Bloggers, celebrities, and basically everyone I know are talking about sustainability. That’s right, “clean beauty” is the hot topic right now. So, I thought Escentual’s French Pharmacy month was the perfect time to shine a spotlight on French skincare’s all-star brands who I consider eco pioneers.
In this line-up, you’ll find well-known icons with a new green makeover, unsung eco-friendly heroes, and the brands you know you can always count on to do their bit.
#1 The Organic Eye Makeup Remover
The Klorane Eye Makeup Remover is my number one French skincare sustainable hero; it’s made from organically farmed cornflower, and has an incredible factory to farm journey of only 48 km. And, it’s recently been reformulated with 87% natural origin ingredients! That’s not it, either. Klorane also has a 100% green chemistry extraction that only uses green, eco-friendly solvents; this process ensures the least possible impact on the ecosystem, which is a must for any product that uses natural resources.
For all those cult-fans of the original; hand on heart, I can promise you that the ultra-soothing, best-selling eye formula you adore is just as gentle as you remember. And, for those who haven’t tried it, you’re in for a treat! Klorane knows that the eye is the thinnest, and most delicate area of your face, so they’ve specially designed the Cornflower Lotion to remove stubborn mascara without redness, stinging or irritation. So, anyone with sensitive eyes can breathe a sigh of relief (even contact lens wearers)!
#2 The 1st Biocellulose Mask in Pharmacies
Next up is the anti-ageing, Hyaluron-Filler Hyaluron Intensive Mask; it’s a newcomer, released in late 2019, and has so much to offer! In just 10 minutes you can expect fine lines to be reduced, plus its soothing formula provides an instant cooling sensation as it hugs every contour of your complexion, providing all-over intense hydration. If you’re anything like me and love a dewy look, and refreshed-feel, you’ll adore the moisturising results of this sheet mask.
But, why is this in my sustainable heroes line-up? Well, you won’t be disappointed! What’s particularly special about this face mask is that it’s the first completely bio-cellulose mask in pharmacies. Completely biodegradable, bio-cellulose is a natural-origin material created in the fermentation of coconut juices, and packaged in foil, instead of plastic, it’s what I like to call a ‘sustainable all-rounder.’
#3 The Iconic Lip Balm That Protects Bees
It’s no secret that Nuxe Reve de Miel Honey Lip Balm is one of my all-time favourites. And, I’m in good company among a cult-following of beauty bloggers and addicts who sing its praises non-stop. So, Nuxe has treated us mega fans, committed to a greener way of life, to a one-off neo-apothecary style amber tub with recycled packaging. And, you’ll be happy to hear that the Reve de Miel Balm isn’t the only way they’re helping the planet – they’ve also partnered with the Lourve to protect and increase the number of bees, which is crucial to the survival of our ecosystem.
Why is it loved so much? It’s best known for its incredible lip repairing power on chapped lips. A blend of healing honey, botanical oils, beeswax, shea butter and propolis oleo active smoothes and nourishes dry lips instantly. But, if you ask me, it’s the delicious citrus scent and buttery texture that sell it!
Want to know more on this collectors’ edition? See our Co-Editor, Chelsey’s full Nuxe review here.
#4 The O-Zone Friendly Facial Spray
If sustainability is one of your top concerns, then you need to try the Evian Facial Spray. Unlike other face sprays, it’s made from o-zone friendly nitrogen, and 100% recyclable materials.
Pure, refreshing and super moisturising, the Evian facial spray provides my skin with a balanced dose of mineral goodness that I desperately need this time of year. Wondering where it gets its extraordinary mineral power from? Well, it takes 15 years to filter every raindrop through the French alps to the Evian stream, which ensures the highest water purity.
A few quick spritzes of this refreshing mist all-over my complexion helps me to feel more alert and ready for the day. You may be thinking, “but, is it suitable for my skin?” Well, the answer is, yes, it’s perfect for any skin type. No more tightness, its softening, moisturising effects can be enjoyed by everyone.
#5 The Biodegradable Cleanser
Let’s face it, Mustela was always going to make it onto this list. With a focus on natural ingredients and eco-friendly packaging, it wasn’t about finding a product, it was about choosing one!
If I had to pick just one? Without a doubt, it would have to be the Gentle Cleansing Gel. 100% biodegradable, the gel has been reformulated with 95% natural origin ingredients, and places protecting the biodiversity and local communities of the source, first.
But, it doesn’t end there, Mustela also uses 100% recycled bottles, recyclable promotional documents, and green electricity. On top of this, they’ve also cut 15% carbon emissions in the last 7 years. Each product is good for the environment and super gentle on the delicate skin of little ones! With all of Mustela’s dermatological expertise, there is no brand I would rather use to take care of my little niece and nephew’s skin.
#6 The SPF That Respects Our Oceans
Another addition to my sustainable haul is going to be the Avene Sport Fluid SPF50+. Not only does it protect your skin, but it also aims to manage environmental impact too (good news for a devoted clean beauty fan such as yourself). You’ll be happy to hear that unlike most SPF, it has been specially developed to respect our oceans. Reformulated to be more biodegradable, it only has four sun-filters, and no-water soluble sun-filters, which means a reduced impact on marine life. Finally, an SPF that protects our skin and the ocean’s ecosystem!
If you are anything like me, and you love running, being outdoors, or you’re constantly on-the-go, this high-protection sunscreen is a good choice. It’ll keep your skin protected against pollutants in the air, and stress caused by high-intensity exercise.
Discover More:
• 10 Things You Should Know About French Pharmacy Skincare
• 7 New French Pharmacy Skincare Products You Need
