After many years as a pioneer in plastic-free, solid beauty bars, Ethique is closing its Australian distribution and will no longer be supplying the Australian market.
As a long-time retailer of Ethique, we at Biome are incredibly sad to see this chapter close. Ethique's commitment to sustainability and palm oil free solutions has been inspiring. Their departure from the Australian market is a loss for all of us who value ethical, waste-free beauty.
But why is Ethique closing in Australia? And what made their products so special?
Why is Ethique leaving Australia?
Ethique announced that they are closing their business in both Australia and the UK because continuing to operate in these regions is no longer financially viable.
In their own words:
"Growing a small business requires difficult decisions, and after a deep dive into our operations, we've found that continuing to serve these regions is no longer financially viable. As a company committed to both environmental and financial sustainability, we've chosen to refocus our efforts where we can make the greatest impact."
While Ethique’s online presence will continue in New Zealand and the US, Australian and UK customers will no longer be able to order from their websites.
So, has Ethique gone bust? No, they are still operating—just shifting focus to regions where they can sustainably grow their impact.
What Made Ethique Bars So Special?
For years, Ethique has been one of the most innovative brands in the zero-waste beauty movement, and here’s why we loved them at Biome:
✔️ Plastic-free before it was trendy – Long before sustainability was a trend, Ethique was leading the way with solid beauty bars that eliminated the need for plastic packaging.
✔️ Genuinely ethical ingredients – Ethique sourced fair trade, vegan, and cruelty-free ingredients, ensuring their bars were kind to people, animals, and the planet.
✔️ Super concentrated & long-lasting – One Ethique shampoo bar replaced three bottles of liquid shampoo, making it both economical and eco-friendly.
✔️ Australian customers loved Ethique bars – Whether it was their Frizz Wrangler Shampoo Bar, Heali Kiwi, or Pinkalicious Conditioner, Ethique had a loyal following among Biome customers.
Is Ethique still available in Australia?
✅ Yes—for now. Ethique shampoo and conditioner bars are available to buy from the Biome website and in our physical stores.
Now, with Ethique closing down their Australian operations, it’s time to stock up while you still can.
What’s next for plastic-free beauty in Australia?
While we will deeply miss Ethique, Biome continues to champion zero-waste beauty. If you’re looking for sustainable alternatives, here are some of our top picks:
Best solid shampoo & conditioner alternatives
One of the things that made Ethique's shampoo bars unique was that they were surfactant-based, meaning they worked just like a solid version of liquid shampoo—foaming up easily, rinsing clean, and feeling familiar to those switching from bottled shampoo.
The challenge? Most solid shampoo bars contain surfactants derived from palm oil. Finding a palm oil-free surfactant-based shampoo bar that performs just as well is no easy task, but Biome is actively seeking alternatives that meet our strict ethical standards.
💡 What about soap-based shampoo bars?
Soap-based shampoo bars, which use saponified oils instead of surfactants, are a different experience. While some people love them, they have a higher pH that can leave hair feeling coated or waxy, especially in hard water areas. Switching to a soap-based bar may require an adjustment period and the use of a vinegar rinse to balance pH.
✅ Biome is committed to offering a high-performing, palm oil-free solid shampoo option. While we search for a surfactant-based alternative that aligns with our sustainability values, here are some great options to explore:
Find Shampoo & Conditioner Bars at Biome here
Final thoughts: Ethique’s legacy lives on
Ethique’s exit from Australia is disappointing for eco-conscious consumers, but their impact on the beauty industry will not be forgotten. They have proven that plastic-free beauty can be effective, ethical, and mainstream, paving the way for more brands to follow.
At Biome, we remain dedicated to providing zero-waste, non-toxic alternatives—because sustainability should never be a trend, but a way of life!
