Zero Waste, Natural Makeup: Why Aleph Beauty Is My Trusted Sustainable Cosmetics Choice
Let’s discuss the term intelligent beauty. It’s an ethos that describes luxury combining with nature, beauty merging with the environment, and glamour partnering with sustainability. This is the Aleph ethos: intelligent beauty underpins everything they do.
I’ve known founder, Emma, since mid 2017. We met on a Good Magazine photoshoot. We chatted so much during the shoot, that we forgot we were working; Emma and I stayed in touch. From the get go, I knew she was a woman who had an agenda to change the beauty industry for good.
When Emma hinted her own natural makeup range, I followed closely to see it evolve… now Aleph is born: I’m beyond impressed.
Aleph is built on a few core values:
Cruelty Free
Vegan
Toxin Free
GMO Free
Child Labour Free
Sustainable Packaging
Aleph has launched with three key products:
~ Concealer/Foundation ~ Cheek/Lip Tint ~ Brush ~
I’m not a super girly makeup girl. I wear makeup approximately 3-4 times a week, and when I say makeup: I mean a dash of foundation or BB creme, and some mascara. It’s rare you’ll find me with anything extra. I’ve been using the three Aleph products for the past 10 days, during my travels in Australia. The first time I tried them, was at Brisbane airport whilst boarding a plane to Cairns. I needed a quick pick me up after being up at 3:30am, and hardly having time to wash my face, let alone put makeup on.
This is what I noticed when first using Aleph products:
The pots were small and sat easily in my handbag so I could whip them out before boarding my second plane
I wasn’t worried about them breaking open and getting everywhere, because of the strong glass the products come in
The concealer breezed onto my face with the brush
The brush felt so good I wanted to keep applying it, just for the feels
The cheek/lip tint was super strong, so I only needed a touch
The colour was perfect for both my cheeks AND lips
It took 3-5 minutes
I was all poised and ready to give Emma some constructive feedback, to help with the fine tuning, but the only thing I had was that the words on the bottom sticker which state the name of the product, comes off quickly. That’s it (and that’s a usual phenomenon with cruelty free makeup and hot climates!).
From then onwards, I’ve used the concealer for little touch ups during the day, on it’s own when I’m lazy (but it really does the trick!), or paired with a full foundation for a heavier look.
You may be thinking that I’m easily pleased when it comes to makeup, because I’m not an avid makeup wearer. Ahhh, but on the contrary: what I wear really matters. I don’t have the time or inclination to carry a bag full of products on my travels, or even store it in my cupboards (#minimalism).
The makeup I own is important to me.
Aleph will be a constant in my makeup cupboard.
On a final note, before I head off to apply my concealer before an evening event, I totally admire the processes Aleph have in place for colour testing, so products are not wasted.
Potential customers are able to have a ‘colour consult’ with Emma herself! Plus, when you order a product, you’re sent both a sample size of that colour, plus an extra of another colour of your choice. This ensures you do not have to open a full product that will go to waste. Test the sample size first, and if it’s not for you, have it replaced with the right colour, free of charge.
Use code ETHICALLY7HJ3 for 10% off.
Find your Aleph colours here.
What is natural makeup?
Natural makeup is made with ingredients derived from nature like plant oils, minerals, and botanical extracts, rather than synthetic chemicals or artificial fragrances. It's often free from parabens, phthalates, and other harsh additives that can irritate skin. Many natural makeup brands also prioritise sustainability and ethical sourcing, making them a better choice for both people and planet. Natural doesn't always mean organic or vegan, so it's good to check the full label.
How can I responsibly dispose of zero waste makeup packaging?
Zero waste makeup is designed to create as little landfill waste as possible, often using compostable, refillable, or fully recyclable packaging. Look for brands that offer refill stations or take-back programs. Glass jars and aluminium tins can usually go in household recycling (unless you can reuse them around the house for other purposes), and cardboard tubes are often compostable. The key is to clean out any leftover product first and follow your local council’s recycling guidelines.
Is vegan makeup also cruelty-free?
Not always. Vegan makeup means the product contains no animal-derived ingredients, but it doesn’t guarantee that the product hasn’t been tested on animals. For truly ethical choices, look for products that are both vegan and cruelty free makeup. Certifications like Leaping Bunny or PETA can help. The best combo is makeup that’s good for animals, people, and the planet.
What is zero waste makeup?
Zero waste makeup refers to beauty products that aim to eliminate single-use packaging and reduce environmental impact. These products often come in compostable, refillable, or plastic-free containers, and are made by brands committed to sustainable practices. From bamboo mascara tubes to solid blush bars, zero waste makeup is about thoughtful consumption and circular design. It's perfect for those who want to align their beauty routines with low-impact living.
As a rule, I only work with brands I love, use, and can whole heartedly back. This is a sponsored blog (I can't pay my electricity bill with free natural beauty products), but 100% my own words, photos, and opinion.