the unwash review
If there’s one thing we know for sure it’s that there’s way too much plastic in the beauty industry. When we think of zero-plastic makeup, thoughts of minimalist routines and skin-like finishes come to mind. Submission Beauty is a completely plastic-free beauty brand that embraces maximalism with its biodegradable glitter. Traditional glitter products are not completely body safe and do not completely disintegrate even years after disposal. Submission Beauty is changing this by making a body-safe, plastic-free, biodegradable, luxury glitter.
Submission’s specialty is biodegradable glitter made from eucalyptus cellulose derived from trees. Their glitter is made using Bioglitter which has a certification for freshwater biodegradability making it biodegrade quickly and safely in natural environments. Submission Beauty is cruelty-free, GMO-free, and allergen-free and is safe for use around the lips and eyes. The glitter itself is plastic-free and biodegradable but the brand also only uses glass packaging to make for easier recyclability or repurposing.
“I really want to elevate sustainable brands because I couldn’t find one that spoke to my aesthetic and style while still doing good for our bodies and environment. I wanted Submission to be something that looks beautiful but, at the same time, you are buying into a community and part of something that actually makes a difference.” – Zenia Jaeger, Submission Beauty Founder
The Los Angeles-based brand launched in 2022 and has grabbed mainstream attention with collaborations with Scandinavian style powerhouse, Ganni. With less than three years in business, the brand has also opened a flagship store in LA’s Silver Lake neighborhood. Submission has gained a popular following with its transparent and forthcoming approach to discussing sustainability. The brand doesn’t shy away from putting its values on display with slogans including ‘plastic is poison’ and ‘glitter not litter’.
When Submission Beauty founder Zenia Jaeger moved from Denmark to the United States she was interested in the differences in cosmetic regulations and the alarming amount of greenwashing in the beauty industry which compelled her to make a change. Armed with the basic notion that plastic is both bad for us and the environment, Submission Beauty allows for self-expression through a lens of mindfulness. Plastic-free brands such as Submission Beauty are setting the standard for creating meaningful change around the lifecycle of products.
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Kjaer Weis
Kjaer Weis intertwines sustainability and luxury beauty in a way that creates meaningful industry change. The brand has been an innovator for modern makeup before it was deemed an industry necessity to create actionable change in terms of product waste. Their products are a photo shoot and runway staple for a reason, giving a ‘your skin but better’ glow with all of their products.
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TooD Beauty
TooD Beauty is about inclusivity, embracing yourself, and diversity – a mission we can get behind. You might be familiar with this brand because of its biodegradable glitter collection, but there is so much more that TooD has to offer. The landscape of the makeup industry is constantly changing, but TooD is working on standing the test of time by encouraging its consumers to join them on the path of ‘radical self-acceptance.’ The brand embraces a fun and funky aesthetic that lets your true self shine both on the inside and outside.
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Noto Botanics
Noto Botanics is an inclusive skincare and beauty brand that is focused on making an impact, especially in the LGBTQIA+ community. The brand is multi-use for an array of skincare needs with its minimalist, streamlined product line. Their line includes moisturizers, serums, cleansers, and lip and cheek tints. Noto Botanics is just as much about its products as they are about its mission. The brand’s DNA is rooted in inclusivity, community, and giving back.
