Sustainable Skincare, Sustainable Planet

Skin care in the fall season - basic-naturals
Skin Repair for Eczema and More!
A Sustainable Skincare Product from Skinimalist Company @Basic_Naturals

Sustainable Skincare, Sustainable Planet

How can we clean up this mess?

In recent years, consumer choices have made a huge impact on the environment- the evidence of this negative impact has been growing with plastic waste collecting in islands in oceans and microplastics turning up in food and water. Incredibly, statistics show that the average American household contains 300,000 items. (How Much Stuff Is In the Average American Home?). One way we can make a significant impact is by making educated choices about the products we purchase. While Minimalism is not for everyone, maybe a reminder to practice good judgement at each purchase can be a helpful tool for consuming less waste while saving money and space!

When you change your personal care over to sustainable eco-friendly brands you are not only supporting brands that are better for the planet, they are most often better for your skin too. In this article, we will explore the benefits of purchasing from sustainable skincare brands, and provide some tips for finding the best eco-friendly products for your skincare routine.

Plastic Waste Engulfs a Path
A Reminder of the Importance of Purchasing Responsibly

Why Should I Purchase Sustainably? Why does it matter what products I buy?

You may be asking yourself, why me? How much change can I generate as one person or household? Surprisingly, or not, the beauty industry has a significant impact on the environment. They may come in small containers and be purchased only once a month, but the amount of waste that personal care products carry with them is impactful.

The production of cosmetics and personal care products requires large amounts of water, energy, and raw materials, and generates waste and pollution throughout the supply chain. Many cosmetic ingredients, including microplastics, can harm marine life and ecosystems when they enter waterways.

Packaging waste is also a significant issue, with millions of tons of plastic and other materials ending up in landfills or oceans each year. Additionally, the transportation and distribution of these products contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and other environmental impacts. Overall, the beauty industry has a responsibility to prioritize sustainability and reduce its environmental footprint.

Consequently, if we as consumers continue to purchase from brands that do not prioritize this mission to clean up and preserve our planet, the companies that maintain wasteful practices will continue to thrive and cause environmental damage to our home. With each purchase that shifts the market towards sustainable brands, we can generate change together. Sustainable Skincare, Sustainable Planet.

Sales of Sustainable Products in the U.S. Increased Between 2014 and 2021F

Why Should I Choose Sustainable Skincare Products?

There are a few key reasons why choosing sustainable skincare products is beneficial:

  1. Reducing your environmental footprint: Many traditional skincare products contain harmful chemicals and contribute to pollution when they are produced and disposed of. Sustainable brands have best practices that require them to act responsibly with regards to production, disposal, labor and water usage. By choosing eco-friendly products, we can each reduce our impact on the environment and help preserve natural resources.
  2. Better for your skin: “Naturally”, sustainable skincare products are often made with natural ingredients that are gentler on the skin. Correspondingly, formulas that protect the skin barrier tend to be more healthy overall. Systemically and environmentally improving health. Many people find that these products can be more effective in improving skin health and reducing the risk of irritation or allergic reactions.
  3. Support for ethical companies: Many sustainable skincare brands are committed to ethical and socially responsible practices. By supporting brands like these you can help promote positive change and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Tips for Finding the Best Eco-Friendly Skincare Products

If you’re interested in purchasing sustainable skincare products, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

  1. Look for natural ingredients: One of the key benefits of eco-friendly skincare products is that they often use natural, plant-based ingredients. Products that use ingredients like aloe vera, mango or shea butter, olive oil and coconut oil, are gentle and nourishing for the skin. (Basic Naturals uses only all-natural ingredients and minimally processing!)
  2. Check for eco-friendly packaging: Another important aspect of sustainability is packaging. Look for products that come in recyclable or biodegradable packaging, or that use minimal packaging to reduce waste. (BN uses minimal packaging to reduce waste, recycled packing materials and boxes for shipments, e-bike deliveries for locals, and recyclable packaging!)
  3. Research the company’s sustainability practices: Before purchasing from a particular brand, take some time to research their sustainability practices. Look for companies that prioritize ethical sourcing, use renewable energy, and have a commitment to reducing waste and carbon emissions.
  4. Consider the product’s lifecycle: When choosing skincare products, consider their entire lifecycle – from production to disposal. Look for products that are made with minimal environmental impact, and that can be safely and easily disposed of when you’re finished using them.

A Challenge for You!

#SustainableSkincareSustainablePlanet

We dare you! This month try to change over at least 2 of the products you currently use in your household to a more sustainable version. Additionally, when you purchase from sustainable, eco-friendly skincare brands it is a great way to reduce your environmental footprint. Let’s call this challenges #SustainableSkincareSustainablePlanet. Eventually, let’s work towards total conversion to sustainabile homes bit by bit. Sustainable living is a lifestyle that starts with small changes one thing at a time. Or two!

By following these tips, you can find high-quality products that are both effective and gentle on your skin, while also contributing to a more sustainable future and a healthier home for all. So, let’s go!