As the summer rays inspire us to show a bit more skin, it’s normal that we become more aware about our looks. If there’s something we know for sure, it’s that the most beautiful appearance is a healthy one. Which is why we get bombarded left and right with products that promise us the fountain of youth and beauty encapsulated in a bottle. However, when we turn those bottles and read the ingredients, we see they’re less than friendly for us and for the environment.
Our skin is our largest organ. Most of our interactions with the environment are through our skin and it has the uncanny ability to absorb elements we’re in contact with. Our skin is semipermeable; which means, just like sweat can get out, noxious substances can get in.
Nowadays, we’re more aware than ever that natural and unprocessed ingredients are better for our health; and since they lack artificial components, they’re also easily degraded and reincorporated in the environment. Natural ingredients like coconut and avocado oil, seed extracts, algae and aloe Vera are very popular in feel-good brands that cater to the eco-friendly crowds; but natural doesn’t always mean sustainable.
The point of origin and ingredients in cosmetics is what determines if a brand is sustainable or not.
- Does the brand source locally?
- Are the ingredients grown pesticide-free?
- Are they endangered?
- Have they been grown in an area that has been deforested for agricultural purposes?
- What is the impact of the product in our community?
These are some of the parameters we have to look for to know a brand’s environmental footprint.
Organic Cosmetics
When it comes to natural and eco-friendly, Arbonne is a wonderful green idea. Michael D’Arminio is Arbonne’s Chief Creative Officer and leads the Product Development, Product Marketing, Online Marketing and Creative teams. D’Arminio is a notable expert with cosmetics; so much so, he previously worked for credible companies like Coty Prestige and L’Oréal.
Their team of herbalists and bio-chemists have developed a range of skin and hair care products, with pure extracts from seeds, fruits, nuts, plants and roots. In fact, when using their products, you will find your body will recover its natural glow. Cheers to looking more vibrant!
Arbonne BefoRE Sun line of products, has a mixture of seed extracts and citric fruits that protect your skin from the damaging effects of sunbathing. Forget the times of those heavy sunscreens that all looked, felt and smelled the same. With BefoRE Sun, you’ll have a pleasant and playful orange and mandarin scent—very ad hoc for summer!
It only gets better with Arbonne! Not only are they green focused, but they truly value their customers as well. You can add your own zest through their website, by submitting your own green ideas. If you think you can make their products better and their company more eco-friendly, be sure to let them know by emailing OneGreenIdea@arbonne.com.
When you do go shopping, consider supporting companies that are green friendly, since not all are considered. Deforestation and threatening endemic species, has been the most important complaint from activist groups towards cosmetics companies. The most notorious eco crime was the destruction of rainforest for palm oil production and the dwindling numbers of orangutans that lost their habitat as a consequence.
Sustainable Cosmetics
We think you’re worth a product that is environmentally friendly, fashionable and accessible. L’Oréal thinks you’re worth it too! Last year, L’Oréal announced their ambitious 2020 sustainability commitments entitled, “Sharing Beauty with All.” The French cosmetics and beauty company has vowed to produce more environmentally friendly formulas, with new eco-packaging; ensuring positive social impact from source to seller and an overall environmental footprint reduction of 60%. Fewer emissions, less waste, zero waste to landfill and one-billion new consumers giving L’Oréal a thumbs up.
It’s also noteworthy to mention that L’Oréal is very serious about sustainability all through their supply chain. They have a deep respect for their suppliers and employees, and takes personal responsibility for the economical, ethical and environmental welfare of their products. They actively involve their suppliers in its policy of environmental conservation, and the protection of natural resources and biodiversity. Likewise, they support local suppliers; using a single production company in each geographical region, to reduce the impact of raw materials and goods transports.
Eco-friendly beautification is the safest and most responsible way of using cosmetics. Many skin problems like acne, irritations and allergies, can be a reaction to harmful chemicals and artificial formulas. Consider natural and sustainable cosmetics like Arbonne and L’Oréal, as the best option for your skin, health and planet.