focus on the green beauty phenomenon

What does the concept of green beauty mean in cosmetics?

The green beauty concept comes straight from the United States. It translates into French as “green beauty”. This movement is inspired by clean beauty, which means “clean beauty”. While 20 years ago, natural and organic beauty was only a niche, today this trend is on the rise. Skin health and eco-responsibility are at the heart of consumer concerns.

There is not really an official definition of this green beauty movement, nor a label. More than a brand or a definition, green beauty is a generic term synonymous with transparency, both on the formulas of the products and on their packaging or their impact on the environment. Professionals in the cosmetics industry, like consumers, agree on the organic aspect, natural and eco-responsible of these beauty treatments.

Why favor “green” beauty products?

Nowadays, natural and organic products are on the front line. The perception of the world has evolved and consumption patterns as well. Users want to give meaning to their purchases. They care about their health and their skin.

A resurgence of sensitive and reactive skin

In France, the number of people with skin problems increases every year. Women seem more affected by this phenomenon. The use of unsuitable care, pollution, stress, an unhealthy lifestyle: various factors increase the risk of sensitive or reactive skin.

Sensitive or very sensitive skin requires quality products, free from controversial ingredients. Face cream, serum, oil, many brands are launching their “green” skincare range, based on formula transparency and respect for the environment.

Towards a more sustainable lifestyle

Green beauty treatments have a high concentration ofbiodegradable ingredients. Cosmetics professionals compete in imagination to meet the expectations and needs of consumers: solid care, upcyclingreduction of packaging, etc.

Zero waste consumption

In a world where resources are scarce, waste is prohibited. Recycling is no longer the only solution to reduce our impact on the environment. Zero waste consumption then takes on its full meaning. To put an end to plastic packaging and ocean pollution, turn to rechargeable products. You can also make your own cosmetic treatments at home.

What is the difference between an organic cosmetic treatment and a natural treatment?

In cosmetics, it is not always easy to differentiate a natural product from an organic product. Some brands play on packaging to give an illusion of nature and ecology. The reality is quite different. To help you, let’s zoom in on these beauty products.

natural products

A product is defined as natural when it contains minimum 95% ingredients from nature. They can be of mineral, plant or animal origin. Water, clay, honey, plants or fruits are elements commonly used in the manufacture of natural care.

This type of care is not not necessarily organic. Despite its composition of natural origin, you have no information on the origin of the components or on the manufacturing process. A cream may contain harmful ingredients, such as parabens, silicones or others endocrine disruptors harmful to your skin and your health.

Organic products

A care organic cosmetics also consists of at least 95% ingredients of natural origin. It must also contain at least 10% of active ingredients from organic farming. An organic treatment excludes any harmful chemical element. The most important certification in France is the COSMEBIO label. This label brings together more than 400 companies committed to an ethical and sustainable approach. The ISO 16128 standard also gives credibility to natural and organic products.

Beware of the trend greenwashing (eco-bleaching). This unscrupulous method used in marketing can mislead you. The technique consists of give a false ecological image to products that are not in reality. Greenwashing is commonly found on packaging (packaging), with the addition of green color or flowers to give an impression of naturalness.

What ingredients are banned from “green beauty” products?

Today’s consumers want to be informed of the composition of their beauty products. There are various resources to access this information, such as apps, which allow you to analyze the different formulas. The simplest method remains to check the composition directly on the packaging of the products by consulting the INCI list (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients).

INCI list: tips for deciphering the formulas

The INCI list means in French “international nomenclature of cosmetic ingredients”. It lists all the components used in the manufacture of products in contact with the human body. This list is mandatory since 1999 and must be visible on all packaging.

Understanding the INCI list on cosmetic packaging

The substances present in the formulas are listed in descending order. Unmodified natural components (plant extracts) are named in Latin. Chemically modified natural elements and synthetic components are written in English. The generic term “perfume” includes all scented substances.

Tips for Deciphering Ingredients on Packages

As you will have understood, the INCI list may seem difficult to understand. How to find it? Here are 3 tips to help you see more clearly in all these scientific terms.

1. Make a research on each ingredient. This work is essential, especially in case of allergy to one or more substances.
2. Download a mobile app. Just like for food, you just have to scan the barcodes of the products to check their compositions.
3. Write a list of harmful substances for health: silicones, aluminum salts, phthalates, etc. Beware of abbreviations such as BHA, BHT or PEG.

Herbal alternatives for sensitive skin

Herbal alternatives can substitute for the so-called harmful components. This is the case for example of bakukiol, from the seeds of the plant Psoralea corylifolia. The use of this natural active of face cream helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles and gives radiance to the skin. It works similarly to retinol by stimulating the production of collagen.

Retin-ALT (alternative to retinol) are not the only visible changes in cosmetics. Other natural elements, such as activated carbon or red algaeare found a lot in the composition of care for the face or body.

Green beauty: 5 tips for a “greener” beauty routine

You want to modify your beauty routine ? Discover our 5 tips for a “green beauty” routine.

1. Recycle your beauty product packaging.
2. Choose products from certified organic treatments.
3. Switch to solid cosmetics (soap, shampoo, face mask).
4. Opt for washable and reusable cotton pads.
5. Choose a range of solar products that do not pollute the oceans.

What are you waiting for to take action? Become an agent of change and join the green beauty movement. Every gesture counts to preserve the environment and your health.