It was not all that long ago that contouring and brow pomade tutorials dominated social media and conversations surrounding beauty. Many makeup users followed trends and took to big cosmetic brands for matte lipsticks and color-correcting primers, not realizing the practices being funded.
Since then, there has been an upsurge in the market for cruelty-free and sustainable beauty products. While the need for cruelty-free and sustainable beauty products remain an issue, many companies have their official stance on ethically sourced makeup
Since awareness for smart consumerism within the market of makeup and skincare has grown, there has been a general increase in the search for the most ethical products at the least damaging price – as well as new companies emerging with
This push for informed purchasing is rightfully so, since finding companies that check all the ethical boxes listed above is not an easy task.
It is hard to be a smart consumer when the number of products available to buyers with various needs and desires is numbered.
While finding ethical beauty products is hard, it is not impossible. Here are some products that are ethical and effective for your skin.
DERMA E
This brand manages to be inexpensive, clean and accessible at the same time.
Derma E can be found at most chain retailers that have affordable beauty sections, typically in the vegan or clean makeup section.
In my experience, this skincare brand covers a wide range of concerns with its products. While the packaging is not my personal favorite, the label is transparent in language that expresses the brand’s commitment to omitting harmful parabens, sulfates and other not-so-great ingredients.
My personal favorite thing about this brand is that its website is as transparent as the company itself claims to be, with a plethora of resources that explain their products and what makes up their formulas.
While they, unfortunately, do not sell makeup products, Derma E has ample support from customers and supports the use of ethically sourced materials.
ODYLIQUE
Odylique is an undeniably ethical brand with moderate accessibility; the products are only available online but have relatively affordable pricing. The skincare and sparse makeup line remain in the lower price range, similar to Derma E.
Pronounced “oh-di-leek,” this clean beauty company is a UK brand that prioritizes natural ingredients for sensitive skin. Its products are tested on human volunteers with sensitive skin and adhere to environmental regulations that ensure sustainability.
Odylique produces makeup but does not have a wide range of colors or products –– the line carries three concealers with three shade options. On the website, the appearance of the concealers looks to have a satin finish and not much depth, which is disappointing.
In addition to shipping feeling like a hassle, the flat fee of around $6 for ordering products online is only semi-redeeming.
While I have not used this brand, the search results do not lie from the satisfied customers who have used these products.
RESOURCES AND WAYS TO SUPPORT
Though the two brands I have listed both come with shortcomings, the reality is there are very few brands that do not. Ethical and responsible consumerism feels like a chore because of the brands that are accessible to the general public for a price that does not break the bank.
There are websites such as ethicalconsumer.org and multiple lists provided by online publications that can help direct consumers looking to clean up their routines.
For some, this will be an easy feat.
I will not pretend to know every single person’s situation and needs for makeup and skincare, so for those with social media, there are many ways to post and endorse the manufacturing and sourcing of ethical beauty, whether that be through making posts, interacting with brands or even just spreading awareness.
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