Elemis

How ethical is Elemis?

Elemis is a luxury skincare brand which has fallen below The GOOD Shopping Guide’s ethical benchmark on our Ethical Skincare Ratings Table. Elemis’ below-benchmark performance is driven by poor ratings across animal welfare, irresponsible marketing, packaging, and public record criticisms.

What does Elemis do?

Elemis was founded in London in 1989 and is owned by L’Occitane Group, which acquired the brand in 2019. The company produces a range of luxury skincare, body care, and wellness products including its Pro-Collagen, Dynamic Resurfacing, and Superfood ranges. Products are sold globally through its own retail and spa channels, department stores, and online, including in physical stores in mainland China.

Why does Elemis fall below The GOOD Shopping Guide’s benchmark?

Elemis’ below-benchmark performance is shaped by several serious concerns. The poor rating for animal welfare is the most significant. Elemis sells its products in markets where animal testing is legally required, and the brand has faced widespread scrutiny from consumer and animal welfare organisations over its animal testing policy. Elemis was removed from cruelty-free brand lists following its expansion into these markets and its acquisition by L’Occitane Group, which also does not hold cruelty-free status.

The poor rating for irresponsible marketing relates to claims the brand has made about its animal testing practices that have been disputed by independent researchers and consumer organisations. Publishing inaccurate statements about regulatory arrangements is a concern that reflects on the brand’s broader commitment to transparency.

Elemis also receives a poor rating for public record criticisms, reflecting the documented public scrutiny of its animal testing claims, and a poor rating for packaging. The organic rating is also poor, and the vegan verification rating is acceptable rather than good.

Elemis does achieve good ratings for environmental reporting, genetic modification, armaments, and political donations. These reflect areas of genuine strength. However, the animal welfare and irresponsible marketing concerns are issues that The GOOD Shopping Guide cannot overlook.

Consumers seeking skincare brands that meet The GOOD Shopping Guide’s ethical benchmark are encouraged to consult our Ethical Skincare Ratings Table and our guide to ethical skincare, and seek out brands that hold The GOOD Shopping Guide’s Ethical Accreditation. Our how we rate page explains the criteria used to assess all brands in this sector.