both use all natural farm-grown or wild-harvested ingredients from across the bucolic landscapes of Vermont and Wyoming, respectively. But this seemingly benevolent practice can pose its own potential environmental concerns: The problem lies in that there are only a finite amount of resources in these areas, and the environmental impact of sourcing these raw materials has forced many brands to seek alternatives.
"Upcycling allows us to take the dried seed and turn it into a nutrient-rich oil, full of benefits, including high antioxidants, vitamin E and fatty acids to help protect the skin and skin barrier," says Marcos. "The blueberry seed oil is obtained by utilizing cold press technology, so heat is not introduced to best preserve ingredient potency."
"I think upcycled ingredients really align with what I have heard referred to as 'responsible beauty,' looking deeper into the supply chain at an ingredient's sourcing and sustainability profile, in addition to safety," says Dobos. Beyond an altruistic desire to put a dent in the beauty industry's waste problem, many brands have also found that turning to upcycled ingredients allows them to deliver formulas that are highly effective and multi-beneficial. Take skin-care brand , for example. It was founded by three sisters who saw opportunity in the plum kernels that had previously gone to waste on their family farm.
Foundation and pillar making