Traditional beauty industry has long been criticised for its excessive use of plastic packaging, wasteful practices, and reliance on synthetic ingredients that can be harmful to the environment
In a world where beauty standards evolve faster than the seasons, a new paradigm is emerging—one that transcends mere aesthetics. It provides people with a means to express themselves and elevate their sense of self, based on their preferences. However, like all industries, this segment is also in need of self-introspection to be aware of the damage that they may be causing in their quest to make cheap products available.
Fortunately, there are a few brands within the segment that are reimagining the way the industry functions, becoming pioneers in ensuring sustainability and minimising the impact on the planet. The idea is to rethink sourcing, ingredients, formulations, packaging, and design. Here is an analysis of what sustainable beauty means and why it is the need of the hour.
Why does sustainable beauty matter?
The traditional beauty industry has long been criticised for its excessive use of plastic packaging, wasteful practices, and reliance on synthetic ingredients that can be harmful to the environment. By embracing sustainable practices, we can significantly reduce the environmental footprint of the beauty industry and promote a more sustainable future.
Moreover, sustainable beauty aligns with the growing consumer demand for transparency and ethical practices. Consumers are increasingly conscious of the impact their choices have on the planet and are seeking products that reflect their values. By choosing sustainable beauty products, individuals can make a positive difference and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Sustainable beauty practices
Responsible sourcing: Sustainable beauty begins at the roots—literally. Sourcing ingredients irresponsibly strips the environment of vital resources and entails a great human cost. Therefore, it is important to read where your favourite brand is getting its raw materials from. Now Imagine fair-trade practices that empower local farmers. These choices ripple through the ecosystem, leaving a legacy of respect and reciprocity. Some companies select sourcing partners based on strict criteria that ensure that they are strengthening the community and doing their bit for conservation. This makes sure they get quality ingredients without adding to the woes of nature.
Vegan formulations: Clean beauty isn’t a marketing buzzword; it’s a commitment to purity. What goes in your products goes on your skin and partly into the environment. Therefore, reading about the ingredients is a must while making a purchase. Products containing chemicals are cheaper and may even provide benefits temporarily, but they can ultimately wreak havoc on the environment. Moreover, brands that test their products on animals raise ethical concerns. The most responsible choice is to opt for vegan formulations that comply with ethical principles and humanitarian values.
Recyclable packaging: Enter eco-friendly packaging—the silent guardian of our planet. Companies are now focusing more on the use of recycled packaging material and further encouraging their customers to reuse, recycle, and reduce waste. This may be in the form of refilling stations or recycle bins placed conveniently at the store.
Multipurpose products: As customers, it is our responsibility to reduce the plastic waste that we generate. A very simple way to ensure this is by buying multi-use products. For example, products like lip and cheek stains serve multiple functions, allowing consumers to achieve different looks with just one product.
Another point: We might want to add a point around discussing the importance of brands aligning with communities and organisations that share similar values and goals, particularly those focused on sustainability. You may build in points from here
The personal care industry has long inflicted substantial damage on the environment through unsustainable practices. However, a growing movement of conscious consumers and responsible brands is paving the way for a radical shift towards sustainable beauty.
The path ahead is clear: brands must be held accountable for their sourcing, formulations, packaging, and overall environmental impact. By embracing responsible sourcing, vegan ingredients, recyclable packaging, and multi-use products, and supporting brands that follow these principles, we can collectively reduce the industry's carbon footprint and ecological burden.
Moreover, sustainable beauty extends beyond just environmental considerations. It is a holistic approach that prioritises ethical labour practices, cruelty-free principles, and community empowerment. By supporting brands that align with these values, we can pave the way for change that positively impacts the planet and people.
(Harmeet Singh, VP - Marketing, Digital & Product, The Body Shop Asia South)