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By Davina C.
Originated in the US to describe the day after Thanksgiving, Black Friday has become a fixture in the UK retail calendar, since Amazon introduced it into the UK in 2010.
Consumers are given the chance to splurge on discounted products and special offers for the day, which continue to the following week's Cyber Monday.
2019 indicated rising consumer engagement in grabbing a Black Friday offer, whilst the retail landscape suggests UK consumer interest in Black Friday 2021 is waning. The pandemic and global climate emergency has turned people away from impulsive purchases and quick 'cheap' bargain grabbing, to a more conscious approach to shopping.
Research by retail marketing agency, Sitecore, found that more than a third of shoppers now associate Black Friday with over-consumption. In addition, 74% of consumers are now more aware about the effects of purchasing from waste to plastic packaging.
Kijani highlights some of the most environmentally conscious and pioneering brands in the beauty and wellbeing industry to make sure 'helping yourself' also means 'helping the planet.'
Here are a few top tips on how to shop 'better' and some of our favourite eco-conscious brands and award winning products to choose, so you can avoid Black Friday shopping guilt:
1. Make better choices
Learn more about the brands you shop from including ingredients, production and packaging.
2. Do your research
Is the brand certified? What are the values of the founder/company? Does the company work with communities or customers to have further environmental impact.
3. Start ditching disposables
Research companies that have taken a reuse, reduce, recycle approach to products or even a no plastic packaging policy. Start making your own small steps in the home: for instance, you can upcycle your own product containers by turning them into storage pots in the bathroom.
4. Reduce your water usage in your twice a day skincare regime
Make sure to not leave the tap running and use water sparingly with products.
We Love the Planet is a 100% sustainably responsible brand, founded in the Netherlands, which always takes the most 'planet friendly' option from ingredients to packaging. All products feature 100% naturally derived ingredients and are free from synthetics and additives. The packaging is also zero waste and recyclable from two options: a small sturdy tin can, which is recyclable or reusable, or a zero waste biodegradable and compostable cardboard tube. Both options are 100% plastic free.
Shop: We Love the Planet entire range
Pioneering Scientific Green Beauty brand, Antipodes, aims to produce skincare products that bridge the gap between natural formulations and scientific innovation. All products contain 100% natural, raw, plant based ingredients, carefully sourced from sustainable growers around New Zealand (the brand's homeland) - expect ingredients like Vinanza Grape, plant hyaluronic acid and Kiwi Seed Oil. All packaging is renewable, recyclable and reusable.
Antipodes Baptise H2O Ultra Hydrating Water Gel
This best selling weightless, intensive formula by Scientific Green Beauty brand Antipodes immerses thirsty skin in pure, natural moisture. Deeply thirst-quenching without heaviness or oiliness, the formula is easily absorbed yet powerfully hydrates skin, all day and night. Filled with natural ingredients derived from the Antipodes homeland, New Zealand, expect plant-originated hyaluronic acid, manuka honey, Harakeke gel, Mamaku black fern and other rich botanicals.
Shop: Antipodes Baptise H2O Ultra Hydrating Water Gel
Balade En Provence is a waste free, organic cosmetics company that manufactures sensorial beauty bars for face, hair and body. Using only naturally sourced ingredients from the Provence region, (where they are based), their philosophy is to promote 'bienveillance' (generosity or desire to do good). Always striving to make a good environmental and social impact, Balade En Provence works with local communities and manages waste - all products use 100% compostable packaging.
Balade en Provence Solid Eye Contour Serum Bar
This award winning eye serum addition to their beauty bar range is in a compact, solid bar form; the balm contains immortal essential oil known for healing properties and skin replenishing antioxidants including Omega 6, cocoa butter, borage oil. Expect brightening of dark circles, de-bagging and illuminated eyes after twice daily regular use.
