Intelligent Beauty

Meet the brands making major sustainable strides

Last Updated: 09/08/2023

The world is waking up to the collective need to handle waste effectively — we’re rescuing more and more plastic from landfill, swapping our take-away cups for reusable options and taking a tote bag whenever we shop. We sort through our rubbish and aim to recycle as much as we can but, until fairly recently, beauty was lagging behind when it came to sustainably packaged products. Opulence and ethics felt opposed, with many believing you couldn’t have both but, the tables are turning and more and more brands are now looking for ways to house products responsibly — opting for biodegradable boxes (some of which are laced with seeds!), choosing glass or recyclable bottles and offering refills to limit the quantity destined for landfill.

Powered by Provenance® — an independent software solution that holds brands to their word — our Cult Conscious edit helps you shop by your values with confidence. It spotlights products with credible Proof Points – from Recyclable Packaging to Cruelty-Free — so you have at-a-glance confirmation that something is up to your standards. Without further ado, these are the names making major sustainable strides…

a collection of cult conscious beauty products

Purveyors of skin care products that are plant-based and of unparalleled quality, Youth To The People is the eco-conscious beauty brand committed to harnessing nutrient-dense superfoods that have a big impact on your skin — but minimal impact on the planet. Every formula from the brand is cruelty-free, 100% vegan and infused with beneficial vitamins and other proven, natural sources of youth-preserving goodness. We’re obsessed with its Superfood Cleanser — made with cold-pressed antioxidants  

Not only here with expert formulas, luxurious textures and enchanting scents, but ESPA is also the spa-worthy beauty brand dedicated to creating products that respect our precious planet. Powered by naturally derived ingredients, ESPA has proof-point ticks for The Vegan Society Trademark and are Vegetarian Society Approved. What’s more, the brand also uses 25% recycled PCR material in its tubes, while some of its products are housed in widely recycled packaging. We love the Cooling Body Moisturiser — a light cream-gel that calms irritation, deeply hydrates and cools thanks to its infusion of menthol. Obsessed!    

a collection of cruelty free products shot in a studio

Larry King Hair Care is another brand committed to nurturing nature. With shampoos and conditioner housed in refillable glass bottles, the beautiful range doesn’t compromise looks in pursuit of an ethical standpoint. Using glass, aluminium and FSC certified card throughout their ‘Wash Cycle’, the trio of styling essentials is boxed using biodegradable card impregnated with wildflower seeds so that if they end up in the wild they should (hopefully) sprout some forget-me-nots.

Pioneers when it comes to respecting the planet, REN Clean Skincare have gone one step further, by launching the first — of hopefully of many — products that’s not only entirely recyclable, but also made from recycled materials. With an innovative metal-free pump, their Atlantic Kelp and Magnesium Anti-Fatigue Body Wash is contained in a bottle that’s made with at least 20% recovered ocean plastic, salvaged from seas, beaches and waterways.

Taking pains to care for the planet with minimal packaging, minimal water usage and ethical practices, NatureLab TOKYO is the key to clean hair and a clean conscience! Even though their shampoo and conditioners already boast 50%+ recyclable packaging, they’re now encouraging us to buy less and buy better by investing in their refills; double the portion of a bottle but with 85% less plastic than two full-size bottles, these eco-friendly pouches are as good for the earth as they are your purse.

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Cult Beauty

Cult Beauty

Writer and expert