Top 5 Eco-Friendly Makeup Shops/Companies To Switch To
- Brittany Westveer
- Aug 3, 2020
- 3 min read
The makeup industry isn't as glamorous as it seems. It's a pretty powerful statement to start off a blog post with but an important one. Not only does the makeup industry have a high impact on the environment through its over 120 billion units of mostly plastic packaging sold every year, cheap, conventional makeup can contain parabens and toxins hidden in its ingredients.
I'd like to preface this with I am a person who doesn't wear much makeup. Back in school, especially the scary years of middle school, my eyeliner was thick, mascara caked and I didn't bother to care where it came from, much less the ingredients it contained. Over the years, my thick use of makeup dwindled. I started using higher quality makeup (still not the best for the environment) until the pandemic hit where I was able to give my face a much needed 3-4 month breather from wearing any cosmetics at all. Now that work is returning, it's time to make the ultimate switch - eco-friendly and sustainable makeup for everyday use. This is a question that I've gotten pretty often on my Instagram and thought it would be best to share my findings with you all in case you're looking to make the swap in your life. Here are my top five findings with some honorable mentions of other skincare products below!
Disclaimer: I have not been paid or given free products to promote any of these companies or businesses. This is solely from my own findings as well as suggestions given by Instagram polls which is how I curated this article.
Elate Cosmetics - Elate is dedicated to empowering all to use the best possible products for your daily rituals by using 5 conscious beauty principles: Impact, Ethics, Community, Future and Mission. From social and environmental impacts to providing an excellent office culture, this company strives for the highest quality of life at every turn. Their products range from eyes, face and lips to tools and kits which is perfect for makeup users of all levels.
RMS - RMS Beauty has been on a mission to change the beauty industry for well over 11 years. Unlike some of their competitors that can found in the same store, RMS provides incredibly transparent ingredients that are certified organic, non-gmo, soy free, gluten free and cruelty free. Their beauty cream products are eco-conscious and housed in recycled glass pots. All boxes are made from 80% post-consumer recycled fiber and manufactured using 100% wind power. This company is one of the easier ones to find at beauty stores near you and offers a huge selection of beauty products ranging from face + cheek, lips + eyes, skin beauty, brushes and sets.
Kjaer Weis - Kirsten Kjaer Weis is an esteemed makeup artist who has worked around the world for some of the most renowned fashion magazines such as Vogue, Elle and Marie Claire. While working in this industry, she noticed that some of the models have irritating reactions to synthetic makeup, thus creating her own organic line Kjaer Weis. Not only are all of the ingredients Certified Natural or Certified Organic, but that they always reach a standard of luxury beauty. The company also has what they call a Red Edition to their makeup line, offering 100% recyclable, compostable and refillable basis for every day products.
Bésame Cosmetics - This is a makeup company that is perfect for cosmetic enthusiasts looking for products and bright colors similar to those back in the 1900s. Started by a cosmetics historian, these products are 100% cruelty free and created especially for those with sensitive skin. This is a woman owned company, locally produced in California with lips, eyes and face products that are great for long-wear and minimal waste.
Clean Faced Cosmetics - For those looking for a small business to support, check out Clean Faced Cosmetics based in Grand Rapids, MI. Owner Laura has a vast amount of zero waste products for sale on her Etsy store ranging from Zero Waste Cake Mascara, Vegan Powder Foundation and so much more. She is a top shop on Etsy with 5 star reviews across the board.
Honorable skincare mentions - Not that I don't think these deserve the top slots, I based my suggestions on complete makeup rather than makeup and skincare. All these suggestions below are great skincare based companies for those looking for face washes, sunscreen, deodorant, lotions and more.
Zao Organic Makeup (This was recommended to me several times on my poll but I also had heard negative reviews of this company. Use at your own risk)
Photo by Diana Ruseva on Unsplash
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