5 Ways To Stay Eco-Conscious With Beauty Products In Summer
The summer can see a step-up in our use of beauty products, as we seek to protect our skin from the sun while getting that healthy bronzed glow. There’s also plenty of social occasions when we want our skin and hair to look its very best, such as holidays, festivals, barbecues and weddings, or even just hanging out at the beach.
The increased use of products can generate a lot of waste in non-recyclable packaging, and contributes to the amount of toxic chemicals deposited in the environment. However, it is possible to enjoy a glowing summer beauty routine without compromising your values. Here are five ways that you can stay eco-conscious and still look and feel amazing.
Choose products with plastic-free or recyclable packaging
The beauty industry produces billions of units of waste packaging each year, and much of this is non-recyclable and non-biodegradable. This contributes to landfill, or even ends up being shipped to developing countries, where accountability is low and it could be burned and release toxic fumes, or dumped in the ocean.
To avoid adding to this environmental footprint with your beauty routine, look for brands that are committed to using 100 per cent recyclable packaging, or use biodegradable materials or refillable jars and tins.
Be vigilant for microplastics and hidden toxins
Many conventional beauty products are designed to keep manufacturing costs to a minimum and shelf-life to a maximum, and this usually means heavy use of chemicals, synthetic ingredients and microplastics.
These substances get washed into the waterways, harming marine life and coral reefs. There is also evidence that microplastics and other toxins get filtered back into the human food chain, and the consequences of this are only just beginning to emerge. You can make a difference with your consumer choices, as every small decision adds up to a greater good.
Look for organic body products that contain 100 per cent natural ingredients that will biodegrade safely in the environment and not cause any problems for wildlife and plant life. For example, switch exfoliants that contain plastic microbeads for products made with natural clays, oatmeal, or ground seeds.
Avoid products that contain parabens, sulfates, and artificial fragrances and colouring. Instead, go for natural plant extracts such as aloe vera and argan oil. This is not only better for the environment, but also kinder for your skin and hair.
Use multi-purpose products
Multi-tasking products are heroes when it comes to packing for your holiday, saving you luggage weight and space in your suitcase. It’s also another way to reduce the cycle of consumption and waste.
For example, butters and oils that contain gentle but effective ingredients such as shea butter and coconut oil can be used to soothe insect bites and irritated skin, hydrate dry flaky skin, and also double up as a hair mask and lip balm. Some face creams and foundations also contain SPF that is good enough if you are outdoors for an hour or two.
Support small local businesses
Look for local businesses that have a transparent ethical policy for sourcing their product ingredients and are clear about their production methods. Smaller businesses have less environmental impact than multi-nationals with huge distribution networks.
By buying from local suppliers, you will minimise your ecological footprint and also support the local economy. It’s also more likely that the products will have fresh and thoughtfully chosen ingredients that live up to your expectations or even exceed them, and will not irritate your skin or cause bad hair days.
Make it cruelty-free and vegan
Testing cosmetics on animals causes unnecessary suffering, and using animal-derived products such as beeswax and lanolin increases the environmental impact. Look for certified cruelty-free and vegan brands to ensure your summer beauty routine aligns with your ethical values.
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