Although devoid of controversial substances and more eco-responsible, solid cosmetics do not only have advantages over conventional products. Deciphering with the survey carried out by the magazine 60 Millions de consommateurs on toothpastes, deodorants and solid shampoos.
With the enthusiasm of “zero waste” and clean beauty, solid cosmetics have become very trendy, with brands now offering a multitude of products based on ecological arguments. But are solid cosmetics really effective? Not always according to this survey published in the February 2022 issue of 60 Million consumers magazine.
Mixed efficiency and practicality
To carry out its survey, the magazine 60 Millions de consommateurs focused on three different solid cosmetics: shampoos, toothpastes and deodorants. If the products tested present, on the whole, a healthier composition and less plastic in their packaging, it turns out that their long term benefits are debatable.
Regarding the ten solid shampoos screened, their effectiveness was deemed correct by the panel of twenty testers. However, after a month of testing, they preferred to reuse their usual shampoo. One of the reasons for this disappointment: if used incorrectly, a solid shampoo can irritate due to the undiluted, therefore more concentrated, ingredients it contains.
As for toothpastes in powder, stick, pebble or tablet form, the nine references tested were singled out because of the abrasive agents that they contain. The magazine also points out that the toothpastes on the panel are generally fluoride-free. They are therefore likely to damage the enamel and do not help effectively against the appearance of cavities.
Finally, eight solid deodorants (in stick, bar or cream form) were tested during this survey, which revealed allergenic or sensitizing compositions, due to the essential oils often used in these cosmetics. If they were well tolerated after a month of testing, some solid deodorants caused skin irritation, especially when the skin is naturally sensitive. In addition, the practicality of deodorants without an applicator was poorly rated, particularly those in bar, cream and balm form which did not convert testers over the long term.
Should we switch to solid cosmetics?
While some solid cosmetics have not completely convinced the panel of testers of 60 million consumers, they remain an attractive alternative for adopting “cleaner” beauty. A solid cosmetic is defined by the fact that it does not contain water in its composition, which makes it possible to avoid the addition of chemical preservatives. Thus, it displays a cleaner and more natural composition, perfect for fans of Slow cosmetics. Solid cosmetics are also eco-friendly since their packaging is abandoning plastic in favor of cardboard. However, note that solid cosmetics are ecological, but not always economical because their price is usually higher than that of conventional cosmetics. Another disadvantage: the sensoriality of the products which can confuse the unaccustomed. To emulsify with a skin of water, solid cosmetics may be less foaming, present a particular scent or offer a different texture that does not necessarily appeal. Would it be a question of time, to get used to it or to understand how to use them well?