– By Medina Azaldin, Good Housekeeping.
It’s the perfume trend we can all get on board with.
There’s no glossing over it – the beauty industry is one of the biggest culprits in contributing waste to landfills. From the use of facial wipes (one of the worst offenders) to excessive packaging, it’s high time we reconsider our beauty purchases, and this applies to fragrance as well.
Thierry Mugler’s refillable perfume scheme – The Source – was a novel idea 27 years ago. Today, other brands have caught on, though we do wonder when this waste-minimising approach will be standard. But, it’s not simply refills that give perfume a sustainability badge of honour.
Here, with the help of industry experts, we break down all you need to know when it comes to getting greener with your scent buys.
What makes a perfume sustainable?
There’s no legal definition, so try thinking about your perfume as a whole, instead of just the finished product. Ethically-sourced ingredients, eco-conscious packaging, and creating a social impact are all factors that contribute to a fragrance’s sustainability credentials.
What should we look for in perfume packaging?
Glass perfume bottles and cardboard box packaging are often recyclable but plastic cellophane and pumps aren’t. Thankfully, there are brands making efforts to lessen the environmental impact through refillable bottles and eco-friendly boxes.
How do brands ensure ingredients are sustainably sourced?
Meanwhile, homegrown brand Parterre not only takes inspiration from the lush English countryside, but are also mindful with ingredients. Parterre grows its key ingredients such as lemon thyme in Keyneston Mill (you can even visit the Scented Botanic Garden).
Why are sustainable perfumes important?
“It is simply not an option to ignore the beauty industry’s impact on the planet. From ingredients to packaging, every aspect needs to be assessed,” says Michelle. And when it comes to being kind to the environment, every little bit helps – including being more thoughtful about your beauty buys. If your signature scent gives back to the planet, all the better!
By Medina Azaldin, Good Housekeeping, Beauty.
Photography DINA BELENKO, GETTY IMAGES
Find the original article here.