Transform your daily habit into positive actions that prioritise what matters most to you

Most of us pick the skincare products that suits us best – the face cream that hydrates our dry skin, the shampoo that defines our curls, or the lotion that smells like our favourite perfume. But every product we use impacts our bodies, communities, and the planet – in ways we don’t often realise. Harmful chemicals threaten human health, while unsustainable production methods devastate our ecosystems and exploit vulnerable workers. Instead of believing you are merely a helpless consumer, what if your choices could become a powerful form of activism?

When you choose products that prioritise health, sustainability, and social responsibility, you not only protect your own wellbeing, but you support the environment, help responsible businesses grow, and signal to industries that consumers demand change. These choices matter because they transform skincare from a personal routine into a form of global responsibility – where every transaction becomes an opportunity to vote for the kind of world you want to create. Here’s how to get started:

Define ‘ethical’

What is it that worries you most about your existing skincare routine? For example, there are some chemicals, such as benzophenone, which act as hormone-disrupters and can potentially hamper growth, fertility, and reproduction. Perhaps it’s the threat of absorbing microplastics that feels most pressing. Then, there is the animal testing aspect to consider, not to mention the impact that certain packaging and production methods can have on our planet. Consider what matters most to you, and take it from there.

The good news is that there are online spaces that do a lot of the work for you. Karen MacDonald, facialist and founder of blommabeauty.com says: “On our website, we list the ‘conscious credentials’ of products that may not be obvious at first, or when you receive your order – like how to dispose of the packaging properly.”

Read the label

Naturally, a good place to start is considering the packaging. “Pay attention to product packaging by checking for recycling logos, and selecting options that use eco-friendly materials like sugar cane plastic,” suggests Charlotte Vøhtz, founder of greenpeople.co.uk. “This helps reduce the environmental impact, and supports more sustainable practices.”

Then, check the ingredients list, looking for palm oil (its production drives deforestation, harming wildlife and ecosystems) as well as toxins – like parabens, triclosan, phthalates, sodium lauryl sulphate, sodium laureth sulphate, and synthetic fragrances. For more information on what specific toxins to avoid, and lists of brands that are cruelty-free, palm oil-free, or use sustainable palm oil, visit ethicalconsumer.org.

Look for certifications

If, like most people, you don’t have time to diligently research product manufacturing and ingredients lists before every purchase, then third-party certifications are here to help. Karen suggests looking for certifiers like The Soil Association, Leaping Bunny, The Vegan Society, and The Plastic Soup Foundation. “These are all super trustworthy and reliable indicators,” says Karen.

Similarly, the COSMOS logo confirms that organic or natural products meet the rigorous COSMOS-standard, meaning you can feel assured making a purchase. Charlotte explains the significance of this certification: “You can be confident that it contains a high proportion of organically grown ingredients that are ethically and sustainably sourced. These products are also free from genetic modification and animal testing, making it easier to make informed and responsible choices.”

Try to choose multi-purpose products

Sometimes, the most sustainable thing you can do is simply buy fewer products. Less consumption reduces the strain on the environment by minimising extraction, waste generation, and pollution associated with mass production – essentially contributing to a more sustainable lifestyle by using less of the planet’s limited resources. But what does that look like in reality? “Seek out multi-functional products that will tackle a number of concerns or functions,” suggests Karen. “Balms are great for cleansing and hydrating, and some powdered clays can be used as a mask, spot treatment, and even an exfoliator. I favour natural products too, because, while they need to be farmed, they’re renewable, and generally don’t contaminate the environment when disposed of.”

Be realistic

It can be overwhelming (and expensive) to completely overhaul your skincare routine overnight. So be patient with yourself as you transition to a more ethical approach, and be prepared to go at your own pace. Similarly, try not to be too hard on yourself if you have to make some difficult choices due to limited budgets, or a skin condition that requires specific, non-ethical treatment. “Small contributions and changes cumulatively make a difference,” says Karen, “so even if your whole routine can’t match your ethics, you’re still making an impact.”