The Definition
The terms sustainable, green, and zero-waste are always used simultaneously when referring to beauty and skincare.
Sustainable beauty—focuses on products that benefit both the planet and consumer health. These products use safe, non-toxic ingredients and avoid overexploited resources.
Zero-waste beauty—emphasizes reducing packaging waste, often using recyclable, compostable, or biodegradable materials.
Green beauty—focuses on eco-friendly production, considering ingredient sourcing, packaging, and disposal. It aims to minimize environmental impact.
In discussions about eco-friendly beauty, terms often overlap. It has become common for brands to prioritize environmental and social responsibility, aiming to reduce the negative impact of conventional beauty practices while promoting ethical and conscious consumption.
Scarcity of Resources
The United Nations has also stated, “Should the global population reach 9.6 billion by 2050, the equivalent of almost three planets could be required to provide the natural resources needed to sustain current lifestyles”.
But first, what is the definition of sustainability in beauty and skincare? It encompasses a wide range of practices within the supply chain. This includes sourcing natural and organic ingredients from renewable raw materials, reducing packaging waste, and advocating for cruelty-free products. The way products are produced, stored, delivered, and consumed has a direct impact on climate change due to greenhouse gas emissions and resource depletion.
The Potential of Plants
Rich in biodiversity, Malaysians have passed down traditional knowledge of herbs and natural remedies for generations. Many of these local herbs have been used for centuries and can be utilized to enhance the beauty industry sustainably. One example is Strobilanthes crispa, a plant native to Madagascar, Indonesia, and Malaysia. It is also known as the Black Face General and pokok pecah beling in Malay. Additionally, it has been scientifically proven to possess high antioxidant activity and anticancer properties.
Desert Beauty –
The Hidden Gems
Desert Beauty – The Hidden Gems
Nopal cactus, also known as prickly pear cactus or nopales, offers remarkable benefits for skincare. This unique plant is an ancient symbol of Mexico and grows abundantly throughout the country. Considered one of the desert’s resilient plants, its hydrating and anti-inflammatory properties are sought-after ingredients in skincare products. In addition to these benefits, nopal cactus is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that help protect the skin from environmental damage and promote a healthy, radiant complexion.
The Tercio Way
We are committed to crafting clean, effective, and environmentally friendly skincare products by exploring locally sourced natural ingredients. Our philosophy centers around blending traditional oriental elements, herbs, and innovative refining techniques to create a range of personal care products that benefit both people and the environment. Whether using fresh leaves directly from the farm or plant materials derived from renewable resources, our focus remains on minimizing waste.
Samples by Dr. Liang from Chia Nan University of Pharmacy & Science (CNU)
Sustainable Beauty from the Inside Out
To promote the health and well-being of people, we strive to minimize the environmental impact throughout our value chain. As such, we take several actions to achieve sustainable beauty from the inside out, including:
- Eco-friendly packaging
We prefer packaging materials that are biodegradable, recyclable, or made from renewable sources. Our minimalist designs and refillable packaging options further reduce waste.
- Upcycling leftover ingredients
Through special processing, we upcycle waste into cosmetic ingredients. Examples include coffee grounds, tea leaves, olive seeds, and fruit pulp.
- Clean manufacturing and logistics
We prioritize cleaner approaches by using renewable energy sources and materials. Our responsible supply chain simplifies logistics to reduce our carbon footprint.
Our mission is to give leftover natural ingredients a second life, contributing to a greener lifestyle. Instead of going straight to the landfill, we extract beneficial leftover ingredients and turn them into beauty-related products.
Why Opt for Natural and Sustainable Cosmetics?
Beauty should not come at the cost of the environment. Similar to other consumer goods, the entire production cycle could lead to excessive greenhouse gas emissions and waste generation.
That is why sustainable cosmetics and skin care products have gained massive popularity among eco-conscious consumers.
- Minimize environmental impact
By choosing sustainable and reusable inputs, we can reduce the amount of waste generated annually. For instance, using recyclable, refillable, or bio-degradable alternatives can help reducing packaging waste in landfills.
- Toxin-free and chemical-free substances
Through research and innovation, consumers can now expect more beauty products that are free from harmful chemicals and gentle on the skin. They are also suitable for individuals with sensitive skin due to the lack of synthetic fragrances and artificial preservatives.
- Reduce your carbon footprint
Nowadays, consumers adopt a more responsible and conscious consumption approach, such as the use of reusable and recyclable packaging. They are one of the key indicators for brands to implement appropriate sustainable goals and practices.
- Affordable, effective products
Made from safer and renewable raw ingredients, consumers can be part of the value chain to support small and local businesses while carrying out their role in conserving nature.
Innovations bring beauty back to nature. We believe that new formulations, coupled with the use of natural, organic, and renewable ingredients, are pioneering the future of sustainable beauty, green beauty, and zero-waste beauty development.
