“I asked myself why we needed to put water in shampoo when you’re surrounded by it in the shower. Well the answer is simple – you don’t,” says Brianne.
“A lot of beauty products are made up of more than 75-90 percent water, so let’s remove the water and see what happens.”
While studying towards a biology degree at University, Brianne taught herself cosmetic chemistry and began creating formulas in her kitchen to make solid products without the water, eliminating the need for plastic packaging.
Consistently achieving an annual 250-300 percent increase in global sales each year, Brianne knows the greater Ethique’s success, the greater reach her environmental message will have.
“I want to see the next generation grow up and continue the fight against plastic – and I’m more than happy if my role is simply to give parents one alternative to plastic in their lives,” she says.
While ensuring her products are environmentally-friendly, it was essential that the Little Ethique range was tailor-made for bubs and their sensitive skin.
“I really enjoy working in the lab and putting formulas together. The kids range was challenging in some aspects because we had to leave out certain ingredients that aren’t especially suited for bubs. I spent a lot of time making different formulas with ingredients that were allergen-free and gentle, while still being effective. I always ensure all of my products are naturally-derived,” says Brianne.
“I’ve made sure the products leave our little ones clean but still keep that lovely baby smell all parents crave.”
While her area of expertise is in removing plastic from beauty products, Brianne thinks parents can also be mindful of plastic in other areas, including disposable nappies.
“I realise the convenience needed with kids, especially for first time parents, because life is busy and complicated these days. But we need to adjust that attitude, because in all honesty, it’s killing the planet,” says Brianne.
She hopes that by helping parents making small changes to their routine, they can help reduce their entire family’s environmental footprint.
The simple act of switching to a shampoo bar soon makes a significant impact.
“Parents will go through three 350ml plastic bottles and 2.7L of water, before they go through just one Little Ethique shampoo bar, which also comes in packaging you can compost.
“My goal is to see bars in every bathroom – it doesn’t even have to be my bars – I just want people to become more educated on how they can make a difference.”
Her advice to parents is to think about what you are purchasing – even beyond baby products: “Is there an option available with less packaging, or an alternative?
“You don’t tend to question what you’re doing until someone pushes you. So what are you doing to help save their planet?”
To learn more about Ethique, their products, and the inspirational work they are doing, visit their website and follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
