Packaging
Much of RMS's cream cosmetics are packaged in glass pots (a forever recyclable). The brand uses aluminum and PCR materials to a great extent to cut down on plastic waste. By 2022, RMS succeeded in transitioning all lids and caps to 100% PCR plastic. RMS has also embraced refillable packaging for many of their products, which has led to significant plastic savings.
For secondary paper packaging, cartons are made from at least 80% PCR paper (reaching 100% for some packaging). They print with vegetable-based inks and source paper from vendors using renewable energy. RMS joined the PACT collective to improve post-consumer recycling rates and work to recycle hard-to-recycle beauty industry packaging.
Ingredient Sustainability
The company's ingredient philosophy centers on low-impact, plant-based inputs that are organically grown, which tend to have a lower environmental impact than conventionally farmed or synthetic ingredients. Wildcrafted ingredients (harvested from their natural habitat) like certain herbal extracts and oils are sourced in a way that does not rely on intensive farming, though RMS ensures these are gathered responsibly to avoid depleting wild plant populations (uncertified).
RMS relies on plant-derived oils and waxes and has confirmed that these are obtained via fair-trade and cruelty-free supply chains. The brand also uses organic, ethically sourced beeswax, obtained in ways that prioritize the health of bee populations and local ecosystems. No nano-sized particles are used in their formulations, eliminating concerns about potential environmental persistence. When it comes to synthetic or petrochemical-derived ingredients, RMS Beauty's stance is that they only use synthetics if they are proven safe and necessary, and many conventional petrochemicals are avoided.
Energy Use and Footprint
RMS Beauty has made some efforts to reduce its energy footprint, though detailed data on the brand's carbon emissions or energy usage is not publicly provided. One notable initiative is the use of renewable energy in the manufacturing of their packaging materials. RMS Beauty has publicly stated a commitment to reducing its carbon footprint “wherever possible.” While specific metrics are not given, this ethos is reflected in their business decisions.
One area where RMS could improve transparency is in carbon offsets or renewable energy for its own operations. As of now, there is no evidence of carbon-neutral shipping or formal carbon offset programs for the brand's direct shipments.
Waste Management
In terms of operational waste, RMS has also taken steps behind the scenes. The brand mentions working with vendors to recycle or upcycle store display units and other marketing materials once they are no longer needed. There isn't much public information on RMS Beauty's handling of manufacturing waste or returns. However, the use of high-quality natural ingredients often means fewer hazardous by-products in production. And by keeping their product lineup relatively streamlined (focusing on multitasking products and long-lasting staples), RMS likely avoids overproduction and excess inventory that would go to waste.
Business Model
A defining feature of the RMS model is product design that emphasizes quality over quantity. The brand offers a curated range of multitasking products (many items have multiple uses). By focusing on hero products that have enduring popularity, RMS avoids the fast-beauty habit of constantly churning out new, disposable collections.
