Getting started with green beauty can be overwhelming. We created this checklist to help you save money and time as you shift into a holistic way of shopping.
Before you go
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Check yourself. Before you go shopping (online or in-person) pick 1-3 products you would like to switch and why. For example, deodorant and toothpaste, or shampoo and conditioner, or face care products.
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Pick your nonnegotiables. Write a list of the ethics you care about the most. This will help you keep your bearings while you are shopping
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Local, refillable, cruelty-free, organic, affordable, results.
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Shopping online or in-person? Go to a store that is trustworthy. Do not go to Shoppers Drug Mart to buy green beauty.
- Health food stores, zero-waste stores, eco-beauty stores, etc..
Out and About
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Read ingredients - Can you recognize them? Can you eat them? How long is the list?
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Check for certifications - Leaping Bunny, Planet B, Non-GMO, Organic, Fair-trade, are examples of 3rd party certifications companies can apply for. *Please note: not all companies will have these certifications because of the expense and size you have to be in order to apply.
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Brand investigation - Who owns this brand? Is there a parent company that does not follow your values?
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Where was this product made?
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Who are they trying to fool? Greenwashing is a multi-million dollar industry when companies spend money to appear environmentally friendly instead of doing anything. (What is Greenwashing)
Where to start?
- Start small - something you use every day
- Find a Resource:
- Environmental Working Group (EWG)
- Skindeep database
- David Suzuki Foundation
- B Certified
- Leaping Bunny
- Think Dirty app
- Tips to reduce your toxic intake - Miiko Skin Co
- Make a list (of non-negotiables) that align with your personal ethics
- Go to a store you trust
- Get samples
- Enjoy!