Sustainable products are here to stay. But the cosmetics industry continues to churn out beauty brands with no regard for sustainable beauty.

So, what are the ingredients that go into making a sustainable cosmetics line? Keep reading to find out.

See Related: 13 Tips On How To Live A More Sustainable Life

Key Takeaways

• Sustainable products and brands focus on their environmental impact
• They center biodegradability in their cosmetic packaging practices
• They use only natural and organic ingredients
• They are transparent with their consumers
• Their supply chain is ethically and sustainably managed
• They invest in raw materials through sustainable sourcing
• They commit their cosmetic brands to social responsibility clauses
• They engage in Fair Trade practices
• They set an example for others in the cosmetic industry to limit their environmental impact

Sustainable practices in the cosmetics industry

There are many ways for cosmetic products in the beauty industry to practice sustainability. So what should you be looking for in environmentally friendly cosmetic products?

#1. Biodegradability

Many in the beauty industry are turning to biodegradability as a source of inspiration - and we're no exception. At PAPR, our deodorant tubes are 100% zero waste and biodegradable.

This way, you get the raw materials and natural oils you need from our deodorants. But the packaging won't last long enough for future generations to come.

Using biodegradable natural ingredients like shea butter is another effective way for beauty products to practice sustainable development. Ingredients like coconut oil over palm oil (which has a host of ecological issues attached to it) also demonstrate cosmetic companies' care throughout the manufacturing process.

#2. Alternatives to plastic packaging

By now, waste management is simply a part of our everyday lives. In not wanting to further contribute to plastic pollution, cosmetic manufacturers are turning to not only natural cosmetics; but natural cosmetics housed in plastic-free packaging.

Our plastic-free deodorants are the perfect example. Without sacrificing product quality, we simply house our natural deodorant formulas in a more sustainable fashion.

#3. Natural ingredients over synthetic ingredients

Natural ingredients and organic ingredients in beauty products not only care for the health and safety of consumers. But such practices also care for the human health of manufacturers and laborers within the personal care industry.

Look for products on the cosmetics market that are free of BHA, BHT, coal tar dyes, aluminum, and DBP. All of these ingredients come with their own ecological issues, much like palm oil, and can be as equally harmful to those handling such products during the production process.

Sustainability is not just about the planet. It's about humans too!

#4. Greater transparency with consumers

A pinnacle of the Green Cosmetics Movement is the call for greater transparency. When brands are transparent with their consumers, they create greater depth to their brand reputation.

They take on a corporate responsibility that sets them apart from other beauty products. As conscious consumers, it's important to know everything about what goes into the making of green cosmetics.

#5. A green and sustainable production chain

Sustainability initiatives must also be implemented in a brand's supply chain. Every production level should be cognizant of its impact on the environment.

Systemizing this holistic approach only furthers a skin care line's authority on sustainability.

#6. Sustainable and ethical sourcing

Remember how we referenced the trouble with palm oil? This all has to do with ethical sourcing.

The large-scale conversions of tropical forests to palm oil plantations have had a devastating impact on a number of agricultural plants, animals, and species. On the other hand, bio-based oleochemicals are a great example of a more sustainable option as they are derived from renewable plant and bacteria sources.

These small changes in how ingredients are sourced for organic products make a huge difference in the environment. That's why it's so important that cosmetics brands create products with sustainability at the forefront of their minds.

Bonus: How Exactly Does Natural Deodorant Work?

#7. Respect for natural resources

Depleting natural resources is an unfortunately common practice when creating skincare products. But consumers are starting to notice which cosmetics are committed to sustainability and which aren't.

Studies have shown a dramatic shift in consumers. With a greater understanding of the cosmetics industry's environmental impact, consumers are now favoring sustainability in products.

This call for greater corporate social responsibility is the perfect wake-up call for other beauty brands to get on the sustainability bandwagon. And as a sustainable cosmetic brand ourselves, we're happy to see so many other companies join in!

#8. Elimination of packaging waste and single-use plastics

Not all cosmetics companies are turning to biodegradable packaging. But they're putting their packaging to good use.

Companies like Schmidt's have recently traded in their plastic packaging for glass deodorant jars. After emptying their jar, consumers can send them back to be reused for the next round of production.

Simple switches like these make sustainability feel a whole lot more manageable. And with every 5 empties, a consumer can get 1 deodorant free!

#9. Environmental protection clauses

It's one thing for a brand to say they're committed to sustainability. It's another for them to put sustainability practices in action - and in writing. Creating sustainability clauses as a part of their brand helps them remain accountable on behalf of their eco-friendly commitments.

#10. Fair Trade practices

Fair Trade practices entail a commitment to decent working conditions and fair deals for farmers and workers within developing countries. Once again, sustainable practices have as much to do with the Earth as they do with humans.

#11. Sustainability goals

Lastly, look for a brand's sustainability goals. Like sustainability clauses, these goals demonstrate a brand's commitment to altering its practices to make for a more sustainable production line.

Final thoughts

There's no singular way to be sustainable. But these are some of the natural ingredients that make up a sustainable cosmetics line. 

Keep Reading: What Really Happens When You Switch To Aluminum-Free Deodorant?

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PAPR Cosmetics is on a mission to create conscious beauty products with as little impact on the planet as possible. Our products are fully recyclable, vegan, and cruelty-free. When we take down one tree, we plant a new one. For more information and sustainability tips, follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, LinkedIn, TikTok, YouTube, and Tumblr.