Hence, more and more beachgoers now opt for organic sunscreen products.
Aside from sunscreen, you are likely to find an organic counterpart to every cosmetic item you have in your collection. Most of the ingredients listed on the packaging of organic products should be 95% natural. Common ingredients in organic products are vegetable oils, essential oils, plant enzymes, and natural fragrances. Apart from their natural sources, the ingredients of organic cosmetics are commonly grown pesticide-free which is usually mentioned in the ingredient list.
Consider The Source Of Fragrances
Synthetic fragrances usually contain chemicals that may pose health risks. For instance, many perfumes use phthalates to help scents last longer. However, apart from their chemical composition, phthalates have been known to cause damage to the liver, lungs, and reproductive system. Some synthetic scents containing petrochemicals can also cause nausea, migraines, and lung irritation.
This is why aside from the main ingredients, you’ll also have to consider the fragrance component to protect yourself and the environment from harmful chemicals.
Choose Cruelty-Free Products
Many companies have actively supported the campaign against animal testing, and more consumers now prefer cruelty-free makeup brands. This is because apart from the ethical issues of harming animals during testing, technological advancements have allowed companies to test their products in more humane ways. Also, animal-tested products usually contain harsh chemicals that can be unhealthy for the skin—as such, supporting these brands is a great way to keep your cosmetic collection eco-friendly. After all, the efforts to better care for the environment extend to all living creatures.
Conclusion
The rise of conscious consumerism in recent years has dramatically helped cosmetic shoppers to become aware of the consequences their buying behavior can bring to the well-being of the planet as a whole. While many people continue to buy cheap cosmetics, often produced in poor quality and enormous quantities, there have been some impressive changes in the cosmetic industry.
Many started to realize that they have the power to bring change where it’s needed and that the collective effort of ordinary consumers can have a massive impact on how humanity can improve its treatment of nature. Therefore, switching to eco-friendly cosmetic products may be an excellent way for you to contribute towards improved care and protection of the planet positively.
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