Slow Cosmétique : Championing Ethical and Eco-Friendly Cosmetics
June 17th 2024
As we observe an ever-growing concern for sustainability and ethical considerations from consumers and stakeholders alike, the beauty industry is undergoing a significant transformation. One of the trailblazers in this movement is the Slow Cosmétique Association, a Belgian organization that has created a label of the same name. This label is designed to promote responsible consumption of cosmetic products, emphasizing the use of simple, natural ingredients and considering the entire brand, not just individual products. Remarkably, over 80% of the brands that have earned this label are French SMEs, showcasing a commitment to ethical practices in the French beauty sector.
The association sums up the guarantees of their label around two main pillars: healthy cosmetics, and authentic cosmetics.
Healthy Cosmetics
The Slow Cosmétique label sets rigorous criteria to ensure that the products are healthy for both consumers and the environment. The emphasis is on minimal ecological impact, achieved by avoiding petrochemicals and prioritizing local sourcing whenever possible. The ingredients used are simple and safe, ensuring that there are no long-term toxic effects.
Additionally, the label mandates that the activity respects all living beings. This means that no animal testing is conducted, and that the health of humans and ecosystems alike is prioritized throughout the brands’ activity.
Authentic Cosmetics
Authenticity is a cornerstone of the Slow Cosmétique philosophy. The label encourages brands to engage in intelligent practices that meet consumer expectations. This includes creating useful products made from noble ingredients, promoting the idea of consuming less but better. Marketing practices are also scrutinized to ensure they are reasonable, avoiding greenwashing, and maintaining fair prices. The message conveyed by these brands must be realistic and align with their ethical stance.
Rating System
The Slow Cosmétique label employs a star rating system to assess how well brands meet its criteria. Brands can receive 1, 2, or 3 stars, corresponding to meeting at least 60%, 75%, or 90% of the criteria, respectively. This transparent rating system helps consumers make informed choices and support brands in their journey towards more responsible practices.
More than just a certification, the Slow Cosmétique label aims at participating in a movement that promotes a responsible approach to consumption. By focusing on simple, natural products and considering the entire brand, the label ensures that consumers are not misled by isolated claims of sustainability. This holistic approach helps to foster trust and encourages brands to adopt genuinely ethical practices across their entire product range.
The Slow Cosmétique label is a testament to the growing importance of responsibility in the beauty industry. By adhering to strict criteria that prioritize health, authenticity, and ecological impact, the label sets a high standard for brands. As more consumers seek out ethical and sustainable products, the Slow Cosmétique movement will undoubtedly continue to play a crucial role in shaping the future of beauty.
Want to find out more? Here are some of our brands that have received the Slow Cosmétique certification: