Clean makeup is invited into our kit for our greatest good and that of Mother Nature. And is about to revolutionize the entire cosmetic industry.   At first glance, the displays in the Sephora department store in downtown Montreal are very similar. From lipstick to foundation: there is all the arsenal necessary for the makeup bag.   But as you wander the islands, you will notice that green tablets bearing the words "Pure and healthy" are affixed to certain displays. Who is entitled to this distinction? The ranges free from harmful and ecologically responsible ingredients. Launched in 2018, the stamp now brings together around sixty brands.   An offer impossible to imagine barely 10 years ago, when beautists looking for clean makeup had very little to get on their skin. What happened? Sephora listened to its customers. "We have noticed a change in the concerns of consumers, who are increasingly looking for quality cosmetics with no suspicious substances," said Jane Nugent, vice president of merchandising at Sephora Canada.   In the target market there are millennials and generation Z, demanding customers looking for transparency and who read the labels carefully. "Companies even go so far as to modify some of their formulas to meet our selection criteria," says Jane Nugent.   Sephora is not the only business responding to this trend. The American retailer The Detox Market, created in 2010, has slowly established itself as the leader in healthy beauty. “When we started talking about clean makeup, it made everyone laugh. People associated green beauty with the hippie movement, ”says Romain Gaillard, founder of the chain, which has three branches in Toronto. Each product found on their site or in store must go through a rigorous evaluation process. "More than 1,000 companies contact us each year to be sold here ... It is essential to choose what we really like," he says. Sea Surfer Curl Volumizing Mascara, Tart , $ 30  

What is clean makeup?

  In the absence of established regulations, the definition of clean makeup varies from brand to brand and remains open to interpretation. In principle, any component suspected of being carcinogenic, endocrine disruptor, neurotoxic or allergenic should not be present in the formula. In addition, the packaging, boxes and flasks must be biodegradable, with a low carbon footprint.   What client wants ...   This awareness has been brewing for a long time according to WGSN, the renowned London trend office whose expertise consists in anticipating the major consumer trends of tomorrow. "Several years ago, we predicted that ethical responsibility would become a non-negotiable criterion for buyers," said Jenni Middleton, WGSN beauty director.   Since then, the growth of this phenomenon has been observed in the food, fashion and, now, beauty industry. To such an extent that, according to a report published on the company's website, "cosmetic companies that neglect their environmental impact risk losing consumer confidence". The polling firm Nielsen has also revealed that internationally 73% of consumers were ready to change their purchasing habits to reduce their environmental footprint and that 38% preferred to buy ethical cosmetics.   This enthusiasm does not go unnoticed by opportunistic banners who see it as a golden marketing opportunity: being seen as eco-responsible is a sales strategy rather than a real value, which gives rise to the famous greenwashing). “Some brands distribute misleading information to give the impression of being green in order to arouse the interest of customers. This can result in misleading statements about the list of ingredients, the packaging (less environmentally friendly than it seems) or even the production chain (falsely carbon neutral) ", argues Jenni Middleton. Fortunately, the expert notes that the consumer is increasingly demanding to see evidence of these claims. And when the client wants something, everyone answers the call. Hence the “Pure and healthy” seal offered by Sephora.  

Precursors of yesterday, leaders of today

  These pioneering brands of clean makeup have paved the way towards a more responsible cosmetic industry.   Dr. Hauschka   Founded in 1957, the German company launched its make-up range in 1999 as a complement to the skin products it already offered. “We use the same raw materials as in our care. Infused with extracts of medicinal plants and certified organic vegetable oils, our make-up aims to sublimate women's beauty and not to mask it, ”specifies Marie Calas, head of research and development. Eye and brow palette, Pierre shade, Dr. Hauschka , $ 65   Bite   "When we heard that a woman would ingest 3.17 kg of lipstick during her life, that made us think," reveals Sylvie Rouaix, vice president of product development at Bite. Originally from Toronto, the company has become a cult in the world of lipsticks. "We wanted to prove that makeup could be both safe and effective," she adds. In addition to being now 100% vegan, the Bite brand is launching foundations this year, pressed powders and foundation perfecting foundations. Changemaker modular coverage pressed powder, Medium 2 shade, Bite Beauty , $ 48 for 7.5 g. Sublimating micellar foundation, shade L20, Bite Beauty , $ 52 for 30 ml.   Ilia   It is by peeling the ingredients listed on the boxes of her cosmetics that the Vancouver resident Sasha Plavsic wanted to create her own brand. What she did in 2011. “I loved a tinted lip balm. My first challenge was to reproduce it in a non-toxic version, ”says the entrepreneur. Nine years later, its illuminators, eyebrow gels and multipurpose sticks are sold like hot cakes. One of the secrets of its success? The formulas are enriched with beneficial ingredients, such as hibiscus extract or rosehip oil.   Green vs black   The European Union prohibits the use of more than 1,300 ingredients in cosmetics sold on its territory. In Canada, only 600 components are banned - which is still better than in the United States, where there are only about thirty. But why is there such a big difference between us and our cousins from across the Atlantic? According to Health Canada, this is notably due to the fact that the European Union studies substances individually, whereas here, they are grouped rather by family (for example, aniline dyes).   As for controversial substances such as parabens, phthalates and others, which are still permitted despite the concerns they raise, Health Canada claims to be watching them. The ministry follows “international scientific and regulatory reports closely, and regularly reviews the safety of chemicals in cosmetics in the form of risk assessments.”   The problem is simultaneous exposure to these ingredients, says Lise Parent, ecotoxicologist and professor at TÉLUQ University. In other words, a mascara used alone may not be a threat to health, but added, every day, to the foundation, lipstick and eyeshadow ... "We have no idea of their long-term effect, says the expert. However, we do know that phthalates have direct consequences for the rat's reproductive system and thyroid.”   Even if the human body is a wonderful machine for filtering out harmful substances, Lise Parent reminds us that it is not without its shortcomings, particularly in the case of endocrine disruptors. "They tend to accumulate in the body and, since they are similar to the hormones produced by it, our body is not always able to detect them and set in motion the process necessary to get rid of it, ”she explains.  

Green container

  According to the Zero Waste Week website, 120 billion packages of cosmetics are produced each year ... and most of them are not recyclable. A dizzying number to which several brands are responding with green initiatives. "At Maison Jacynthe, all the boxes are made of wood and aluminum, in addition to being reusable thanks to refills of eyeshadows," argues Marco Marsolais, make-up artist for the stars and co-creator of the range of cosmetics offered by the company. . For its part, Burt's Bees collaborates with TerraCycle, a company specializing in the management of non-recyclable waste, to ensure the recovery of its small pots. Reusable case , $ 19. Terracotta , Mattina shade, and blush , In Love shade, Maison Jacynthe, $ 32 and $ 29.50   Where do the color pigments come from?   Most manufacturers of clean makeup - like Dr. Hauschka and Burt's Bees - opt for pigments of mineral origin, often identified on the packaging as iron oxides. At Maison Jacynthe, certain shades come from plant sources, such as the turmeric present in eyeshadows.   The red color, on the other hand, is more controversial. Brands choose carmine, a natural dye used for centuries and derived from crushed mealybugs (insects living on cacti). Vegan ranges will prefer to introduce some synthetic pigments.   As for the iridescent effect of certain illuminators and lip glosses, we owe it to an ore, mica. However, it is its extraction that is controversial. Many miners do in fact work with children, their small size being advantageous for digging wells and tunnels in deposits. Fortunately, ethical players make it a point of honor to source from responsible sources.  

Apps using

  How to take a closer look at the composition of products without carrying around a chemistry manual? Applications have been designed to scan the barcodes and the INCI list (the nomenclature of components) written on the packaging. Skin Deep   Works with ratings from 0 to 10 (10 being the level most harmful to health). Clean Beauty   We photograph the list of ingredients, then the application extracts the controversial components in seconds. Glossary of 800 ingredients. Think Dirty   Canadian application which evaluates, after reading the barcode, the ingredients according to ratings (from 0 to 10) combined with a color system. A substance rated 10 and highlighted in red = danger!   Performance at the rendezvous   Clean makeup has long suffered from a lack of hold. The eyeshadows spun in the folds of the eyelids, the mascara had to be reapplied several times a day, the textures were not in focus… Today, the cosmetic giants have corrected these weaknesses. Makeup artist Alexandre Deslauriers, who acted as a consultant for the makeup component at Burt's Bees, believes that we must still moderate our expectations. "It's not normal for a lipstick to last for 16 hours!" he exclaims.   An infallible outfit often betrays the presence of silicone. To maintain color on the lips, Burt's Bees has replaced plastic particles with mixtures of vegetable oils and waxes. In its tinted cream formula, it is squalane, a plant component extracted from olive oil, which solves the problem of spreading and adhesion to the skin. Bite, a brand recognized for its ultra-pigmented lipsticks, has traded dimethicone (silicone) for orange peel wax accompanied by agave nectar, both rich in antioxidants. Matt stick, Rippling Rose shade, Burt's Bees , $ 9.99   Maison Jacynthe Complexion Fluid is the favorite product of make-up artist Marco Marsolais. Its formula is enriched with borage oil, which gives it a malleable texture and hydrating power. "By applying it repeatedly on my clients' faces, I saw their skin change," he says. Green ingredients are also used in place of BHA and BHT (synthetic antioxidants) or formaldehyde (antimicrobial preservative) to preserve the products and avoid rancidity of fatty substances. To do this, Maison Jacynthe had previously used coffee extract, but will soon opt for Labrador tea to promote the natural riches of Quebec.

Hair care brand Living Proof has linked up with TerraCycle on two new packaging recycling initiatives.   The programmes will apply to all of the Unilever-owned brand’s packaging, including its aerosol products.   “We are pleased to count Living Proof among a select group of luxury hair care brands that offer consumer-facing recycling programmes that actively address this large category of waste,” said TerraCycle’s CEO and founder Tom Szaky.   “Through the introduction of these innovative recycling programmes, Living Proof is giving their consumers a powerful, sustainable option to divert their empty hair care and aerosol packaging from landfills, as well as demonstrate their respect for the environment through the products they choose to include in their hair care regime.”   The brand is also giving customers an incentive to participate by giving points for every shipment, which can be used for charitable gifts or converted into cash and donated to non-profit organisations.   Living Proof’s Marketing Director Sarah Mountcastle Mitchell said she was proud to partner with TerraCycle.   She added: “Living Proof is committed to solving the toughest beauty challenges with safe, cruelty-free innovations that don’t compromise our planet, and partnering with TerraCycle has helped us further develop this commitment.”   Szaky’s firm has partnership deals with several global beauty brands including Burt’s Bees, Colgate, Deciem and Herbal Essences.   Participants wishing to recycle their empty Living Proof packaging can sign up to the programme via terracycle.com/living-proof.

Supergoop *finally* launched in Canada at Sephora   Good news SPF lovers (which really should be all of us) – cult suncare brand Supergoop is now available in Canada. This week, the brand launched exclusively at Sephora with four of its key products: Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40, Dailyscreen Moisturizer SPF 40, Zincsreen 100% Mineral Lotion SPF 40 and (Re)setting 100% Mineral Powder SPF 45. Holly Thaggard, the brand’s founder and CEO, said of the brand’s products, “At Supergoop!, our mission is to make SPF not just a habit to wear every single day, but a part of your routine that is easy and fun. We strive to develop a range of products that feel good on the skin, work for all skin types and tones, and fit seamlessly into your existing skincare and makeup lineup. We recommend playing around with a few different formulas to find the right fit for your specific skin needs and daily routine.”   Holt Renfrew launched an exclusive new spring candle collection from Diptyque   Now that we’re all spending so much time at home, chances are you’re (literally) burning through your candle stash, which makes Holt Renfrew‘s exclusive launch of Diptyque’s new spring candle collection perfect timing. Called Colouring Spring, the collection is comprised of five floral scents, including Mimosa, Geranium Rosa, Coisya, Freesia and Iris. Buy them all to create your very own floral bouquet whilst you wait for your favourite farmer’s market to reopen.   Living Proof announced a new sustainable recycling program for its hair care packaging in Canada   Hair care brand Living Proof (which is part-owned by Jennifer Aniston) announced an impressive new recycling initiative in Canada this week. Moving forward, customers have two ways to recycle their empty products via dedicated program pages on the brand’s website in partnership with TerraCycle. Both options include free shipping labels for you to send the items to TerraCycle to be recycled. For every package sent to TerraCycle, customers can earn points which can then be redeemed for charitable gifts or converted to cash donations for a non-profit, school or organization of your choice. “Living Proof is committed to solving the toughest beauty challenges with safe, cruelty-free innovations that don’t compromise our planet, and partnering with TerraCycle has helped us further development this commitment,” Sarah Mountcastle Mitchell, the brand’s brand marketing manager said in a release.   Live Clean launched a new innovative dry mist shampoo   Canadian natural hair care brand Live Clean expanded its portfolio this week with the introduction of a brand new Dry Mist Shampoo. Made from plant and naturally derived ingredients (including witch hazel, nettle and arrowroot), it has been formulated without the harsh chemicals often found in other formulations and is available in four fresh scents. Dry shampoo, though wildly popular, can be damaging to our hair and the environment but Live Clean’s new safe formula – which is suitable for all hair types – ensures your tresses are taken of with no risk to the world around you. Plus, the dry mist shampoo is air-powered meaning it is powered by oxygen versus propellants. The collection is now available at Shopper’s Drug Mart, Jean Coutu, Uniprix, Familiprix and Well.ca.   Province Apothecary released a new antiseptic hand wash   Toronto-based beauty emporium Province Apothecary unveiled the latest product in its lineup on Friday – a limited edition antiseptic hand cleanser. Made with 95 per cent Ethyl Alcohol, the hand sanitizer is Health Canada approved and kills 99.9 per cent of germs. Right now, you can get your hands on a bottle for $16 (it will be regularly priced at $22) via the brand’s website.   A Canadian tattoo shop released a ‘Speaking Moistly’ lip balm in honour of Justin Trudeau   PM Justin Trudeau has been the subject of many a meme of late. Besides his casual hair flick, the most prominent meme is undoubtedly the one based on when the PM said masks would stop people from “speaking moistly.” The regret at his use of the words was evident immediately but now local Canadian tattoo parlour Painted People Tattoo Co. has turned his words into an actual lip balm. The ‘Speaking Moistly’ lip balm is made using mostly locally-sourced ingredients, including raw local Canadian beeswax, with no articifical fragrances or flavours. $2 from every lip balm sold will be donated to the North York Harvest Food Bank, too, so you’ll get a piece of history for a very good cause.  

Good news SPF lovers (which really should be all of us) – cult suncare brand Supergoop is now available in Canada. This week, the brand launched exclusively at Sephora with four of its key products: Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40, Dailyscreen Moisturizer SPF 40, Zincsreen 100% Mineral Lotion SPF 40 and (Re)setting 100% Mineral Powder SPF 45. Holly Thaggard, the brand’s founder and CEO, said of the brand’s products, “At Supergoop!, our mission is to make SPF not just a habit to wear every single day, but a part of your routine that is easy and fun. We strive to develop a range of products that feel good on the skin, work for all skin types and tones, and fit seamlessly into your existing skincare and makeup lineup. We recommend playing around with a few different formulas to find the right fit for your specific skin needs and daily routine.”   Holt Renfrew launched an exclusive new spring candle collection from Diptyque Now that we’re all spending so much time at home, chances are you’re (literally) burning through your candle stash, which makes Holt Renfrew‘s exclusive launch of Diptyque’s new spring candle collection perfect timing. Called Colouring Spring, the collection is comprised of five floral scents, including Mimosa, Geranium Rosa, Coisya, Freesia and Iris. Buy them all to create your very own floral bouquet whilst you wait for your favourite farmer’s market to reopen.   Living Proof announced a new sustainable recycling program for its hair care packaging in Canada   Hair care brand Living Proof (which is part-owned by Jennifer Aniston) announced an impressive new recycling initiative in Canada this week. Moving forward, customers have two ways to recycle their empty products via dedicated program pages on the brand’s website in partnership with TerraCycle. Both options include free shipping labels for you to send the items to TerraCycle to be recycled. For every package sent to TerraCycle, customers can earn points which can then be redeemed for charitable gifts or converted to cash donations for a non-profit, school or organization of your choice. “Living Proof is committed to solving the toughest beauty challenges with safe, cruelty-free innovations that don’t compromise our planet, and partnering with TerraCycle has helped us further development this commitment,” Sarah Mountcastle Mitchell, the brand’s brand marketing manager said in a release.   Live Clean launched a new innovative dry mist shampoo Canadian natural hair care brand Live Clean expanded its portfolio this week with the introduction of a brand new Dry Mist Shampoo. Made from plant and naturally derived ingredients (including witch hazel, nettle and arrowroot), it has been formulated without the harsh chemicals often found in other formulations and is available in four fresh scents. Dry shampoo, though wildly popular, can be damaging to our hair and the environment but Live Clean’s new safe formula – which is suitable for all hair types – ensures your tresses are taken of with no risk to the world around you. Plus, the dry mist shampoo is air-powered meaning it is powered by oxygen versus propellants. The collection is now available at Shopper’s Drug Mart, Jean Coutu, Uniprix, Familiprix and Well.ca.   Province Apothecary released a new antiseptic hand wash Toronto-based beauty emporium Province Apothecary unveiled the latest product in its lineup on Friday – a limited edition antiseptic hand cleanser. Made with 95 per cent Ethyl Alcohol, the hand sanitizer is Health Canada approved and kills 99.9 per cent of germs. Right now, you can get your hands on a bottle for $16 (it will be regularly priced at $22) via the brand’s website.   A Canadian tattoo shop released a ‘Speaking Moistly’ lip balm in honour of Justin Trudeau M Justin Trudeau has been the subject of many a meme of late. Besides his casual hair flick, the most prominent meme is undoubtedly the one based on when the PM said masks would stop people from “speaking moistly.” The regret at his use of the words was evident immediately but now local Canadian tattoo parlour Painted People Tattoo Co. has turned his words into an actual lip balm. The ‘Speaking Moistly’ lip balm is made using mostly locally-sourced ingredients, including raw local Canadian beeswax, with no articifical fragrances or flavours. $2 from every lip balm sold will be donated to the North York Harvest Food Bank, too, so you’ll get a piece of history for a very good cause.

  Clean makeup is invited into our kit for our greatest good and that of Mother Nature. And is about to revolutionize the entire cosmetic industry.   At first glance, the displays in the Sephora department store in downtown Montreal are very similar. From lipstick to foundation: there is all the arsenal necessary for the makeup bag.   But as you wander the islands, you will notice that green tablets bearing the words "Pure and healthy" are affixed to certain displays. Who is entitled to this distinction? The ranges free from harmful and ecologically responsible ingredients. Launched in 2018, the stamp now brings together around sixty brands.   An offer impossible to imagine barely 10 years ago, when beautists looking for clean makeup had very little to get on their skin. What happened? Sephora listened to its customers. "We have noticed a change in the concerns of consumers, who are increasingly looking for quality cosmetics with no suspicious substances," said Jane Nugent, vice president of merchandising at Sephora Canada.   In the target market there are millennials and generation Z, demanding customers looking for transparency and who read the labels carefully. "Companies even go so far as to modify some of their formulas to meet our selection criteria," says Jane Nugent.   Sephora is not the only business responding to this trend. The American retailer The Detox Market, created in 2010, has slowly established itself as the leader in healthy beauty. “When we started talking about clean makeup, it made everyone laugh. People associated green beauty with the hippie movement, ”says Romain Gaillard, founder of the chain, which has three branches in Toronto. Each product found on their site or in store must go through a rigorous evaluation process. "More than 1,000 companies contact us each year to be sold here ... It is essential to choose what we really like," he says.     Sea Surfer Curl Volumizing Mascara, Tart , $ 30  

What is clean makeup?

  In the absence of established regulations, the definition of clean makeup varies from brand to brand and remains open to interpretation. In principle, any component suspected of being carcinogenic, endocrine disruptor, neurotoxic or allergenic should not be present in the formula. In addition, the packaging, boxes and flasks must be biodegradable, with a low carbon footprint.   What client wants ...   This awareness has been brewing for a long time according to WGSN, the renowned London trend office whose expertise consists in anticipating the major consumer trends of tomorrow. "Several years ago, we predicted that ethical responsibility would become a non-negotiable criterion for buyers," said Jenni Middleton, WGSN beauty director.   Since then, the growth of this phenomenon has been observed in the food, fashion and, now, beauty industry. To such an extent that, according to a report published on the company's website, "cosmetic companies that neglect their environmental impact risk losing consumer confidence". The polling firm Nielsen has also revealed that internationally 73% of consumers were ready to change their purchasing habits to reduce their environmental footprint and that 38% preferred to buy ethical cosmetics.   This enthusiasm does not go unnoticed by opportunistic banners who see it as a golden marketing opportunity: being seen as eco-responsible is a sales strategy rather than a real value, which gives rise to the famous greenwashing). “Some brands distribute misleading information to give the impression of being green in order to arouse the interest of customers. This can result in misleading statements about the list of ingredients, the packaging (less environmentally friendly than it seems) or even the production chain (falsely carbon neutral) ", argues Jenni Middleton. Fortunately, the expert notes that the consumer is increasingly demanding to see evidence of these claims. And when the client wants something, everyone answers the call. Hence the “Pure and healthy” seal offered by Sephora.  

Precursors of yesterday, leaders of today

  These pioneering brands of clean makeup have paved the way towards a more responsible cosmetic industry.   Dr. Hauschka   Founded in 1957, the German company launched its make-up range in 1999 as a complement to the skin products it already offered. “We use the same raw materials as in our care. Infused with extracts of medicinal plants and certified organic vegetable oils, our make-up aims to sublimate women's beauty and not to mask it, ”specifies Marie Calas, head of research and development.     © Supplied by Châtelaine Eye and brow palette, Pierre shade, Dr. Hauschka , $ 65   Bite   "When we heard that a woman would ingest 3.17 kg of lipstick during her life, that made us think," reveals Sylvie Rouaix, vice president of product development at Bite. Originally from Toronto, the company has become a cult in the world of lipsticks. "We wanted to prove that makeup could be both safe and effective," she adds. In addition to being now 100% vegan, the Bite brand is launching foundations this year, pressed powders and foundation perfecting foundations.     © Supplied by Châtelaine Changemaker modular coverage pressed powder, Medium 2 shade, Bite Beauty , $ 48 for 7.5 g. Sublimating micellar foundation, shade L20, Bite Beauty , $ 52 for 30 ml.   Ilia   It is by peeling the ingredients listed on the boxes of her cosmetics that the Vancouver resident Sasha Plavsic wanted to create her own brand. What she did in 2011. “I loved a tinted lip balm. My first challenge was to reproduce it in a non-toxic version, ”says the entrepreneur. Nine years later, its illuminators, eyebrow gels and multipurpose sticks are sold like hot cakes. One of the secrets of its success? The formulas are enriched with beneficial ingredients, such as hibiscus extract or rosehip oil.   Green vs black   The European Union prohibits the use of more than 1,300 ingredients in cosmetics sold on its territory. In Canada, only 600 components are banned - which is still better than in the United States, where there are only about thirty. But why is there such a big difference between us and our cousins from across the Atlantic? According to Health Canada, this is notably due to the fact that the European Union studies substances individually, whereas here, they are grouped rather by family (for example, aniline dyes).   As for controversial substances such as parabens, phthalates and others, which are still permitted despite the concerns they raise, Health Canada claims to be watching them. The ministry follows “international scientific and regulatory reports closely, and regularly reviews the safety of chemicals in cosmetics in the form of risk assessments.”   The problem is simultaneous exposure to these ingredients, says Lise Parent, ecotoxicologist and professor at TÉLUQ University. In other words, a mascara used alone may not be a threat to health, but added, every day, to the foundation, lipstick and eyeshadow ... "We have no idea of their long-term effect, says the expert. However, we do know that phthalates have direct consequences for the rat's reproductive system and thyroid.”   Even if the human body is a wonderful machine for filtering out harmful substances, Lise Parent reminds us that it is not without its shortcomings, particularly in the case of endocrine disruptors. "They tend to accumulate in the body and, since they are similar to the hormones produced by it, our body is not always able to detect them and set in motion the process necessary to get rid of it, ”she explains.  

Green container

  According to the Zero Waste Week website, 120 billion packages of cosmetics are produced each year ... and most of them are not recyclable. A dizzying number to which several brands are responding with green initiatives. "At Maison Jacynthe, all the boxes are made of wood and aluminum, in addition to being reusable thanks to refills of eyeshadows," argues Marco Marsolais, make-up artist for the stars and co-creator of the range of cosmetics offered by the company. . For its part, Burt's Bees collaborates with TerraCycle, a company specializing in the management of non-recyclable waste, to ensure the recovery of its small pots.     © Supplied by Châtelaine Reusable case , $ 19. Terracotta , Mattina shade, and blush , In Love shade, Maison Jacynthe, $ 32 and $ 29.50   Where do the color pigments come from?   Most manufacturers of clean makeup - like Dr. Hauschka and Burt's Bees - opt for pigments of mineral origin, often identified on the packaging as iron oxides. At Maison Jacynthe, certain shades come from plant sources, such as the turmeric present in eyeshadows.   The red color, on the other hand, is more controversial. Brands choose carmine, a natural dye used for centuries and derived from crushed mealybugs (insects living on cacti). Vegan ranges will prefer to introduce some synthetic pigments.   As for the iridescent effect of certain illuminators and lip glosses, we owe it to an ore, mica. However, it is its extraction that is controversial. Many miners do in fact work with children, their small size being advantageous for digging wells and tunnels in deposits. Fortunately, ethical players make it a point of honor to source from responsible sources.  

Apps using

  How to take a closer look at the composition of products without carrying around a chemistry manual? Applications have been designed to scan the barcodes and the INCI list (the nomenclature of components) written on the packaging.   © Provided by Châtelaine Skin Deep App   Skin Deep   Works with ratings from 0 to 10 (10 being the level most harmful to health).     © Provided by Châtelaine Clean Beauty App Clean Beauty   We photograph the list of ingredients, then the application extracts the controversial components in seconds. Glossary of 800 ingredients.   © Provided by Châtelaine Think Dirty App   Think Dirty   Canadian application which evaluates, after reading the barcode, the ingredients according to ratings (from 0 to 10) combined with a color system. A substance rated 10 and highlighted in red = danger!   Performance at the rendezvous   Clean makeup has long suffered from a lack of hold. The eyeshadows spun in the folds of the eyelids, the mascara had to be reapplied several times a day, the textures were not in focus… Today, the cosmetic giants have corrected these weaknesses. Makeup artist Alexandre Deslauriers, who acted as a consultant for the makeup component at Burt's Bees, believes that we must still moderate our expectations. "It's not normal for a lipstick to last for 16 hours!" he exclaims.   An infallible outfit often betrays the presence of silicone. To maintain color on the lips, Burt's Bees has replaced plastic particles with mixtures of vegetable oils and waxes. In its tinted cream formula, it is squalane, a plant component extracted from olive oil, which solves the problem of spreading and adhesion to the skin. Bite, a brand recognized for its ultra-pigmented lipsticks, has traded dimethicone (silicone) for orange peel wax accompanied by agave nectar, both rich in antioxidants.   © Supplied by Châtelaine   Matt stick, Rippling Rose shade, Burt's Bees , $ 9.99   Maison Jacynthe Complexion Fluid is the favorite product of make-up artist Marco Marsolais. Its formula is enriched with borage oil, which gives it a malleable texture and hydrating power. "By applying it repeatedly on my clients' faces, I saw their skin change," he says. Green ingredients are also used in place of BHA and BHT (synthetic antioxidants) or formaldehyde (antimicrobial preservative) to preserve the products and avoid rancidity of fatty substances. To do this, Maison Jacynthe had previously used coffee extract, but will soon opt for Labrador tea to promote the natural riches of Quebec.  

Students from Parkview Public School's Green Team plant flowers. The school won $20,000 for their environmental efforts. (Submitted)   An elementary school in Komoka, Ont. is being rewarded for its environmental prowess, winning a $20,000 grant from Staples Canada to go toward new technology.   Staples' Superpower your School Contest is an annual campaign that hands out $400,000 to 20 schools across the country. Parkview Public School is one of two elementary schools in Ontario that won this year.   "It's a tremendous recognition for the Parkview community," said Julia Schmalz, the principal at Parkview Public School. "It's not just our students, but our staff and even our parents, and as a community as a whole, we're excited to have been chosen for this grant."   To be considered for the contest, schools have to meet three environmental attributes:  

• Making a positive environmental impact through projects and programs.
• Making environmentally responsible behaviour part of everyday school life.
• Displaying a long-term commitment to supporting a healthier environment.

  Parkview students start their environmental journey as early at kindergarten, where students hatch salmon eggs, grow the fish and then release them near Sarnia. They've established a Green Team which boasts about 60 environmentally engaged students. There are also outdoor classrooms for students to explore and investigate the world around them.   The Green Team was started by Grade 6 teacher Deb Perkins. She said that when she began teaching at Parkview 15 years ago, the only environmental initiative was paper recycling. Students upcycle used markers, grow plants in a hydroponic garden and plant gardens outside of the school. (Submitted)   "Fast forward to 2020, now we are recycling almost everything, upcycling, the community is bringing in batteries, cartridges, saving pop tabs for wheelchairs," said Perkins. "The upcycling's a big one. We can generate a little bit of money with snack pouches, we collect thousands of those and send them off to TerraCycle."   One of the school's most impactful initiatives is their composting cones, which students use to compost food scraps, reducing the school's waste from snacks and lunches. With over 650 students attending Parkview, the Green Team also encourages students to pack litterless lunches.   In addition to their conservation efforts, students are also learning how to grow plants. Some are using hydroponics indoors, while others are planting gardens outside of the school.   The Staples contest prize will be used to purchase items such as Chromebooks to support ongoing learning.   "My Green Team is usually about 60 members, so we're quite large, and to get that technology fast in their hands, it needs to be accessible and portable," said Perkins. "That's where the money's going to go."   Perkins says Green Team members do walk-a-bouts to the classrooms and do audits for conserving energy and minimizing waste.   "What we'd like to do is start weighing the garbage bins in the classrooms, tracking it, and we can turn it into math lessons for the teachers to see how much they've reduced their waste," she said.   The Staples contest is held in collaboration with EcoKids and Earth Day Canada to mark Earth Month.    

Living Proof, a company that uses scientific innovation and human ingenuity to tackle problems big and small, and international recycling leader TerraCycle, have joined forces to ensure that all Living Proof hair care packaging and spent aerosol cans are diverted from landfills and sustainably recycled nationwide.   “We are pleased to count Living Proof among a select group of luxury hair care brands that offer consumer-facing recycling programs that actively address this large category of waste,” said TerraCycle CEO and Founder, Tom Szaky. “Through the introduction of these innovative recycling programs, Living Proof is giving their consumers a powerful, sustainable option to divert their empty hair care and aerosol packaging from landfills, as well as demonstrate their respect for the environment through the products they choose to include in their hair care regime.”   Through this partnership, consumers are invited to recycle their empty Living Proof packaging in two ways:  

• Living Proof Aerosol Recycling Program: Participants wishing to recycle their empty Living Proof aerosol cans, including trial and sample sizes, are invited to sign up on the program page at www.terracycle.com/living-proof-aerosol. When ready to ship, following the shipping instructions provided on the program page, download a free shipping label and the included “Limited Quantity” label. Package the empty aerosol containers in the box of your choice and send it to TerraCycle for recycling.
• Living Proof Recycling Program: To recycle all other Living Proof product packaging, including trial and sample sizes, participants are invited to visit the non-aerosol program page at www.terracycle.com/living-proof. When ready to ship their packaging waste, simply download a free shipping label, package the empty hair care packaging in the box of your choice and send it to TerraCycle for recycling.

  “We are proud to partner with TerraCycle,” said Living Proof Brand Marketing Director, Sarah Mountcastle Mitchell. “Living Proof is committed to solving the toughest beauty challenges with safe, cruelty-free innovations that don’t compromise our planet, and partnering with TerraCycle has helped us further develop this commitment.”   With every shipment sent to TerraCycle through either program, consumers can earn points that can be used for charitable gifts or converted to cash and donated to the non-profit, school or charitable organization of their choice. Both Living Proof recycling programs are open to any interested individual, school, office, or community organization.  

For more information, visit https://www.livingproof.com/sustainability or http://www.terracycle.com.

It’s time to kick those eco-efforts up a notch. We’ve got a cheat sheet of smart shortcuts, clever swaps and easy ways to green your home— and your days.   So you shop with a cloth bag, buy the occasional item in bulk, turn off the lights when you’re out and triumphantly organize your trash on garbage day. Still, it can be tough to know if you’re really doing enough.   Unfortunately, if you consider being a Recycling Queen the crowning achievement of your eco-efforts, you might need to rethink your sustainability strategy. “The problem—and this is a bit of a wake- up call—is that recycling really doesn’t work in a consistent and systemic way,” says Vito Buonsante, plastics program manager at Environmental Defence.   Canada. In fact, only about nine percent of all plastic waste actually gets recycled. The reason why so little gets repurposed is complicated, but it comes down to the high cost of recycling coupled with the types of plastics being produced.   Ultimately, it’s time to think beyond the blue bin when it comes to shrinking our environmental footprint at home. After all, there’s also the reduce and reuse mantras—as well as reclaim, renew, rethink and refurbish—to consider.   Here are some smart ways to make life in every area of your home a little more sustainable.     IN YOUR CLOSET   If you’re planning to add a few new items to your spring wardrobe, you’ll be happy to hear that sustainable styles are more readily available than ever. Nike recently announced a capsule collection of sustainable apparel, with pieces that meet a 90 percent or better marker of efficiency. (Basically, they’re made entirely from recycled materials.) Last fall, Canadian company Call It Spring launched a new line of shoes and accessories made with post-consumer recycled water bottles, diverting a load (295,629 bottles, to be exact) from landfills and waterways. Gap is using 33 recycled plastic bottles in each of its new Upcycled Raincoats. The brand is also launching its most sustainable denim yet, with 100-percent organic cotton and production techniques that use at least 20 percent less water.   On top of using sustainable materials, outdoor brand Patagonia goes a step further, helping you repair garments and gear to make them last longer. Just take a worn item into a participating 1 retailer and they’ll fix it up or help you recycle it if necessary. After all, it’s estimated that on average, each Canadian throws away more than 80 pounds of clothing a year. Thankfully, there’s a rental revolution underway and it’s designed to whittle away wardrobe waste while saving you money and adding variety to your closet. For example, online service Rent Frock Repeat promises to refresh your everyday wardrobe with a steady rotation of four items, selected by you or a stylist, for just $129 a month (including return shipping and dry cleaning, too).

IN THE WASHROOM

  Since some plastic tubes, lids, bottles and caps can’t go in the blue bin, alternative recycling is essential. A few of the brands you already know and love, like Burt’s Bees, Eos and Weleda's Skin Food, can be returned through TerraCycle, an international recycling program. Even still, the waste from personal-care products can really add up. More than two billion plastic razors and cartridges are tossed in the trash annually in the United States alone. Vancouver-based Well Kept has a solution for that, selling stylish solid brass razors that are made to last a lifetime.   You can also eliminate a large amount of packaging simply by swapping bottled hand soaps, shampoos and body washes for cleansing bars, says Buonsante, who has banned most bottles from his own bathroom. “That’s an incredibly easy way to avoid creating a lot of waste,” he says. Try buying refillable glass bottles and purchasing your family’s basic hair- and body-care products at the zero-waste markets popping up across the country.  

IN THE KITCHEN

  “When we think about the circular economy, which is keeping materials in use for as long as possible at their highest form of value, it comes down to using better materials, designing items to be repairable and upgradable so you get that maximum life,” says Frances Edmonds, head of Sustainable Impact at HP Canada. In the not-so-distant future, 3D printing could give us the capability to have inventories of spare parts more readily available, extending the life of all sorts of technology in our homes, from printers to refrigerators. For now, our best bet is to shop thoughtfully, and that goes for big appliance purchases as well as small food-prep and storage options, like swapping disposable plastic wrap for reusable beeswax wraps.   When you’re grocery shopping, skip big-box stores in favour of bulk shops where you can bring your own reusable containers to fill up on everything from flour to dry cereals. Using your own glass jars eliminates excess packaging, plus it helps you buy only what you need, and curb food waste, which is good for the earth and your wallet. According to a 2019 report by Second Harvest, a Canadian food rescue organization that distributes food to shelters and breakfast programs, the annual cost of avoidable food waste is as much as $1,766 per household.   Sometimes our sustainability efforts, whether it’s remembering those cloth grocery bags or toting your aluminum travel cup, feel thankless and difficult and, frankly, like a pain. But some conveniences don’t actually come at a steep cost. Take time-saving Nespresso coffee pods, which are actually made from 100 percent aluminum, a material that is 100 percent and infinitely recyclable. Here’s some more good news: When it comes to cleaning up after dinner, the more efficient way to wash dishes is also the lazy way. Thanks to stricter-than-ever efficiency certification standards (like Energy Star), newer dishwashers use less water and energy than handwashing a sink full of pots and pans. Use an environmentally safe detergent (“loose powder formulas work very well, tend to come in a recyclable cardboard box, as opposed to a landfill-bound plastic pouch, and are often the cheaper option,” says Buonsante). Then, for best results, run a full load and skip the pre-rinse. This just messes with the machine’s soil sensors, wasting water and making more work for you. Because, let’s face it, you’ve got enough to do.

WE LIKE:

IN THE OFFICE

  Opting for responsibly-sourced office supplies is the easiest way to green your home workspace. Refillable pens (some even made from renewable bamboo) are a great option. When you’re shopping for notebooks and printer paper, look for the FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certification logo, so you know the product isn’t contributing to deforestation.   There are a number of ways we can be more eco-smart with our tech, from phones to laptops. HP recently released the world’s first digital notebook containing ocean-bound plastics and the company has committed to a goal of using 30 percent post-consumer recycled plastic across its portfolio of printers and personal computers by 2025. What our devices are made of is about to become an even bigger selling point for the eco-minded consumer. And so is a product’s potential staying power. "Extend- ing the product life as long as you can is an important consideration,” says Edmonds. “It’s very tempting to buy a cheaper product, but if it doesn’t last you as long, then you’re really defeating your sustainability goals,” she says.  

WE LIKE:

 

Vegan Body Care – The Body Shop

 

• Aloe Multi-Use Soothing Gel
• British Rose Body Yogurt
• British Rose Exfoliating Soap
• British Rose Hand Wash
• Coconut Oil Brilliantly Nourishing Pre-Shampoo Hair Oil
• Coconut Soap
• Fuji Green Tea™ Body Lotion
• Fuji Green Tea™ Exfoliating Soap
• Fuji Green Tea™ Hand Cream
• Mango Hand Cream
• Mango Soap
• Moringa Body Yogurt
• Moringa Hand Cream
• Moringa Soap
• Olive Soap
• Peppermint Cooling Foot Spray
• Peppermint Reviving Pumice Foot Scrub
• Pink Grapefruit Body Yogurt
• Pink Grapefruit Hand Cream
• Pink Grapefruit Hand Wash
• Pink Grapefruit Soap
• Satsuma Hand Cream
• Shea Exfoliating Sugar Body Scrub
• Shea Shower Cream
• Shea Soap
• Spa of the World™ Balkan Juniper Hand Wash
• Spa Of The World™ Brazilian Cupuaçu Exfoliating Scrub-in-Oil
• Spa Of The World™ French Lavender Massage Oil
• Spa Of The World™ Japanese Camellia Cream
• Spa Of The World™ Polynesian Monoi Radiance Oil
• Spa of the World™ Tahitian Tiaré Hand Wash
• Spa of the World™ Thai Makrut Lime Firming Oil
• Strawberry Bath Bomb
• Strawberry Hand Cream
• Strawberry Soap
• Wild Argan Oil Hand Cream
• Wild Argan Oil Soap
• White Musk® Body Cream

 

Vegan Skin Care – The Body Shop

 

• 100% Natural Shea Butter
• Aloe Calm Hydration Sheet Mask
• Aloe Multi-Use Soothing Gel
• Aloe Soothing Day Cream
• Aloe Soothing Eye & Lip Contour Care
• Aloe Soothing Night Cream
• Arber Aftershave Balm
• British Rose Petal-Soft Gel Toner
• Carrot Cream Nature Rich Daily Moisturizer
• Chamomile Gentle Eye Makeup Remover
• Chamomile Silky Cleansing Makeup Remover Oil
• Chamomile Sumptuous Cleansing Butter
• Coco Calming Face Mist
• Drops of Youth™ Eye Concentrate
• Drops of Youth™ Youth Bouncy Eye Mask
• Drops Of Youth™ Youth Concentrate
• Drops of Youth™ Youth Concentrate Sheet Mask
• Drops Of Youth™ Youth Essence Lotion
• Drops of Youth™ Youth Liquid Peel
• Elderflower Cooling Eye Gel
• Hemp Overnight Nourishing Rescue Mask
• Himalayan Charcoal Purifying Glow Mask
• Japanese Matcha Tea Pollution Clearing Mask
• Japanese Matcha Tea Pollution Clearing Mask Packette
• Kistna Aftershave Balm
• Maca Root & Aloe Post-Shave Water-Gel For Men
• Mandarin Energizing Face Mist
• Mediterranean Almond Milk with Oats Instant Soothing Mask
• Mint Mattifying Face Mist
• Oils Of Life™ Eye Cream Gel
• Oils Of Life™ Intensely Revitalizing Cream
• Roots of Strength™ Firming Shaping Day Cream
• Roots of Strength™ Firming Shaping Essence Lotion
• Roots of Strength™ Firming Shaping Serum
• Rose Dewy Glow Face Mist
• Seaweed Deep Cleansing Gel Wash
• Seaweed Oil Balancing Toner
• Seaweed Oil-Control Gel Cream
• Seaweed Oil-Control Gel Cream SPF 15
• Seaweed Pore-Cleansing Exfoliator
• Tea Tree Anti-Imperfection Night Mask
• Tea Tree Anti-Imperfection Peel-Off Mask
• Tea Tree Hand Wash
• Tea Tree Mattifying Lotion
• Tea Tree Night Lotion
• Tea Tree Oil
• Tea Tree Skin Clearing Clay Mask
• Tea Tree Skin Clearing Facial Wash
• Tea Tree Skin Clearing Foaming Cleanser
• Tea Tree Skin Clearing Mattifying Toner
• Tea Tree Squeaky-Clean Exfoliating Face Scrub
• Vitamin C Daily Glow Cleansing Polish
• Vitamin C Energizing Face Mist
• Vitamin C Glow Boosting Microdermabrasion Exfoliator
• Vitamin C Glow-Protect Lotion SPF 30
• Vitamin C Skin Boost Instant Smoother
• Vitamin E Eye Cream
• Vitamin E Gentle Cleansing Face Wipes
• Vitamin E Hydrating Face Mist
• Vitamin E Moisture Cream
• Vitamin E Overnight Serum-in-oil
• Vitamin E Quench Sheet Mask
• Vitamin E Sink-in Moisture Mask

 

Vegan Hair Care – The Body Shop

 

• 100% Natural Shea Butter
• Banana Truly Nourishing Hair Mask
• Coconut Oil Brilliantly Nourishing Pre-Shampoo Hair Oil
• Ginger Scalp Care Conditioner
• Grapeseed Hair Serum
• Shea Butter Richly Replenishing Shampoo
• Strawberry Clearly Glossing Shampoo

 

Vegan Makeup – The Body Shop

 

• All-in-One™ Blush
• All-in-One Face Base
• All-In-One Instablur™ Universal
• Brow & Lash Gel
• Brow and Eyeliner Kit
• Chamomile Waterproof Eye and Lip Makeup Remover
• Drops of Glow Lustre Finish
• Fresh Nude Foundation
• Lash Sport Waterproof Mascara
• Lip and Cheek Stain
• Lip Juicers
• Liquid Eyeliner
• Loose Face Powder
• Make-Up Setting Spray
• Matte Clay Concealer
• Matte Clay Powder
• Matte Clay Skin Clarifying Foundation
• Matte Lip Butter
• Own Your Naturals Eye shadow Palettes
• Paint in Colour Eyeshadow Palette
• Shade Adjusting Drops Liquid Foundation
• Shimmer Waves
• Shine Lip Liquid

    This vegan product list is updated as frequently as possible, please be aware that formulations may have changed since the publication of this post. If you have new information to suggest one of the above products isn’t vegan, please email me at info@ethicalelephant.com to let me know.  

Is The Body Shop Ethical?

Based in: UK   The Body Shop is a Certified B Corporation, meeting the highest verified standards of social and environmental performance, transparency and accountability.   Sustainability & Environmental Initiatives: The Body Shop claims they:  

• Favor ingredients classified as readily biodegradable
• Strive to ensure they have a low water footprint value and low eco-toxicity
• Measure and aim to increase the levels of ingredients from natural origin, which is any ingredient that comes from plant matter formed from physical, fermentation and other low-impact processing methods
• Use of ingredients from ‘Green Chemistry’ in which those that come from environmentally friendly processes and techniques, reducing the generation of chemicals which are hazardous to the environment
• Working fairly with their farmers and suppliers and helping communities thrive through their Community Trade Program of sourcing quality ingredients and accessories from expert producers across the world and enriching economically vulnerable communities.

  Eco-Friendly Packaging Initiatives: “We’ve started using our Community Trade recycled plastic in our 250ml Shampoo and Conditioner bottles (100% recycled plastic with 15% Community Trade recycled plastic, excluding our bottle caps.) In the future, we want to buy even more Community Trade recycled plastic from our partners so we can use it in more of our product packaging and strive to be even more sustainable.” Learn more on The Body Shop’s goals on using more post-consumer recycled plastic in the future.   The Body Shop also has a recycling program with TerraCycle where you can bring your empty bottles to be recycled in exchange loyalty members will get a credit.   Giving Back Initiatives: The Body Shop continuously supports and donates to countless charities, causes, and organizations. Learn more about The Body Shop’s giving back initiatives.

With it being Earth Month and the 50th anniversary of Earth Day, making conscious beauty decisions is on our minds more now than ever. But things like monitoring our consumption, optimizing our usage, and working toward more sustainable habits is important year round, not just on Earth Day. Now, before you go off thinking we’re suggesting you completely abandon your old ways, hear us out: it doesn’t take drastic measures to make your beauty routine more eco-friendly. There are plenty of tiny conscious beauty tweaks you can make.   “The beauty industry is only behind the food and beverage industry as one of the world’s biggest sources of waste,” said Belinda Smith, the founder of St. Rose. “However, instead of feeling guilty or discouraged let’s do something about it. Small progress every day is a big win and we all need to do our part if we are going to steer this ship around.”   Ahead, we’re sharing a few conscious beauty changes you can make in your everyday life to work toward a more eco-friendly, sustainable routine.  

Do Your Research and Support Eco-Friendly Brands

  We’re not recommending you give up your 10-step skin-care routine, but you can look to include more eco-friendly and sustainable products. “Support eco-friendly brands with sustainable ingredients,” said Allison McNamara, founder of MARA. “You have the power with your dollar to support brands that are doing their part to make a difference.”   You can usually determine if a brand is eco-friendly by looking at its mission. “Being more mindful as consumers is the number one thing,” said Smith. “Choosing better and buying less. Looking to invest in brands that are practicing what they preach.”  

Recycle Empty Beauty Product Contains

  Instead of just throwing your empty beauty products away in the trash, recycling them properly with beauty-specific programs. Unfortunately, many beauty products cannot be recycling in regular blue bins with other cans and bottles. That’s why programs like TerraCycle exist — they allow you mail your empty, typically non-recyclable beauty products to them to be properly repurposed.   To take your efforts a step further, you can look to support brands that partner with recycling programs. Garnier, Love Beauty and Planet, and Göt2b, to name a few, are all partners with TerraCycle and reward customers in various ways for recycling their empty products.   To help your products get recycled, McNamara explained you should clean them out before tossing them. “I know when you’re in the moment it feels like a chore, but anything (beauty, food, etc) with more than 10 percent left in the component doesn’t get recycled,” said McNamara. “Do your part and rinse out your containers.”  

Trade Your Single-Use Cotton Rounds For Reusable Options

  If you use a cotton pad every time you take off your makeup or use a toner, the amount you’re throwing away can quickly add up. To reduce your waste, switch to reusable cotton pads. “Not only are single use cotton pads wasteful, many contain plastics too,” said McNamara. “Invest in a cute acrylic stand and reusable cotton rounds and clean them like you would your towels.” Try The Good Stuff Reusable Cotton Pads.  

Opt for Products Made With Biodegradable Ingredients

  Plastic waste in landfills can take hundreds of years to decompose. So, next time you’re shopping for things like a toothbrush or hair brush, try looking for biodegradable options. For example, WedBrush’s Go Green Oil Infused Brush is made from all-natural biodegradable plant starch that naturally breaks down in a landfill within five years.  

Think About Packaging

  On the list of potential packaging materials, plastic is one of the worst. Glass, on the other hand is endlessly recyclable and is a better option of the two (however, when thrown out or recycled improperly, it can take twice as long as plastic to decompose). Whenever possible, look for zero-waste packaging. This includes items like shampoo, conditioner, and soap bars by Bottle None that come in plastic-free packaging.  

Buy Refillable Beauty Products

  More brands are allowing shoppers to buy refills to their favorite products without needing to purchase an entirely new jar or bottle. For example, OUAI sells refill pouches for their shampoos which uses less plastic than rigid bottles. Outside of the shower, the new brand Gelo Hand Soaps sells refillable, highly concentrated plant-based soap pods that are housed in a 100 percent biodegradable, water-soluble film that activates when combined with water and J.R. Watkins has a hand soap refill pouch, eliminating the need to purchase a new bottle.  

Cut Back on Single-Use Everything in Beauty

  Taking it a step further than just single-use cotton rounds, consider cutting back on single-use everything. “I stopped using sheet masks and face wipes years ago originally because I realized just how wasteful and unsustainable single use beauty products are,” said McNamara.