From animal testing to plastic packaging, the beauty industry isn’t famed for being environmentally friendly. Today, however, that is all fast-changing. Brands such as The Body Shop and Lush have long trail blazed the way to environmentally friendly beauty products, but others are now taking note. And with the likes of last year’s Greta Thunberg phenomenon, there is no longer any excuse for us to not be more conscious of our impact on the planet.
With that said, how can you create a sustainable skincare regime, kind to your skin and the planet? It goes without saying that plastic packaging should be avoided at all costs. Opt for reusable, recyclable and biodegradable packaging wherever possible. Where packaging is a must, go for bigger bottles and buy less. Single-use items like cotton pads and cotton swabs are also replaceable with more environmentally friendly options. Biodegradable pads and reusable cotton swabs are now readily available online.
When it comes to the products themselves, make sure they are free of animal testing. Check out our earlier guide to cruelty-free products. As for the ingredients themselves, avoid non-sustainable items, harmful additives such as parabens, sodium laureth, plastic microbeads, phthalates, artificial colours and chemical preservatives.
With that in mind, check out our list of products for a sustainable skincare regime.
1. Feelunique Beauty Kitchen Abyssinian Oil Aroma Facial Concentrate
Vegan and 100% natural, use this intensely hydrating oil instead of Argan for a more sustainable option.
2. Tata Harper Restorative Eye Crème
Battle wrinkles with award-winning brand Tata Harper. Made from 100% natural products and 66% organic ingredients.
3. LUSH Cosmetic Warrior Face Mask
Ideal from problematic skin – this face mask does wonders. Animal and cruelty-free – take back five empty pots for a free face mask.
4. Burt’s Bees Night Cream
Fragrance-free, hypoallergenic and dermatologically tested. This is the ideal overnight moisturizing for sensitive skin.
5. HERBIVORE Bakuchiol Serum
This 100% natural and vegan formula made from the babchi plant is perfect for sensitive, dry skin and fine lines.
6. The Body Shop Tea Tree Skin Clearing Toner
Perfect for breakout-prone skin. Mattifying, cruelty-free and sustainable toner from The Body Shop.
7. Dr. Hauschka Soothing Cleansing Milk 145 ml
Dr. Hauschka Is known for its synthetic dyes, fragrances and preservative-free products. This restorative cleansing milk is perfect for make-up removal for those with sensitive skin.
8. Shirley Conlon Fountain of Youth Face Cream
Shirley Conlon is a local UAE brand made using organic ingredients. This day and night cream is suitable for all skin types.
9. SHIFFA BALANCING FACIAL TONER
Made by local businesswoman, Dr. Lamees Hamdan, Shiffa is an all-organic, natural skincare product.
10. Neal’s Yard Remedies Honey & Orange Facial Scrub
Made using organic products, Neal’s Yard Remedies has become a cult brand for those looking for natural products. This gorgeous, natural anti-septic face scrub exfoliates intensely leaving you with smooth skin.
11. Lesgos Reusable Makeup Remover Pads
Pack up 12 reusable and washable make-up pads.
