Sustainable cosmetics are becoming increasingly important, especially in the changing world we live in today. When large, usually mainstream, cosmetic brands repeatedly report large carbon outputs and are found in bits-and-pieces in the world’s oceans, this transforms cosmetics into a problem that needs to be solved. Further, many petrochemicals, formaldehyde, paragens, homosalate, and more that are found in “conventional” cosmetics are considered toxic or pollutant ingredients that are not only bad for the planet but also to the person who is using the product. For example, formaldehyde is a known carcinogen but is still used in some products to prevent the growth of mold or other microbiological organisms as well as to prevent spoilage in short terms. 

 

Sustainable cosmetics are products that are made with natural and/or renewable resources such as coconut oil or palm oil, and have less of a detrimental impact on the environment. However, sustainable cosmetics also refer to cosmetic products that have been packaged in a sustainable fashion, such as incorporating reusable cases for cushion foundations or including a re-fillable case instead of forcing the consumer to buy another plastic bottle of the product every time they run out. This is especially important as single-use plastics and conventional packaging contribute to the 120 billion units of packaging waste produced by the beauty industry annually. 

 

On a more personal level, I have found that switching products in my daily cosmetic routine not only benefits my skin but aligns more with my values. As a Korean student, I have always been a consumer of Korean beauty products, and I have found brands that have been becoming increasingly sustainable. “Going green” does not mean sacrificing style, but rather, gives us an opportunity to explore better and innovative products.