K-Beauty and Clean Beauty: Compatible or Opposed?
Reflections on the evolution of the Korean cosmetics industry
K-Beauty, a constantly evolving global phenomenon, captivates with its revolutionary innovations, unique textures, and high-tech formulations. However, in the face of the rise of Clean Beauty—a movement promoting more natural, ethical, and environmentally friendly cosmetic products—a crucial question arises: can K-Beauty truly become "clean"? Can performance and responsibility be reconciled?
K-Beauty: An Industry in Transition
Historically focused on performance, K-Beauty has sometimes neglected environmental and ethical issues. Today, a growing awareness among consumers, attentive to ingredients and ecological impact, is prompting the industry to move towards simpler and more responsible formulas.
1. Labels in Korea - Where do we stand?
Organic certification, a cornerstone of Clean Beauty, remains marginal in South Korea compared to European standards. However, some labels are emerging:
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EcoCert Korea: Used by brands like Aromatica or Haru Haru Wonder , this label is gaining ground by guaranteeing environmentally friendly products and natural ingredients.
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FSC Certification : Primarily associated with forest products, it guarantees that packaging from brands like Selenus comes from responsible sources, respecting strict forest conservation criteria.
These initiatives demonstrate a desire to better regulate production, even if they remain in the minority for the time being.
2. Product Composition: K-Beauty, Clean or Not?
Innovative but Complex Formulations
Korean brands often use formulas rich in active ingredients, sometimes including synthetic preservatives or surfactants. While these products are effective, they don't always meet the strict criteria of "Clean Beauty." However, brands like Haru Haru Wonder They opt for simplified and natural formulations, with carefully selected 100% plant-based ingredients, marking a return to naturalness.
Ethical Commitment: Cruelty-Free and Vegan
Since 2018, animal testing has been banned in South Korea, marking a significant turning point in the country's cosmetics industry. More and more K-Beauty brands, such as Dear Klairs, are adopting this approach. , Skin 1004 , Haru Haru Wonder and Selenus , They are committed to respecting animals by becoming vegan. Animal welfare is now a central element for these brands, thus responding to a growing demand from consumers concerned about ethical and responsible practices.
Innovating while respecting the planet
Sustainable innovation is also central to the strategy of brands like Innisfree . By harnessing the natural resources of Jeju Island—such as green tea, cherry blossoms, and volcanic minerals— Innisfree is committed to reducing its carbon footprint. The brand prioritizes local production to minimize transportation distances and support the regional economy, demonstrating that it is possible to combine cosmetic innovation with environmental responsibility.
3. Packaging: A Key Issue for Sustainable Beauty
Packaging is a major challenge for K-Beauty, which is often criticized for its plastic packaging. However, more and more brands are turning to eco-friendly alternatives.
Plastic Packaging vs. Eco-Friendly Alternatives
Some brands, like Herbloom , opt for recyclable packaging made with certified "green" paper and renewable soy ink. Haru Haru Wonder explores recycled materials. Amorepacific , for its part, invests in eco-responsible packaging, using recyclable materials and aiming to reduce its plastic use by 2025, while favoring FSC-certified cardboard.
Pioneering Initiatives and Challenges of Recycling
The adoption of eco-friendly packaging, the implementation of refill systems, and the use of single-material packaging that facilitates recycling demonstrate the industry's efforts. Despite these advances, the recycling rate for cosmetic packaging in South Korea remains low—around 30%—due to infrastructure that is still insufficient compared to Europe or the United States. Collaborative projects, supported by the Korea Cosmetic Association (KCA) and the Korea Packaging Recycling Cooperative (KPRC), aim to improve this situation.
Conclusion: The Future of K-Beauty Towards More Conscious and Sustainable Beauty
In conclusion, although challenges remain, the K-Beauty industry is evolving rapidly with vegan brands and recycled packaging, and could soon position Korea as a global leader in responsible beauty.
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