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Last updated on October 2nd, 2024 at 11:50 am
We’re all aware of the growing problem of plastic waste, especially when it comes to beauty products. From shampoo, body wash, and lotion bottles to skin care containers, it adds up fast. But you don’t have to wait for brands to take action—you can make a real difference by making small, eco-friendly changes in your beauty routine. Keep reading for eight smart ideas you can use now to reduce plastic waste.
8 Ways to Minimize Plastic Waste in Your Beauty Routine
1. Try Solid Beauty Products
Consider switching from body wash to bar soap and from liquid shampoo to shampoo bars. Traditional body washes and liquid shampoos are packaged in bulky plastic bottles. Bar soaps and shampoo bars, on the other hand, are often wrapped in minimal or eco-friendly packaging like paper, cardboard, or recyclable tins.
These solid alternatives tend to last longer than their liquid counterparts, offering more value while reducing your environmental footprint. By making this switch, you can significantly cut down on single-use plastics in your bathroom routine.
2. Switch to Refillable Beauty Products
Another simple swap you can make is switching to refillable beauty products. From cleansers to makeup, many brands now offer refillable options.
This means you can keep the container and just refill the product when it’s empty—cutting down on plastic waste and saving money over time. So, the next time you’re shopping, keep an eye out for brands that offer refillable options.
3. Choose Products with Less Packaging
Excess packaging is everywhere in the beauty industry. But you don’t have to settle for it! Look for brands that use minimal or no packaging, especially ones that avoid plastic.
As we’ve already mentioned, many solid soaps, shampoos, conditioners, and deodorants now come in simple cardboard boxes, or even better, with no packaging at all. By choosing these products, you’re supporting brands that prioritize the planet and avoiding unnecessary waste.
4. Recycle and Upcycle
While cutting out plastic altogether is the goal, sometimes you will end up with plastic packaging. When that happens, don’t just toss it in the trash—make sure to recycle it properly.
More and more beauty products now come in containers made from recyclable materials too, so check the label, and do your part.
If you’re feeling crafty, you can even upcycle old containers for home storage or decor, like turning old jars into makeup brush holders or small plant pots.
5. Say No to Excess Packaging
Have you ever bought a tiny product that came in a huge box? Most consumers are becoming frustrated with excess packaging. As a buyer, you can help push back by supporting brands that minimize packaging or use more sustainable materials.
When shopping online, look for companies that offer eco-friendly shipping options, and let them know that you prefer less packaging whenever possible. Your voice matters!
6. Consider Brands Who Use Plastic Offsetting Initiatives
Some beauty brands are going the extra mile by investing in plastic offsetting initiatives. For every purchase you make, they contribute to projects that remove plastic waste from the environment—whether it’s from the ocean or local landfills.
By supporting these brands, you’re helping to actively reduce the amount of plastic in the world. It’s a powerful way to align your purchases with your values. So, next time you’re browsing for beauty products, look for brands that offset their plastic use and support communities fighting plastic pollution.
7. Choose Recycled and Recyclable Packaging
We’ve discussed that eco-conscious brands are moving toward using recycled or recyclable packaging. Whether it’s glass, bamboo, metal, or biodegradable paperboard, these materials offer a more sustainable alternative to plastic. The best part? You can often recycle the packaging after you’re done, keeping it out of landfills. Some brands even offer packaging made from post-consumer recycled materials, which means they’re helping to reduce waste from start to finish.
When you shop, check the packaging for recyclable symbols or materials like glass or aluminum, and aim for products that are as plastic-free as possible.
8. Support Plastic-Free Beauty Brands
Some beauty brands have moved away from plastic entirely, offering products that come in glass, metal, or compostable packaging. These companies are leading the way in sustainability.
By choosing to buy from plastic-free brands, you’re supporting innovation in sustainable packaging and helping to accelerate the movement toward a plastic-free future.
Wrapping Up
By making any, or all, of these eight small, but powerful, changes to your beauty routine, you can significantly reduce your plastic waste. And, when we all pitch in, the impact is even greater. It’s about making simple, mindful choices with the goal of a more sustainable lifestyle—one beauty product at a time!
Also read:
Sustainable Swaps + a Free Printable Checklist
26 of Our Favorite DIY Beauty Products
20 of Our Favorite DIY Beauty Recipes for Cold Weather
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