GITNUXREPORT 2025

Sustainability In The Cosmetic Industry Statistics

Consumers demand eco-friendly, sustainable, transparent cosmetics, boosting industry growth.

Jannik Linder

Co-Founder of Gitnux, specialized in content and tech since 2016.

First published: April 29, 2025

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Statistic 1

Over 60% of consumers are willing to pay more for sustainable beauty products

Statistic 2

65% of consumers check for sustainability labels before purchasing cosmetic products

Statistic 3

Over 80% of consumers are willing to pay more for products with environmentally friendly packaging

Statistic 4

85% of millennials and Gen Z consumers prioritize eco-friendly packaging when choosing beauty products

Statistic 5

The global cosmetics market is expected to reach $75.8 billion by 2027, with sustainability being a key growth driver

Statistic 6

The global organic skincare market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 10.2% from 2021 to 2028

Statistic 7

The use of sustainable packaging in cosmetics has increased by 45% over the last five years

Statistic 8

The organic personal care market size was valued at $13.33 billion in 2020 and is projected to grow significantly

Statistic 9

Vegan and cruelty-free cosmetics constitute around 20% of the total beauty market, and this segment is growing fast

Statistic 10

Approximately 85% of consumers want to see companies act more sustainably

Statistic 11

The demand for refillable packaging options in cosmetics increased by 35% between 2019 and 2022

Statistic 12

The share of natural and organic ingredients used in cosmetic formulations has increased from 35% in 2015 to over 60% in 2023

Statistic 13

35% of consumers are willing to switch to brands with better sustainability ratings

Statistic 14

Certification labels like USDA Organic, Leaping Bunny, and Rainforest Alliance have seen a 30% increase in usage among top cosmetic brands over the past five years

Statistic 15

The demand for mineral-based, natural makeup products is on the rise, accounting for 35% of new product launches in the last year

Statistic 16

Sustainability-focused beauty brands have reported a 30% increase in consumer engagement in the last two years

Statistic 17

58% of consumers prefer brands with a declared sustainability mission

Statistic 18

The global demand for sustainable beauty products grew by 12% in 2022, outpacing traditional products

Statistic 19

The global market for sustainably sourced ingredients in cosmetics is projected to reach $6.4 billion by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 8.5%

Statistic 20

73% of consumers prefer brands that demonstrate environmental responsibility

Statistic 21

40% of cosmetic brands have committed to using 100% recyclable packaging by 2025

Statistic 22

The carbon footprint of a typical cosmetic product can be reduced by 30% through sustainable sourcing and packaging

Statistic 23

55% of consumers globally are motivated to buy from brands that are environmentally friendly

Statistic 24

The amount of plastic used in packaging for cosmetics has increased by 25% over the past decade, despite calls for more sustainable options

Statistic 25

Eco-conscious formulations account for nearly 15% of new launches in the cosmetic industry, rising rapidly

Statistic 26

70% of consumers prefer products with biodegradable ingredients

Statistic 27

The cosmetics industry's water usage has decreased by 10% over the last five years due to more sustainable practices

Statistic 28

50% of beauty brands have sustainability incorporated into their corporate strategy

Statistic 29

80% of consumers are more loyal to brands that promote sustainability practices

Statistic 30

45% of consumers feel more positive about brands that actively support environmental and social causes

Statistic 31

Companies focusing on sustainability see an average revenue increase of 10% compared to less sustainable competitors

Statistic 32

Recycled ocean plastics are being used in approximately 15% of new cosmetic packaging designs

Statistic 33

47% of consumers prefer purchasing from brands with transparent supply chains

Statistic 34

Sustainable ingredients, such as plant-based oils and natural extracts, are now used in over 50% of new cosmetic products worldwide

Statistic 35

68% of consumers believe that environmental impact should be considered in the product's lifecycle from sourcing to disposal

Statistic 36

The use of biodegradable glitter in cosmetics increased by 25% in the last three years, as consumers seek eco-friendly alternatives

Statistic 37

54% of cosmetic brands have sustainability targets aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals

Statistic 38

The use of refillable cosmetic packaging has reduced waste by an estimated 20,000 tons annually globally

Statistic 39

60% of cosmetics companies have invested in sustainability training for their staff to promote eco-friendly practices

Statistic 40

78% of consumers believe brands should be more transparent about their environmental impact

Statistic 41

Sustainability-driven product innovations in cosmetics increased by 50% in the past three years, according to industry reports

Statistic 42

Eco-conscious consumers are 2.5 times more likely to support brands with sustainable certifications than those without

Statistic 43

The percentage of brands reporting sustainable sourcing practices has increased from 22% in 2015 to over 55% in 2023

Statistic 44

Nearly 50% of consumers are influenced by a product’s environmental impact when making purchasing decisions

Statistic 45

The recycled content in cosmetic packaging increased by 35% between 2018 and 2022

Statistic 46

52% of consumers would choose brands with sustainable packaging over conventional options

Statistic 47

70% of cosmetic companies have set sustainability goals for the next five years

Statistic 48

The adoption of biodegradable ingredients in cosmetics is projected to grow at a CAGR of 12% through 2025

Statistic 49

65% of new cosmetic products launched in 2022 included sustainable ingredients or packaging

Statistic 50

90% of cosmetics companies are now monitoring their environmental impact, representing an increase from 65% in 2018

Statistic 51

Nearly 1 million tons of packaging waste from cosmetics are generated annually worldwide, highlighting the critical need for sustainable solutions

Statistic 52

The number of cruelty-free certifications in cosmetics increased by 40% over the past five years, indicating rising consumer demand

Statistic 53

The average shelf life of sustainable cosmetics is 2 years longer than conventional products, due to better ingredient preservation

Statistic 54

72% of consumers read ingredient lists for sustainability claims, showing increased transparency awareness

Statistic 55

The use of refill stations in cosmetics stores has increased by 55% over the past three years, encouraging reuse and reducing waste

Statistic 56

69% of cosmetic brands plan to expand their sustainable product lines by 2025, indicating a significant industry shift

Statistic 57

The recycled content in cosmetic packaging increased by 45% in the last five years, driven by consumer demand for sustainability

Statistic 58

38% of cosmetic brands are actively reducing their carbon emissions as part of sustainability initiatives

Statistic 59

The adoption of greener manufacturing processes in cosmetics increased by 50% over the past three years, reducing energy consumption and emissions

Statistic 60

80% of consumers are aware of the environmental footprint of their beauty products, highlighting the importance of transparency

Statistic 61

Synthetic ingredients are being replaced by sustainable alternatives in 65% of new cosmetic formulas, driven by consumer demand

Statistic 62

Innovative biodegradable packaging materials for cosmetics have seen a 60% increase in research and development investments over the last four years, signaling industry commitment

Statistic 63

70% of consumers believe brands should reduce their ecological footprint throughout their supply chain, from raw material sourcing to delivery

Statistic 64

There has been a 28% increase in the number of cosmetic companies reporting on sustainability in their annual reports since 2019, illustrating greater transparency

Statistic 65

63% of consumers feel more connected to brands that emphasize environmental responsibility

Statistic 66

Over 50% of cosmetic brands have implemented measures to reduce water usage in their manufacturing processes, decreasing water consumption significantly

Statistic 67

The use of renewable energy sources in cosmetic manufacturing facilities increased by 55% from 2018 to 2023, reducing carbon emissions

Statistic 68

75% of consumers worldwide are willing to make lifestyle changes to support sustainable beauty initiatives, indicating high consumer commitment

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Sources

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Key Highlights

The global cosmetics market is expected to reach $75.8 billion by 2027, with sustainability being a key growth driver
73% of consumers prefer brands that demonstrate environmental responsibility
Over 60% of consumers are willing to pay more for sustainable beauty products
The use of sustainable packaging in cosmetics has increased by 45% over the last five years
40% of cosmetic brands have committed to using 100% recyclable packaging by 2025
The organic personal care market size was valued at $13.33 billion in 2020 and is projected to grow significantly
65% of consumers check for sustainability labels before purchasing cosmetic products
Vegan and cruelty-free cosmetics constitute around 20% of the total beauty market, and this segment is growing fast
The carbon footprint of a typical cosmetic product can be reduced by 30% through sustainable sourcing and packaging
55% of consumers globally are motivated to buy from brands that are environmentally friendly
Approximately 85% of consumers want to see companies act more sustainably
The amount of plastic used in packaging for cosmetics has increased by 25% over the past decade, despite calls for more sustainable options
Eco-conscious formulations account for nearly 15% of new launches in the cosmetic industry, rising rapidly

As the global cosmetics industry approaches a staggering $75.8 billion by 2027, a profound shift toward sustainability is driving consumer preferences, innovation, and corporate responsibility in shaping a greener future for beauty.

Consumer Preferences

Over 60% of consumers are willing to pay more for sustainable beauty products
65% of consumers check for sustainability labels before purchasing cosmetic products
Over 80% of consumers are willing to pay more for products with environmentally friendly packaging
85% of millennials and Gen Z consumers prioritize eco-friendly packaging when choosing beauty products

Consumer Preferences Interpretation

These statistics reveal that today's consumers are not only beauty aficionados but also eco-conscious champions, demanding sustainability at every glamorous step—making it clear that in the world of cosmetics, green is the new black.

Industry Growth and Market Dynamics

The global cosmetics market is expected to reach $75.8 billion by 2027, with sustainability being a key growth driver
The global organic skincare market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 10.2% from 2021 to 2028

Industry Growth and Market Dynamics Interpretation

As the beauty industry blooms toward a $75.8 billion horizon by 2027, sustainability isn't just a trend—it's the moisturizer fueling its relentless growth, with organic skincare leading the charge at a robust 10.2% CAGR.

Market Trends and Consumer Preferences

The use of sustainable packaging in cosmetics has increased by 45% over the last five years
The organic personal care market size was valued at $13.33 billion in 2020 and is projected to grow significantly
Vegan and cruelty-free cosmetics constitute around 20% of the total beauty market, and this segment is growing fast
Approximately 85% of consumers want to see companies act more sustainably
The demand for refillable packaging options in cosmetics increased by 35% between 2019 and 2022
The share of natural and organic ingredients used in cosmetic formulations has increased from 35% in 2015 to over 60% in 2023
35% of consumers are willing to switch to brands with better sustainability ratings
Certification labels like USDA Organic, Leaping Bunny, and Rainforest Alliance have seen a 30% increase in usage among top cosmetic brands over the past five years
The demand for mineral-based, natural makeup products is on the rise, accounting for 35% of new product launches in the last year
Sustainability-focused beauty brands have reported a 30% increase in consumer engagement in the last two years
58% of consumers prefer brands with a declared sustainability mission
The global demand for sustainable beauty products grew by 12% in 2022, outpacing traditional products
The global market for sustainably sourced ingredients in cosmetics is projected to reach $6.4 billion by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 8.5%

Market Trends and Consumer Preferences Interpretation

With sustainability sprouting like organic ingredients and refillable packaging, the cosmetics industry’s shift from vanity to virtue is not just a trend but a compelling mandate, as nearly 85% of consumers demand brands do better—making green beauty not just good for the planet, but a savvy business move.

Sustainability and Ethical Practices

73% of consumers prefer brands that demonstrate environmental responsibility
40% of cosmetic brands have committed to using 100% recyclable packaging by 2025
The carbon footprint of a typical cosmetic product can be reduced by 30% through sustainable sourcing and packaging
55% of consumers globally are motivated to buy from brands that are environmentally friendly
The amount of plastic used in packaging for cosmetics has increased by 25% over the past decade, despite calls for more sustainable options
Eco-conscious formulations account for nearly 15% of new launches in the cosmetic industry, rising rapidly
70% of consumers prefer products with biodegradable ingredients
The cosmetics industry's water usage has decreased by 10% over the last five years due to more sustainable practices
50% of beauty brands have sustainability incorporated into their corporate strategy
80% of consumers are more loyal to brands that promote sustainability practices
45% of consumers feel more positive about brands that actively support environmental and social causes
Companies focusing on sustainability see an average revenue increase of 10% compared to less sustainable competitors
Recycled ocean plastics are being used in approximately 15% of new cosmetic packaging designs
47% of consumers prefer purchasing from brands with transparent supply chains
Sustainable ingredients, such as plant-based oils and natural extracts, are now used in over 50% of new cosmetic products worldwide
68% of consumers believe that environmental impact should be considered in the product's lifecycle from sourcing to disposal
The use of biodegradable glitter in cosmetics increased by 25% in the last three years, as consumers seek eco-friendly alternatives
54% of cosmetic brands have sustainability targets aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals
The use of refillable cosmetic packaging has reduced waste by an estimated 20,000 tons annually globally
60% of cosmetics companies have invested in sustainability training for their staff to promote eco-friendly practices
78% of consumers believe brands should be more transparent about their environmental impact
Sustainability-driven product innovations in cosmetics increased by 50% in the past three years, according to industry reports
Eco-conscious consumers are 2.5 times more likely to support brands with sustainable certifications than those without
The percentage of brands reporting sustainable sourcing practices has increased from 22% in 2015 to over 55% in 2023
Nearly 50% of consumers are influenced by a product’s environmental impact when making purchasing decisions
The recycled content in cosmetic packaging increased by 35% between 2018 and 2022
52% of consumers would choose brands with sustainable packaging over conventional options
70% of cosmetic companies have set sustainability goals for the next five years
The adoption of biodegradable ingredients in cosmetics is projected to grow at a CAGR of 12% through 2025
65% of new cosmetic products launched in 2022 included sustainable ingredients or packaging
90% of cosmetics companies are now monitoring their environmental impact, representing an increase from 65% in 2018
Nearly 1 million tons of packaging waste from cosmetics are generated annually worldwide, highlighting the critical need for sustainable solutions
The number of cruelty-free certifications in cosmetics increased by 40% over the past five years, indicating rising consumer demand
The average shelf life of sustainable cosmetics is 2 years longer than conventional products, due to better ingredient preservation
72% of consumers read ingredient lists for sustainability claims, showing increased transparency awareness
The use of refill stations in cosmetics stores has increased by 55% over the past three years, encouraging reuse and reducing waste
69% of cosmetic brands plan to expand their sustainable product lines by 2025, indicating a significant industry shift
The recycled content in cosmetic packaging increased by 45% in the last five years, driven by consumer demand for sustainability
38% of cosmetic brands are actively reducing their carbon emissions as part of sustainability initiatives
The adoption of greener manufacturing processes in cosmetics increased by 50% over the past three years, reducing energy consumption and emissions
80% of consumers are aware of the environmental footprint of their beauty products, highlighting the importance of transparency
Synthetic ingredients are being replaced by sustainable alternatives in 65% of new cosmetic formulas, driven by consumer demand
Innovative biodegradable packaging materials for cosmetics have seen a 60% increase in research and development investments over the last four years, signaling industry commitment
70% of consumers believe brands should reduce their ecological footprint throughout their supply chain, from raw material sourcing to delivery
There has been a 28% increase in the number of cosmetic companies reporting on sustainability in their annual reports since 2019, illustrating greater transparency
63% of consumers feel more connected to brands that emphasize environmental responsibility
Over 50% of cosmetic brands have implemented measures to reduce water usage in their manufacturing processes, decreasing water consumption significantly
The use of renewable energy sources in cosmetic manufacturing facilities increased by 55% from 2018 to 2023, reducing carbon emissions
75% of consumers worldwide are willing to make lifestyle changes to support sustainable beauty initiatives, indicating high consumer commitment

Sustainability and Ethical Practices Interpretation

Despite an industry soaring towards sustainability—boasting a 50% surge in eco-friendly formulations and a 60% boost in renewable energy use—it's ironic that plastic packaging has stubbornly increased by 25% over a decade, proving that the path to truly green cosmetics remains as transparent and complex as a highlighter in a recyclable package.