The Hidden Downsides of In-Person Cosmetic Testers

In the world of cosmetics, in-person testers seem like a convenient way to try before you buy. However, these small samples are more problematic than they appear. They create environmental harm, pose hygiene risks, are costly, and often don't give accurate results. This article explores these issues in detail, explaining why we might need to rethink the use of these testers.

The Hidden Downsides of In-Person Cosmetic Testers
By The Blioh Team. Posted on February 04, 2024.

In the world of cosmetics, in-person testers seem like a convenient way to try before you buy. However, these small samples are more problematic than they appear. They create environmental harm, pose hygiene risks, are costly, and often don't give accurate results. This article explores these issues in detail, explaining why we might need to rethink the use of these testers.

  • The Environmental Impact: Cosmetic testers have a significant environmental footprint. Their production and disposal contribute to pollution and waste.
  • Packaging Waste: The packaging of these testers, mostly plastic, is a major concern. Most of this packaging isn't recycled and ends up in landfills, contributing to the global issue of plastic pollution.
  • Carbon Footprint: The entire lifecycle of these testers – from making them to getting them to stores and then disposing of them – adds to carbon emissions. Regular replacement means this cycle happens over and over, increasing their environmental impact.
  • Hygiene Risks: Testers pose serious hygiene risks. Used by many people, they can become a haven for germs.
  • Germ Hotspots: These testers are exposed to air and touched by numerous individuals, making them prime spots for germ growth. This raises the risk of skin infections and other health issues.
  • Spreading Germs: Using shared applicators can spread germs from one person to another, increasing health risks.
  • Cost Concerns: in-person testers are not just unhygienic and environmentally harmful; they're also expensive.
  • Constant Replacement: Stores have to frequently replace these testers to maintain hygiene and appearance, which is costly.
  • Higher Prices for Consumers: The cost of maintaining these testers often leads to higher prices for the actual products, making cosmetics more expensive for shoppers.
  • Ineffectiveness: Despite being a go-to for trying cosmetics, these testers often don't provide accurate or useful information.
  • Misleading Results: Due to exposure to air and light, testers can change in color and texture, which means they might not give a true idea of the product.
  • Limited Options: Testers usually offer a limited range of shades and types, not meeting the diverse needs of all customers.

Alternatives: Better Options for Testing Cosmetics

Considering these drawbacks, it's important to look at other ways to sample cosmetics. Technologies like virtual try-on apps, like Blioh, and single-use samples are more sustainable and hygienic.

  • Virtual Try-On Technology: Apps that let you virtually try on cosmetics reduce the need for physical testers and provide a more accurate representation of how a product will look. Blioh lets you try on 100s of products with ease, all thought waste. 
  • Single-Use Samples: One-time-use samples are a more hygienic and accurate way to test products. They also generate less waste, as they use less packaging.

In-person cosmetic testers have several negatives: they harm the environment, are unhygienic, costly, and often ineffective. The beauty industry should consider these issues and move towards more sustainable and consumer-friendly options. This shift is not just about changing how we test cosmetics; it's about being more responsible and thoughtful in our approach to beauty.



Tags: virtual reality, shade finder, makeup match, virtual try ons