The Impact of Plastic Packaging on Skincare Products and Why Glass is a Better Option

The Impact of Plastic Packaging on Skincare Products and Why Glass is a Better Option

The skincare industry is facing increasing scrutiny over its environmental impact especially as we become more aware of the impact of plastic packaging, harmful chemicals, and unsustainable manufacturing practices.

Conventional skincare products are often packaged in plastic, contain synthetic chemicals and preservatives, and are manufactured using energy-intensive processes that contribute to greenhouse gas emissions (hello soy)!

 A report by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation estimated that the equivalent of a garbage truck of plastic is dumped into the ocean every minute, and by 2050, there could be more plastic in the ocean than fish. Many conventional skincare products come in plastic packaging, contributing to plastic pollution and can take hundreds of years to break down.

Studies have shown that certain chemicals commonly found in plastics, such as phthalates and bisphenol A (BPA), can leach into the products they contain, including skincare products. These chemicals can potentially disrupt hormones and have been linked to a variety of health concerns, including reproductive problems and developmental issues in children. 

On the other hand, glass is considered a safer and more eco-friendly alternative to plastic for packaging skincare products. Glass is non-toxic, impermeable, and non-reactive, which means it doesn't leach harmful chemicals into the products it contains. Additionally, glass is infinitely recyclable and has a lower environmental impact than plastic, as it can be recycled indefinitely without losing quality or purity.

Several studies have also compared the impact of plastic versus glass packaging on the quality and safety of skincare products. One study, published in the Journal of Applied Toxicology, found that the plastic packaging used for some skincare products can cause chemical contamination that alters the product's composition and stability. Another study, published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science, found that glass packaging was more effective at protecting skincare products from oxidation and light-induced degradation than plastic packaging. 

Whilst glass packaging can be frustrating to send via post it is importantly eco friendly AND ensures a pure tallow product. I won’t compromise on this one!

Furthermore, many conventional skincare products contain harmful chemicals that can have long-term health effects.

A study by the Environmental Working Group found that the average person uses nine personal care products each day, which can contain up to 126 different chemicals. Many of these chemicals have been linked to health concerns, including cancer, reproductive problems, and endocrine disruption.

Whipped tallow moisturizer is a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional skincare products. It is made from grass-fed animal fat and blended with essential oils, making it a natural, non-toxic, and highly moisturizing product.

Also, tallow is a byproduct of the meat industry and is a sustainable, renewable resource. By using tallow in skincare products, we can reduce waste and support sustainable practices PLUS we can replace many beauty products with just one jar of tallow as it such a multi purpose cream/balm!

Let’s normalise ancesteral wisdom + products 🌟

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