How Skincare and Sustainability Intertwine
Skin care is one of the fastest growing industries in retail, and is projected to grow tremendously in the next decade. Environmental consciousness has encouraged sustainability in beauty and has become a major deal breaker for consumers today. As the climate crisis looms in the periphery, younger generations place greater value on environmental and social governance (ESG).
Currently, I work with the skincare and beauty brand, L’Occitane en Provence. As a beauty advisor, I am all too familiar with the growing demands for quality and ethically sourced products. Now more than ever products and the companies selling them must follow through with their commitments. B-Corp certifications, recycling programs, and fair trade certificates are all examples of how retailers can prove their devotion to a cleaner future. Many beauty brands are now prioritizing ethically harvested and renewable resources.
This includes using ingredients that are not only good for the skin but are also cultivated in a manner that minimizes environmental impact and supports local communities. I am proud to say I work for a company that integrates all of these climate initiatives. An example of this is found through L’Occitane’s recycling program that offers a discount for bringing in empty bottles from ANY brand.
One of the major contributors to environmental pollution is excessive and non-recyclable packaging. In response, many beauty brands are adopting eco-friendly packaging solutions, such as recyclable materials, minimalistic packaging, and the use of biodegradable alternatives. Some brands are even introducing innovative packaging designs, like refillable containers, to reduce overall waste.
Educating consumers about the environmental and social impact of beauty products is crucial. Many brands are becoming more transparent about their sourcing, production, and overall sustainability efforts. This transparency helps consumers make informed choices and encourages companies to continuously improve their practices. What’s your current skincare routine?
After reading “The changing story of sustainability” in the Nielsen IQ Report, this helps clarify what sustainability in the personal care product industry really looks like and key trends that have helped brands promote their ESG. Check out the article: https://nielseniq.com/global/en/insights/education/2023/sustainable-beauty-2023/