Sustainability has long stopped being a niche topic in cosmetics: according to recent surveys, over 70% of buyers look at the packaging when choosing make-up, and the market for natural and sustainable cosmetics in Germany grows every year. At the same time, hardly any term is more overused. So here is, concretely, what we mean by sustainable make-up – and what we do not.
The problem: packaging that outlives the product
A compact powder is empty after three to six months. Its plastic case with mirror, hinge and magnet lasts for decades – in landfill. Add up foundation, powder, blush and eyeshadow and one user easily throws away a dozen such shells a year. This is exactly where our concept starts.
Bamboo instead of plastic
Bamboo grows up to one metre a day, needs no pesticides and binds CO₂ while it grows. Our compact powders, eyeshadow palettes and brush handles are made of bamboo that is reused rather than thrown away. The bamboo eyeshadow DUO palette and the PRO palette are built so you can swap individual colours without replacing the palette.
How our refill system works
You buy the bamboo case once. After that you only order the refill:
- INCEPTION compact powder refill – the powder cake is inserted into the existing bamboo case.
- INCEPTION loose powder refill – refill instead of rebuy.
- INCEPTION eyeshadow refill – single pans for the DUO and PRO palettes.
That saves not only packaging but money: refills are cheaper than the first purchase because you do not pay for the case again.
Sustainable also means: long-lasting
The most sustainable product is the one you never have to replace. Our brushes with bamboo handles and high-quality fibres last many years with proper care. And our foundation is so concentrated that one bottle lasts around six months of daily use.
What we deliberately do not claim
We do not call our make-up "natural cosmetics". Our formulations are professional, dermatologically tested recipes for coverage and wear – what is sustainable about us is the packaging, the refill principle and the longevity, not a seal on the front. Honesty is part of sustainability for us.
Three steps towards less cosmetic waste
- Buy cases once and refill them – you will find all refill products under Face and Eyes.
- Invest in a few good brushes instead of many cheap ones.
- Use products up before buying new – and dispose of empty refills with household waste; the bamboo case stays.
Read more about our origins, our development in Germany and the bamboo principle on our page About us.