In today’s world, we are witnessing environmental consciousness more and more. For example, how many vegan and vegetarian products do you see nowadays in comparison to ten years ago? Luckily, the beauty industry is one of the most affected by this change. The number of ethical and sustainable brands has increased, and more companies are turning their attention to that direction. But, first, what does the term ‘ethical’ represent?
Ethical brands are cosmetics, skin and hair care products that are free of animal-derived ingredients, do not test on animals, and are not being sold in China. Why the last one, you might ask? Unfortunately, animal testing is still required by the law in Chhina. Although we’ve got a long way to go in terms of a fully ethical world, it doesn’t hurt to start trying to build for that future.
Here are our top five picks for ethical brands you should check out!
LUSH
If you are a fan of aromatic scented cosmetic products with a fun flare for colours and shapes, then you’ve probably heard of Lush. It’s an international brand that is entirely cruelty free, vegan, and vegetarian! Their ingredients are all fresh and ethically sourced. An example of their products that comes to mind are their exquisite bath bombs, but one thing that you may not know is that they carry their own line of Henna hair dyes! From Persian henna, cocoa butter and essential oils, this is a complete alternative to damaging hair colours.
THE BODY SHOP
This brand went a step further with turning to ethical aspects and have even invested in recycled plastic for packaging. They’ve also committed themselves to making better working conditions for their global south workers. The Body Shop is known for skincare, body care, bath and shower products, makeup, and fragrances. Right in this period they have some interesting offers and sales, so make sure to check your local Body Shop for any of those!
A proven great product is a Shea butter conditioner. It is richly replenishing, and interesting is that it comes from Ghana, handmade.
CHARLOTTE TILBURY
A makeup brand that you have probably recognised their luxurious brand whilst walking through a mall. In 2012, Charlotte Tilbury was founded by the well known makeup artist in
They are cruelty-free and vegan. Currently thrilling products that work extremely well in this heat (if anything is!) are their eye make up duo, eyeshadow palette and creamy eye shadows. We recommend the shades in ‘Pillow Talk’ or ‘Walk of shame’ both in rosy pink – goldish russet tones, with dashing gold sparkles.
DEAR DAHLIA
This company, based in Seoul, is inspired -as the very name says- by Dahlia flower. Also known as the “Queen of the garden,” their products are genuinely extracted from the Dahlia flower extract. With antioxidant formulas and anti-aging effects, it’s also entirely vegan and cruelty-free. Dear Dahlia also highlights that their products are ‘8-free.’ This means they don’t contain these 8 potentially harmful ingredients; Paraben, Surfactant, Phthalate, Metalloestrogen, Oxybenzone, Formaldehyde, Artificial fragrance, Animal-derived ingredients.
Dear Dahlia also has an award-winning Paradise velvet dream lip mousse, which is recognized and selected by international makeup professionals for its red shade.
REAL TECHNIQUE BRUSHES
All of us makeup veterans have heard of this trusty brand (and can remember their colorful design!) Real Technique is also cruelty-free due to its synthetic brush hairs. Although they’ve had some complaints about their plastic handles, they still stay true to their beliefs. Started in 2011, our beloved brand has now become known for the brushes and makeup sponges worldwide.
Their ‘Everyday Essential Kit’ is all that you need for applying the standard look. It’s practical and extremely affordable (it can be found online for around 20 dollars!)
