Is Aesop ethical?

Overview

Aesop was founded in 1987 in Melbourne, Australia, and has since grown into a globally recognized brand with a cult following for its high-end, plant-based skincare and distinctive packaging. In 2012, Aesop was acquired by the Brazilian cosmetics giant Natura & Co, which also owns The Body Shop and Avon. However, in 2023, Natura & Co sold Aesop to the French multinational L'Oréal Group for approximately $2.5 billion. This shift in ownership introduces significant ethical considerations, as L'Oréal has a long history involving animal testing practices and complex supply chains. While Aesop maintains a strong brand identity around quality and design, its ethical standing is now closely tied to its corporate parentage.

Certifications

Aesop does not currently hold any widely recognized third-party certifications such as Leaping Bunny, Cruelty Free International, or Vegan Society certification. The brand is not certified B Corp. Its products are not certified organic by USDA or COSMOS. Aesop claims to use many natural ingredients but does not have a certified natural or organic standard. The absence of independent certifications means consumers must rely on the brand’s own statements, which are limited in scope.

Animal Testing & Vegan Range

Aesop states that it does not test its products or ingredients on animals, and claims compliance with global regulations including the EU ban on animal testing for cosmetics. However, it does not hold any cruelty-free certification from a recognized third party. Since the acquisition by L'Oréal (which historically tested on animals in China before recent regulatory shifts), Aesop’s policy remains unchanged for now, but future alignment with L'Oréal’s China market strategy is unclear. Aesop does not label its entire range as vegan; some products contain ingredients like beeswax, honey, or lanolin. The brand identifies some vegan products on its website but does not offer a fully vegan product line. There is no explicit statement on whether ingredients are sourced from suppliers that test on animals.

Sustainability Pledges

Aesop has made several environmental commitments, including using 100% recycled PET for its plastic bottles (where legislation allows) and offering a refill service in some stores. The brand has also implemented a bottle recycling program in select locations. However, its glass and plastic packaging is often not widely recyclable due to complex design. Aesop does not publish a comprehensive sustainability report with carbon footprint data or science-based targets. The brand claims to use renewable energy in its own stores and offices, but supply chain emissions are not transparent. Water use and ingredient sourcing sustainability are addressed only vaguely. L'Oréal has a broader sustainability plan (L'Oréal for the Future), but Aesop’s integration into that plan is not fully detailed.

Sourcing & Labor

Aesop sources ingredients from multiple countries, including Australia, France, and South Africa, but does not provide detailed supplier lists or certification for fair trade or ethical labor. The brand states it selects suppliers based on quality and ethical practices but does not publish a public code of conduct for its supply chain. No independent audits or reports on labor conditions are available. L'Oréal has a supplier code of conduct, but its implementation at Aesop level is not independently verified. The brand’s pricing suggests premium margins, but exactly how much reaches producers is unknown.

Controversies Context

No major scandals or controversies are on record for Aesop. The brand has been criticized for its high price points and elitist marketing, but not for specific ethical violations such as labor abuse, environmental disasters, or false claims. However, the lack of transparency and certifications raises concerns among informed consumers about greenwashing.

Bottom Line

Aesop offers well-formulated, aesthetically pleasing products but falls short for consumers seeking verified ethical credentials. The absence of cruelty-free certification, limited vegan options, and opaque supply chain—especially under L'Oréal ownership—make it a risky choice for those prioritizing ethics. It is a reasonable option if you value design and scent and are willing to trust a brand’s word without third-party audits, but there are many more transparent and certified alternatives available.