When we think of green beauty, it’s not often that we think of big-name brands. Well, times are certainly changing. With its Green Beauty Initiative, Garnier is taking the crucial step of improving the beauty products we know, love and continue to discover all while moving toward a more eco-friendly future.

Recently, Garnier marked a significant milestone in its commitment to sustainability. The brand officially received the stamp of approval from Cruelty Free International under the Leaping Bunny program, making it one of the largest global brands to ensure that its entire supply chain is 100 percent cruelty-free from start to finish.

“Consumers are increasingly changing their behaviour and becoming more aware of the need to  preserve their health, protect the environment and save natural resources for future generations,” says Aurélie Weinling, Garnier’s Global Sustainability and Scientific Director. That means shifting from a linear “make, take and dispose” approach to working with natural resources to a more circular, regenerative mode of production.

So, what does it mean to work in a circular model?

Every element of production is considered, from place to package. It signifies a commitment to using recycled and bio-based materials, eliminating the use of virgin plastics via high-quality recycling streams, reducing the weight and size of packaging and moving toward plastic-free alternatives and greener facilities.

Take, for instance, Garnier’s Montreal-based factory and distribution centre, which is certified carboneutral and produces over 200 products, including the vegan, certified-cruelty-free Fructis Sleek & Shine range. From mane-strengthening shampoos and conditioners to a strand-smoothing in-shower styler, these efficacious hair heroes contain sustainably sourced argan oil to provide ultimate frizz control and glass-like shine, all while smelling like a total treat.

Another star product we can’t get enough of? The new Micellar Cleansing Eco-Pads, which last for up to 1,000 washes. The pillow-soft pads are incredibly gentle on the skin, dissolve makeup and grime with ease and eliminate the need for single-use pads. It’s a small step, but it signals a significant shift towards a greener planet.