Sustainable issues have been gaining space in scientific research and also in the routine of cosmetics companies. However, cosmetics companies face challenges in fully implementing sustainability, and the literature lacks empirical and holistic evidence on sustainability in this industry. This study identifies the drivers, barriers, and good sustainable practices existing in the cosmetics industry from the perspective of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). We relate these findings to the stage of the cosmetics life cycle and present an analysis of the incorporation of Design for Sustainability (DfS) principles in this industry. We carried out a qualitative research comprising eight small and large cosmetics companies. Our results show that sustainable practices are focused on environmental aspects in the design and sourcing stages. Companies are aware of their responsible commitments and are mobilized regarding sustainable production. We also observe some efforts regarding sustainable consumption, but there are clear opportunities for improvement in this regard, and there are difficulties to be overcome. Although companies have shown advances concerning CSR, compliance with DfS principles is still incipient. We summarize the findings in a system that enables managers and academics to understand how the cosmetics industry can qualify actions to enhance its sustainable practices through CSR and DfS. Theoretical and managerial implications are then discussed.
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