Origins

Is Origins an ethical brand?

Estée Lauder Companies Inc., which owns a number of subsidiary brands, including Origins, receives a low ethical score from The Good Shopping Guide. Unfortunately, as shown by its poor Good Shopping Guide ethical rating in our Ethical Skincare Ratings Table, this brand currently comes far below our ethical benchmark for the skincare sector. Origins must make a number of changes before becoming qualified for our Ethical Accreditation.

In which research categories does Origins perform well?

Origins receives a top rating in the Environmental Report category, as despite Estée Lauder’s flaws, it has a comprehensive report that outlines goals for future environmental progress.

Additionally, Origins claims to have vegan products within its range. Although these products are not certified by an external organisation, Origins receives a middle rating under our Vegetarian/Vegan Verified criterion for this achievement.

In which research categories does Origins perform badly?

For the Public Record Criticisms category, Origins unfortunately receives a bottom rating. This is because Estée Lauder has been accused of numerous unethical activities, such as plastic pollution, workers’ rights abuses, overpaying its CEO and more.

Additionally, as Estée Lauder publicly confirms that it tests on animals when required by law, Origins receives a bottom rating for Animal Welfare.