Skincare enthusiasts are paying attention to the quality of products they use. Does the brand consciously choose biodegradable packaging? Do they source their ingredients responsibly? Do they follow production standards that protect your skin? 

The term “green” may still be a catchall phrase with no exact, standard definition. Still, for Green Chemistry, it’s clear—it’s all about making an effort to create environmentally and ethically sound products that work. This means building a line that respects mother Earth, both in the ingredients we choose to use and how we create our products. 

Where to start

This month, as we celebrate Earth Day, we wanted to remind everyone why going green matters. If a product is intended to stay on your skin for an extended amount of time, wouldn’t it make sense to make sure you’re using clean, safe ingredients? 

Start by checking the ingredients of your go-to products and make sure that you’re not using anything daily that contains parabens, chemical dyes, or artificial fragrances. These are the most prominent beauty ingredients that have recently raised concerns among skin experts. Why? Take parabens, for instance, an element that mimics estrogen and has been linked to reproductive organ harm and hormone-related cancers. Artificial fragrances can expose you to phthalates linked to reproductive and hormonal harm in children and men. 

There are thousands of ingredients commonly used in personal care products, with nearly 14,000 having been found to contain industrial chemicals known for being carcinogens, pesticides, and hormone disruptors. 

Taking a Green Step Forward

As a beauty enthusiast, you want to know that you’re doing your part to make a real change for the better. Awareness is just one part of the deal. You can also take active steps to make your beauty routine more eco-friendly: 

Shop with a brand that follows environmentally friendly practices. Don’t assume that natural, eco-conscious production practices compromise quality or efficacy. If it’s from a reputable brand, you can trust that it’s good for the planet. 

Ensure that the brand is also cruelty-free and is against animal testing.

If you’re used to following a skincare routine, try swapping out just one product for a greener option. You’ll notice a difference. From there, you can explore other options.