Yesterday The Ethicalist hit Hall 7 at Beautyworld Middle East, the region’s largest trade fair for the beauty and wellness industry, eager to check out the Clean and Conscious exhibition.
This year, sustainability truly took centre stage, showcasing an impressive array of eco-friendly products to capture the attention of retailers, spas, and online shoppers. Brands are clearly prioritising sustainability more than ever, offering options that are vegan, cruelty-free and responsibly packaged.
The rise in popularity of sustainable beauty can largely be attributed to a growing awareness of the environmental damage caused by the traditional beauty industry. Globally, beauty products require over 120 billion units of packaging every year, much of which is polluting plastic that can take up to 450 years to decompose.
Additionally, beauty products often contain chemicals like phthalates, parabens, and sulfates, which can cause skin irritation and have been linked to hormone disruption. And it’s not just us humans at risk. When these chemicals are washed off, they enter waterways where they harm marine life and disrupt ecosystems.
Recognising these impacts, consumers are driving demand for eco-friendly products, leading to innovations like biodegradable packaging, refillable containers, and plant-based, non-toxic ingredients. So, if you’re looking to add some eco-friendly beauty to your routine, check out these standout brands from Beautyworld Middle East 2024, that we’ve rounded up just for you!
The Act
The Act is a brand dedicated to natural and uncomplicated beauty, where the philosophy centres on well-being and the power of plants. Their body scrub range and rich body butters are the signature go-to for their growing fan base. Crafted from recycled materials, the sleek packaging appeals to those who value eco-friendly products… and an ideal gift for the upcoming festive season.
Dr. Natural
For natural hair care products tnat work, head to Dr. Natural. Their haircare range features a best selling shampoo and conditioner infused with natural ingredients like argan oil and coconut for deep repair and nourishment. Their products are readily available on major distribution platforms and in-store at Brands for Less locations dotted around Dubai.
Free Yourself
Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword for Free Yourself; it’s integral to their ethos. The brand has implemented sustainable practices throughout its supply chain, from responsibly sourcing ingredients to using eco-friendly packaging. Free Yourself prioritises natural ingredients and avoids harmful synthetics. They also ensure fair labour practices and support local communities where they manufacture. A beauty product that believes true luxury doesn’t come at the cost of our planet or its people.
Jillian Switzerland
Have you made the switch to eco-friendly perfume? If not, now is the time to try. Inspired by Switzerland’s stunning landscapes and nature – think edelweiss for example – Jillian Switzerland creates sustainable scents using responsibly sourced, cruelty-free natural ingredients. They work closely with suppliers who prioritise sustainable harvesting and fair trade, ensuring that every fragrance is as gentle on the earth as it is on your skin. Jillian Switzerland’s packaging is equally thoughtful, featuring recyclable materials and often refillable designs, keeping the experience luxe without the environmental footprint.
Rootree
Rootree, a South Korean clean beauty brand launched back in 2015, combines effective formulas with a deep commitment to sustainability. Using only certified organic, plant-based ingredients sourced from Jeju Island – known for its nutrient-rich volcanic soil and mineral waters – their products are as beneficial for the skin as they are for the environment. Rootree’s packaging is 100 per cent recyclable, using eco-friendly ink and adhesives to minimise environmental impact. We love their besteller the Cryptherapy Revitalizing Cream, which harnesses the power of Cryptomeria Japonica Leaf Extract—a Jeju-native plant with potent antioxidant and soothing benefits that can hydrate, calm, and strengthen the skin’s natural barrier.
rootree.com
Snow Fox
From recyclable packaging to cruelty-free natural -or naturally derived – ingredients and facilities that run on 55 per cent renewable energy, Snow Fox takes sustainability to the next level. Each skin and haircare formula in their portfolio are free from harmful chemicals, parabens, and artificial fragrances, adhering to the strict standards of the EU 1500 banned ingredients list and more. We love the Tetrapeptide And Ginseng Hair & Scalp Serum enriched with pure caffeine to promote hair growth; tetrapeptide for hair density, and ginseng, to revitalise hair follicles.
The Handmade Soap Company
The Handmade Soap Company started on a kitchen table with just two pots and a heartfelt commitment to kindness—kind to our planet and kind to our skin. This ethos shines through in their delightful home and body care collections. The packaging is not only eco-friendly but also incredibly pretty, making it a charming addition to any bathroom or gift basket, and reusable. One of our favourites is the Lemon Grass & Cedarwood range, which perfectly embodies their dedication to natural beauty.
For more information on the event, visit the website here.