Science Empowers Sustainability

For each product conception, the environmental impact in terms of resources depletion, water use, or climate change is considered in each of our decision processes. This is how we meet consumers’ expectations for effective and safe formulas (for the people and taking into consideration the environment).

When science sustains ingredient innovation and responsibility

L’Oréal Paris is increasingly developing products drawing on innovations that have come about from nature-inspired sciences. For each L’Oréal Paris product, the chosen ingredients, as well as the formulation processes, are all selected with the goal of optimizing both efficacy and impact on the planet.

For example, Hyaluronic Acid, used in several L’Oréal Paris products, is produced using bio-fermentation of lactic bacteria fed with local cereals and a low impact extraction process.

In a bid to develop formulas with no compromise between efficacy, safety and environmental responsibility, we are committed to developing more responsible processes by sustainably industrializing high-performance ingredients.

When Science sustains efficacy with safety

Safety is non-negotiable: each formula is subjected to a careful selection of actives and ingredients, perfectly combined and dosed to ensure maximum efficacy with safety. Both for people and the environment. On one hand, Group’s environmental testing platform assesses raw materials, including their ecotoxicity, before they are used in any product. On the other hand, before going through clinical safety tests, our ingredients and formulas are also evaluated by a team of 100 safety experts following a 5-step assessment. After the launch, we record any side effects or misusage. These rigorous assessments ensure our products are safe for both people and the planet.

In 1989, L’Oréal created Episkin, a giant step for no animal testing. This reconstructed skin technology, by mimicking human skin and application conditions, predicts ingredients and formula safety and has provided a viable alternative to animal testing for over 30 years.

 

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Optimizing our packaging

L’Oréal Paris is accelerating its transition to circular economy by optimizing its packaging. The priority is to reduce the overall amount of packaging, replace any materials used with better alternatives, and improve recyclability of our packaging. Examples include introducing innovative new formats to cut back on plastic and replacing virgin plastic with recycled or biobased materials.

    • REDUCE
      We reduce the weight and size of packaging. We also seek alternatives to single-use packaging, proposing not only rechargeable and refillable systems but also broader reusable packaging solutions.
    • REPLACE
      We replace certain materials with less impactful alternatives. We promote a more circular economy including the increased use of post-consumer recycled (PCR) materials.
    • RECYCLE
       
      We act to improve the recyclability of our packaging and contributing to a more circular economy. We are also innovating to ensure every aspect of our packaging can be recycled at waste sorting facilities and, we encourage consumers to recycle.