How to have a zero waste beauty routine

Zero waste is the current beauty trend. Here are some tips to help you build a zero waste beauty routine .

In a world of big shopping sprees and PR-driven unboxings, zero-waste beauty practices are taking center stage. Are you tired of seeing your money go down the drain after buying the latest beauty product that’s been making the news?

Zero waste could be the answer. There are plenty of easy ways to go zero waste beauty, from being more proactive with the products you buy to ditching high-waste items that are hard to recycle, and here are some great ways to get started.

Zero waste beauty

• Discard disposable cotton pads
• Choose products with recyclable boxes or packaging
• Look for beauty products with refillable containers
• Streamline products with versatile options
• Complete everything in your current product set before purchasing any new products.
• Buy from brands with environmentally friendly and sustainable manufacturing standards

Discard disposable cotton pads

Disposable makeup wipes are easy to grab after a long day at work, and they’re also convenient to keep in your carry-on. Unfortunately, they’re wasteful and not good for the environment. The easiest place to start with a zero-waste beauty routine is to ditch disposable cotton pads and switch to micellar water or oils and reusable cloths.

Choose products with recyclable boxes or packaging

When shopping online, it’s hard to predict how a company will package its products. But if you’re shopping in stores, look for products with recyclable packaging. It’s easy to be lured by flashy branding, but fancy packaging doesn’t always mean less waste.

Not sure if something is recyclable? Check the packaging for the standard three-arrow recycling symbol before you buy.

Look for beauty products with refillable containers

Both non-sustainable and ultra-sustainable brands can offer refillable packaging. There are countless refillable products on the market, from YSL perfumes to Bésame Cosmetics pressed powders...

When it comes time to replace something in your kit, look for refillable products. And if you like something that isn't refillable, try to find ways to make it more environmentally friendly. For example, instead of buying a large eyeshadow palette of a single color, order individual boxes and refill the refills yourself.

Streamline products with versatile options

Cosmetics run out, and it’s inevitable. Take a moment before clicking add to cart. Instead of replacing what you just used up, consider finding a multipurpose alternative. For example, you could use Axiology’s Balmie Color Pencils for your eyes, lips, and cheeks. The fewer beauty products in your cart, the less waste you’ll have and the more money you’ll save during these pricey times.

Complete everything in your current product set before purchasing any new products.

Your instincts may tell you to throw out all the products you already own and buy a whole new batch of products that will produce less waste. Even though your purchases are well-intentioned, you’re still sending perfectly usable products to landfill.

Instead, embrace the zero waste spirit by not letting your current products go to waste. Join thousands of others in saving the environment.

Buy from brands with environmentally friendly and sustainable manufacturing standards

There’s always room for improvement on your zero waste journey. Making sure you recycle your products and reduce single-use items is a great start, but buying from sustainable brands can make a bigger impact.

Of course, not everyone can switch products right away. Depending on your allergies and skin, you may not be able to switch from your usual, more wasteful products—and that’s okay. But if you want to raise your zero-waste bar, try these eco-friendly brands:

• 100% Pure
• Axiology
• Bésame Cosmetics
• Elate Beauty
• Fat and the Moon
• Izzy Zero Waste Beauty
• Soft Neck