The beauty industry is one of the many industries that has been under severe scrutiny from the public eye. After all, the industry has largely been built on unethical and unsustainable business practices. From harmful ingredients to poor manufacturing processes, its prominence has had major negative implications. Consequently, cosmetic and beauty companies around the world have been actively implementing eco-friendly practices. Though not every company is following suit, there is an extremely positive drive towards a greener beauty industry. In this article, we will outline a few of the ways that it is becoming greener than ever.
Sure, greener cosmetics are a safer means to softer skin. But, a great looking body won’t solve all your troubles. Eating healthy, performing regular exercise, and optimizing your family life all play a part in positive wellbeing. In saying so, it is wise to follow health-conscious advice. Read more at Mommy Authority about how you can improve your family’s lifestyle. This useful resource provides some insightful advice that will leave you feeling positively inspired.
By highlighting the green aspects of the beauty industry, we hope that you can start making wiser product purchases. Keep an eye out for brands that adhere to these eco-friendly practices:
1. No More Microbeads
While not all companies adhere to quality manufacturing processes, the banning of microbeads is federally enforced. The ban of microbeads came in 2015 as a result of the US Congress passing the Microbead-Free Waters Act of 2015. But, what are microbeads and what makes them so worrisome? Microbeads are tiny bits of plastic that were once found in the majority of exfoliating scrubs and washes. After being washed off from the skin, these pieces of plastic entered the waterways via the drain. Mistaken for food, they would be eaten by animals. Furthermore, they could contaminate food and water with harmful toxins. The implementation of such a beneficial act will ensure that no more microbeads feature in the beauty industry. This is a small step towards a greener industry but an essential one to say the least.
2. Cruelty-Free & Vegan-Friendly
Despite it being extremely unethical and the growing demand from the public to put an end to it, certain companies still test on animals. These companies are being brought to light through social media and the news. As a result, companies that do not test on animals are supporting the beneficial movement. More and more brands are highlighting their lack of animal testing during manufacturing. Furthermore, these companies are showcasing their omission of animal by-products in their formulas. Companies that have been exposed for their unethical behavior are actively enforcing changes to their production processes. While this does not excuse their actions, being exposed is enforcing rapid change within the beauty industry.
3. Sustainable, Organic Ingredients
Consumers are demanding sustainable, natural, and organic ingredients. While certain companies contain harmful substances in their formulas, there is an increasing number of organic products hitting stores across the country. This is giving rise to even more environmentally-sustainable products. This creates positive competition and the drive towards using organic ingredients is compounding at a rapid rate. The use of sustainable, natural ingredients minimizes potential side effects, promotes product efficacy, and prevents excessive harvesting of resources.
4. Recycled Packaging
Plastic is dreadful for the environment. The beauty industry is now, more than ever, working towards minimizing their plastic production. Consequently, companies are manufacturing packaging out of recycled plastic. Furthermore, they are encouraging consumers to recycle their products after use. This beneficial cycle should result in positive change among the industry as a whole, thus, promoting a greener world. Recycling can be tricky. You need to know which plastics can be recycled and which cannot. Use this resource to make it a little easier.
5. Ethical, Eco-Friendly Manufacturing
There are several important factors to consider before supporting a cosmetic company. The key things to look out for include FDA approval, cGMP certification, and compliance with the US Pharmacopeia standards of quality and purity. Brands that adhere to these guidelines showcase their devotion to ethical and eco-friendly manufacturing processes. Consequently, they are supporting a greener beauty industry. Also, their products are more likely to prove effective as a result.
There you have it, a few ways the beauty industry is greener than ever. Though these are not the only beneficial measures being implemented, they provide evidence that cosmetic brands are making positive strides. Next time you are searching for a product, be sure to grab one that adheres to these practices!
