Lancôme‘s Commitment to Sustainability and Empowerment: A Holistic Approach to Beauty
Lancôme, a renowned name in the beauty industry, is redefining its mission by intertwining aesthetics with sustainability and social responsibility. The brand’s philosophy extends beyond enhancing physical beauty; it aims to create a more beautiful world through various initiatives that prioritize the well-being of people and the planet.
A Vision for a Sustainable Future
In 2021, Lancôme launched its first global sustainability initiative, “Caring Together for a Happier Tomorrow.” This program emphasizes biodiversity, inclusion, and environmental stewardship, aligning with L’Oréal‘s broader commitment to sustainability. The initiative reflects a growing awareness in the beauty industry about the need for eco-friendly practices and responsible sourcing.
Françoise Lehmann, the former global brand president, articulated the brand’s ethos: “Care and happiness are in the DNA of the brand.” This sentiment underscores Lancôme’s dedication to not only producing high-quality beauty products but also ensuring that these products contribute positively to the environment and society.
Protecting Biodiversity and Reducing Environmental Impact
Lancôme’s sustainability program is multifaceted, focusing on protecting biodiversity through sustainable agricultural practices, eco-conscious formulations, and innovative packaging solutions. The brand employs green science and biotechnology to minimize its environmental footprint across its entire value chain.
As of now, 59% of Lancôme’s ingredients are biosourced or derived from circular processes. Notably, 78% of its skincare ingredients and 93% of its fragrance ingredients are biodegradable. This commitment to sustainability is evident in the brand’s packaging strategies, which prioritize refillable formats and the use of recycled materials.
In a significant move, Lancôme identified 20 products with the highest environmental impact six years ago and redesigned them by 2023. All new products are now eco-designed, reflecting a proactive approach to sustainability.
The #JoinTheRefillMovement Initiative
In June 2023, Lancôme participated in L’Oréal’s #JoinTheRefillMovement, coinciding with World Refill Day. This initiative aims to raise awareness about the benefits of refillable products. For instance, purchasing a 100-ml refill of La vie est belle Elixir results in substantial savings in terms of materials: 73% less glass, 66% less plastic, and 61% less cardboard compared to buying two 50-ml bottles.
This initiative has proven successful, with La vie est belle Eau de Parfum emerging as the top-ranking women’s refillable perfume in the U.S., according to Circana. Lancôme also leads the market in refillable skincare products, demonstrating the brand’s influence in promoting sustainable beauty practices.
Empowering Women Through Education
Lancôme’s commitment to social responsibility is exemplified through its “Write Your Future” initiative, which focuses on empowering women through education and entrepreneurship. Launched in the U.S. in 2019 in partnership with ProLiteracy, the program aims to combat inequality by providing women with access to literacy resources, mentoring, and scholarships.
In 2022, Lancôme collaborated with the ACT-SO Youth Program, a division of the NAACP, awarding $10,000 scholarships to 40 college-bound Black women annually. Since its inception, Write Your Future has expanded to 23 countries, donating over 6 million euros to NGOs and directly supporting more than 265,000 women.
Philanthropic Efforts and Community Support
Lancôme’s philanthropic endeavors extend beyond education. The brand has raised $5.3 million for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, funding over 3,600 chemotherapy rounds and contributing to the World Health Organization’s pediatric cancer initiative. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Lancôme launched the Lancôme Cares initiative, distributing over 200,000 care packs to healthcare workers in 23 countries.
These efforts reflect a broader trend in the beauty industry, where brands are increasingly recognizing their role in addressing social issues and contributing to community well-being.
Inclusive Beauty Technology: The Hapta Device
In a groundbreaking move, Lancôme unveiled the Hapta device at CES 2023, designed to enhance beauty accessibility for individuals with limited fine-motor skills. Approximately 50 million people globally face challenges in makeup application due to disabilities. The Hapta device, an ultra-precise computerized handheld applicator, aims to empower these individuals by providing them with the tools to express their beauty confidently.
Developed in collaboration with Verily, the device features real-time motion stabilization and an ergonomic design. Initially piloted as a lipstick applicator, it is set to expand into other makeup applications. The Hapta device has garnered significant attention, being recognized as one of Time Magazine’s best inventions of 2023.
Conclusion: A Holistic Approach to Beauty
Lancôme’s initiatives reflect a comprehensive approach to beauty that encompasses sustainability, social responsibility, and inclusivity. By prioritizing eco-friendly practices, empowering women, and developing innovative technologies, the brand is setting a new standard in the beauty industry. As consumers increasingly seek brands that align with their values, Lancôme’s commitment to making the world a more beautiful place resonates deeply, paving the way for a more sustainable and equitable future in beauty.
