Sustainable Beauty Solutions: Why They Are So Important

beauty, cosmetics -

Sustainable Beauty Solutions: Why They Are So Important

When we think of doing our bit to help environment conservation, the first thing that perhaps to our mind is shunning plastic use. And rightly so. However, another sector deeply entrenched in our lives that plays an essential role here  is the beauty industry. Some of the reasons that make it so significant are packaging, unsustainable resource consumption, animal cruelty and child labor.

The Indian cosmetic industry is estimated to grow annually by 25 percent, touching $20 billion by 2025. That makes it all the more important for beauty brands to try to minimize their impact on the Earth. And as a vigilant consumer, you can send the right signs too. Here is how: 

Recycled Packaging

From colour and shadow palettes; bottles and containers for lotions, serums, shampoos, and conditioners; tubes for products like mascara, liquid eyeliners, and lip-gloss, to packaging materials, beauty products contain plastic galore . Waste is also generated from single-use application materialssuch as those given out as samples or promotion for beauticians, cosmetologists, estheticians, and others who have chosen a career in cosmetics.

The way forward is plastic-free packaging or biodegradable solutions. Companies can ensure that any plastics used in packaging are recyclable, or they can provide return-and-refill options. Glass or metal cases are the safer options, of course. 

Ethical and Eco-Friendly Resource Consumption

Natural beauty products aren't always better than chemical-based products if the raw material supply chain is unsustainable. Palm oil is a popular ingredient in beauty products because of its positive impact on both the body and the environment. However, its enormous demand has resulted in unsustainable large-scale cultivation, and encroachmenton forests. When not responsibly farmed, other oil sources such as soy, rapeseed, and coconut perform no better than palm oil. It becomes important thus to see that the entire chain is clean and green, and not just the end product. 

Don't Stop Educating Yourself

Beware of 'Greenwashing' tricks. Check the list of ingredients and go beyond the big label.