Many people use skincare and cosmetic products to keep their skin looking healthy. For women, it often feels like daily skincare is a must. But with so many options available in stores, it’s hard to know which ones are truly good for you. Men’s skincare is also gaining attention, and more men are now using these products.
I sometimes wonder, do we really need all these cosmetics? It’s a valid question. Since we can live without them, those aiming for zero waste often start by rethinking their skincare routine. Some ingredients can harm the environment, so it’s worth choosing products that are sustainable and ethical.
That said, many of us still want to maintain beautiful skin. This article introduces how to choose eco-friendly skincare products in Japan that are kind to both your skin and the planet.
Environmental and Health Concerns of Cosmetics
Cosmetic Waste
Cosmetics have long shelf lives, so their disposal isn’t widely discussed. But due to seasonal trends and changing fashions, many unsold but still usable products are discarded. Just like fast fashion, the demand for new products results in more waste.
Harmful Ingredients and Pollution
Many cosmetics contain petrochemical ingredients that don’t biodegrade easily, leading to environmental pollution. Some sunscreen ingredients are known to contribute to coral bleaching and are now banned on beaches in places like Hawaii.
These products often contain many chemicals, and most users don’t know exactly what they’re applying to their skin.
Animal Testing and Abuse
To test for safety, many cosmetic ingredients are still tested on animals. These animals live in cages, often suffer long-term harm, and are discarded after use. The EU banned animal testing for cosmetics in 2013.
Too Many Chemicals Can Harm the Skin
Even products considered safe for human use can harm the skin due to excessive chemical content. Powerful cleansers and products that penetrate deep into the skin should be used with caution.
Clean Beauty: A New Standard
Globally, “clean beauty” is gaining attention. Cosmetic brands are shifting their focus from just solving skin problems to also addressing environmental and social responsibilities.
What is Clean Beauty?
- Eco-conscious products made from organic or natural ingredients without pesticides or synthetic chemicals.
- Cruelty-free products that are not tested on animals.
- Ethical products made without child labor and in fair working conditions.
- Traceable ingredients with transparent sourcing and formulation.
How to Choose Eco-Friendly Skincare products
Look for Certified Products
If you’re unsure where to start, choose products certified by third-party organizations:
- JAS Organic (Japan) – For organically grown products.
- Fairtrade International – For fair, ethical production practices.
- Rainforest Alliance – For sustainable farming protecting forests and communities.
- ECOCERT COSMOS – For organic and environmentally friendly cosmetics.
- Vegan Certifications – By organizations like Vegan Society (UK) or Vege Project Japan.
Check the Ingredients
Just because something says “natural” or “eco-friendly” doesn’t mean all its ingredients are. Choose products with fewer, recognizable ingredients.
Sustainable Skincare Brands that You Can Buy in Japan
amritara
Highlights
- Incorporates fair trade and environmentally conscious materials
- Uses pesticide-free and chemical-free ingredients from natural farming
- Collaborates with domestic contract farmers, including its own farm in Kyushu
- Over 80% of cosmetic ingredients are organic or wild-sourced
amritara is a Tokyo-based organic brand guided by the philosophy: “Only what’s necessary.” The brand offers cosmetics, foods, and supplements that are gentle on both the skin and the Earth. It sources pesticide- and chemical-free plants mainly from its own farm in Kyushu and contracted farms across Japan. amritara values transparency in sourcing and cultivation, aiming to unite beauty with sustainability.
The brand uses fair trade shea butter and moringa oil in its development process, contributing to equitable trade with developing countries. It also actively adopts low-impact materials such as biomass plastic, glass, FSC-certified paper, and “stone paper” made from limestone.
Through its “AmuRecycle” project, amritara collects and recycles used containers, promoting an “organic way of life” that connects people and nature through its products.
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WELEDA
Highlights
- Protects biodiversity across ~248 km² of organic farmland
- Grows raw ingredients using biodynamic farming
- Designs packaging for upcycling and reuse
- Sources raw materials via fair trade and provides educational support
- Certified by B Corp, NATRUE, UEBT, and other global standards
Founded in 1921 in Switzerland, Weleda is a pioneer in organic cosmetics with a philosophy rooted in harmony between humans and nature. It produces skincare and body care products using plants cultivated through biodynamic organic farming—without synthetic fertilizers or pesticides. Its commitment to biodiversity extends to its vast 248 km² of organic land and medicinal gardens
Weleda uses only 100% natural ingredients, with no synthetic preservatives, and packages its products using sustainable designs that balance quality with environmental impact. Through its in-store recycling program, it promotes upcycling and waste reduction.
It also builds long-term partnerships with farmers under fair labor conditions, supporting education and contributing to stable sourcing and community development worldwide. Globally recognized certifications reflect Weleda’s dedication not only to product quality but also to social and environmental responsibility.
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chant a charm
Highlights
- Uses ingredients grown on its own farm in Akeno, Hokuto City, Yamanashi Prefecture
- Offers 100% natural, organic skincare
- Free from petrochemicals and synthetic ingredients; environmentally conscious production, packaging, and recycling
chant a charm is an organic skincare brand that emphasizes natural origins. It uses botanical ingredients grown on its own farm in Hokuto City, Yamanashi Prefecture—a land rich in sun and surrounded by Mt. Fuji and Mt. Yatsugatake. These carefully nurtured plants bring gentle care to both skin and mind.
The brand avoids all petrochemical ingredients like preservatives, synthetic polymers, and UV absorbers. Its formulas incorporate essential oils and plant-based oils to promote harmony with nature and kindness to the skin.
Production takes place in a carbon-neutral facility powered by renewable energy. Packaging uses FSC-certified paper and biomass PET, and the brand partners with TerraCycle for a recycling program. Under the message “Truly good for your skin. Truly care for yourself,” chant a charm seeks to offer everyday magic to support natural beauty—even on your busiest days.
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NEMOHAMO
Highlights
- Uses plants grown in the natural environment of Fukuoka
- 100% natural ingredients; production powered entirely by renewable energy
- Promotes recycling, composting, and local sourcing
NEMOHAMO is an organic brand from Kyoto’s Good Nature Station that embraces the power of whole plants. Its factory in Ashiya Town, Fukuoka, is surrounded by rich countryside and satoyama woodlands, part of which are used as cultivated farmland. Plants are grown without pesticides or synthetic fertilizers and harvested carefully by hand.
The production process uses a unique method that maximizes plant potency by harvesting in-season and avoiding wastewater or emissions. The brand runs entirely on renewable energy and returns plant residue as compost to the local environment—creating a sustainable production cycle.
Packaging materials are chosen to reduce CO₂ emissions during disposal, and a recycling program for empty containers is in place. NEMOHAMO also prioritizes local ingredients like Japanese ginseng and kuromoji essential oil, supporting the regional economy.
With the motto “Back to your natural self through nature,” NEMOHAMO helps you achieve radiant skin and a balanced life by harnessing the power of the whole plant.
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Skincare that is Kind to You and the Earth
Skincare isn’t essential for survival, but it is an important part of self-care. Choosing sustainable products with low environmental and human impact can support a better future. Let’s be mindful of what we use and aim for smarter, more responsible skincare.
