A wedding day is a joyous occasion filled with love, positivity and celebration. Every bride wants to feel and look the best she possibly can on her special day but for those concerned about the ethics of the cosmetic industry. Here are a few tips to getting that bridal glow with a clear conscience!
Ask Your Make-up Artist
Professional wedding make-up artists will have an extensive collection of cosmetics from a wide variety of brands. If you only want your wedding day look to use ethical cosmetics, from ethical pharmaceutical companies, talk to your make-up artist in advance and ask what products she uses. Most make-up artists will be more than happy to incorporate your existing cosmetics into your bridal make-up so if your artist’s collection is lacking in some areas, feel free to ask if you can substitute some items for your own ethical alternatives.
Fairtrade Cosmetics
Fairtrade beauty products use ingredients for which the producer was paid a fair price. Aiming to end exploitation of farmers and workers in developing countries, Fairtrade companies allow you to purchase with a clear conscience. The official Fairtrade Foundation maintains an up-to-date list of companies conforming to their guidelines or working alongside approved suppliers and producers. Fairtrade-approved products are easily identified by the distinctive blue and green logo on their packaging.
Eco-friendly Cosmetics
Free from harsh synthetic chemicals, eco-friendly cosmetics are not only better for the environment, they’re better for your skin too. Many products are marketed as “green” or environmentally friendly but a little research can usually tell you how much of this is true and how much is simply clever marketing. Look for products with certified organic ingredients and check what percentage these make up of the total. Any cosmetics certified by the Rainforest Alliance will promote environmental sustainability and are indicative of a truly “green” approach. Small-scale producers of cosmetics are on the rise and tiny, independent beauty companies are often founded in an attempt to offer an ethical and environmentally friendly alternative to the mass-produced, chemical-laden products of the multi-nationals.
Cruelty-free Wedding Day Make-up
Many cosmetics companies claim not to test on animals but use clever wording to disguise the fact that, actually, they do. Other companies might pay suppliers or third parties to test on their behalf. The safest way to ensure your wedding day face is cruelty-free is to only use products from certified cosmetics companies. For the most comprehensive and up-to-date list of cruelty-free make-up manufacturers, BUAV’s Go Cruelty Free list is a great place to start. Listing cruelty-free companies by country, the list also specifies which products are readily available online. Some very small or new make-up producers may be entirely cruelty-free but not yet certified so if you’re unsure, checking with the company directly should provide you with the answers you require.
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