Why You Need To Be A Conscious Shopper When It Comes To Beauty Products
Bloomberg/Getty Images
By Paige McBride/Aug. 25, 2021 3:22 pm EST
Currently, the European Union has 1,400 chemicals banned from consumer products while the US has 20. While there’s some margin of error in this number, it still shows just how many chemicals could be in your skincare bottles.
The cosmetics industry produces 120 billion plastic containers each year
Rido/Shutterstock
If you’re curious about how one of your favorite skincare or makeup brands stack up in this regard, you can do some research to see how they’re combatting this problem — or not. “Start with the brand’s website — dig deep and immerse yourself in their process. If you feel that certain questions aren’t being answered, then ask them. Use social media to find out more — the unedited opinion of other consumers is usually out of the brand’s control and will be raw and honest,” Anna-Marie Solowij, co-founder of Beauty Mart, recommends to Byrdie.
Other sources such as the Environmental Working Group dive into the various chemicals present in your products. Download their app to check which items you need to be careful applying and recycling. Furthermore, Byrdie suggests focusing on which aspects are important to you — whether that means your main concern is eco-friendly packaging or non-toxic ingredients.
Protect yourself and the planet by finding truly clean products that align with your values.