Know your green code: the A, B, Clean's of sustainable beauty products

GREEN VS ECO-FRIENDLY VS SUSTAINABLE

Green denotes that the bottle containing the product is manufactured using sustainable sources. It does not refer to the product inside the packaging.

Eco-friendly simply means that the packaging does not harm the planet;  it is biodegradable.

Sustainable means that the product was made using eco-friendly practices that can be sustained for the future.

CLEAN VS NATURAL VS ORGANIC

The term "clean" means that the ingredients may not be eco-friendly or sustainable but are safe to use.

Natural emphasises the purity of the ingredients; the product should not contain synthetic chemicals.

Organic is defined as being free from any synthetic chemicals that may be harmful to the environment and to people.

CONSCIOUS VS THOUGHTFUL

Being conscious is really a lifestyle term as it describes a way of thinking rather than a specific product. If you are conscious, you have a high regard for health, spirituality, wellness and the environment.

Thoughtfulness is being considerate of the needs of others; being well-informed and embracing the lifestyle of less is more. Thoughtfulness is not just about responsible shopping, it is about being ethically conscious.

5 OF THE BEST SUSTAINABLE BEAUTY BUYS

From sun-tanning oils to toothpaste, take a page out of our sustainable beauty handbook by adding organic, vegan, natural and cruelty-free products to your routine.

1. Olgani Mighty Cocoa Toothpaste 75ml, R115 available at Clicks.
2. Oway Phytoprotein Mist 160ml, R435.
3. Vita Liberata Advanced Organics Body Blur 100ml, R1,130.
4. Cold Pressed Skin Acai Maracuja + Pomegranate Phyto-Complex Body Juice 200ml, R450.
5. Instinctive by Nature Coconut Tanning + Body Oil 130ml, R250.