You've probably heard the term "Reduce, Reuse, Recycle"- but something you might not know is that "recycle" is last because it's the least effective. From horror stories of trash companies throwing carefully sorted recycling into the same landfill as everything else- to the greenwashing of every industry that claims plastic is fine so long as you recycle it- a lot of us are flat out sick of this.
Our planet is dying. Gen Z and Gen Alpha are paying for the hubris of those before them. As an elder millenial, I hope I'm out the door before things really hit the fan- but the sick truth of it is that I probably wont be.
The trash piles higher and the earth gets sicker every day.
The beauty industry, particularly skincare, is a significant contributor to plastic waste and environmental pollution. From packaging to single-use products, the impact on the planet is astounding.
However, with mindful choices and simple changes, you can significantly reduce waste in your skincare routine. It's not enough to save the planet- but it's a start. Other actionable items include activism, writing your legislators, and boycotting products that produce excessive waste.
This blog will guide you through practical steps to make your skincare regimen more eco-friendly and sustainable.
Assessing Your Current Skincare Routine
Identifying Wasteful Practices
The first step towards reducing waste is to assess your current skincare routine. Take a close look at the products you use daily and identify areas where waste is generated. Common sources of waste in skincare routines include:
- Single-Use Products: Items like makeup wipes, cotton pads, and sheet masks contribute to significant waste as they are designed for one-time use and often come in non-recyclable packaging.
- Excessive Packaging: Many skincare products are packaged in layers of plastic, cardboard, and cellophane, much of which ends up in landfills.
- Overconsumption: Using multiple products with overlapping benefits can lead to unnecessary waste and clutter.
By identifying these wasteful practices, you can start making informed decisions about which areas need improvement.
Choosing Sustainable Skincare Products
Opt for Minimal and Recyclable Packaging
One of the most effective ways to reduce waste is by choosing products with minimal and recyclable packaging. Look for brands that prioritize eco-friendly packaging solutions, such as:
- Glass Jars and Bottles: Glass is a highly recyclable material and can often be reused. Can you think of another use for that jar or bottle once you're done?
- Biodegradable Packing: Once you throw it away- will it break down? Or will it still be here 100 years from now?
- Minimal Containers: Does that face wash really need a plastic tube, inside a printed cardboard box, sealed with a cellophane wrap, and then thrown inside an amazon box for shipping with bubble wrap around it?
Support Brands with Sustainable Practices
Many skincare brands are now embracing sustainability by adopting environmentally friendly practices. Support brands that:
- Use Recycled Materials: Some brands use post-consumer recycled (PCR) materials for their packaging, reducing the demand for new plastic production.
- Offer Refill Options: Brands that provide refill options for their products help minimize waste. Refills typically come in minimal packaging and can be used to replenish your existing containers.
- Commit to Zero-Waste Initiatives: Some brands have zero-waste goals, meaning they strive to eliminate waste throughout their production process. Supporting these brands can make a significant impact.
Incorporating Reusable and Multi-Use Products
Switch to Reusable Alternatives
Replacing single-use products with reusable alternatives is a simple yet effective way to reduce waste. Consider incorporating the following into your routine:
- Reusable Cotton Pads: Instead of disposable cotton pads, opt for reusable ones made from organic cotton or bamboo. These can be washed and reused multiple times.
- Washcloths: Use washcloths or microfiber cloths for cleansing and removing makeup instead of single-use wipes.
- Silicone or Fabric Face Masks: Replace single-use sheet masks with reusable silicone or fabric masks that can be washed and reused.
Choose Multi-Use Products
Simplify your skincare routine by selecting multi-use products that serve several functions. This not only reduces waste but also declutters your skincare collection. Examples of multi-use products include:
- Moisturizers with SPF: Instead of using a separate moisturizer and sunscreen, choose a product that combines both functions.
- Cleansing Balms: A good cleansing balm can remove makeup and cleanse your skin, eliminating the need for multiple products.
- Tinted Moisturizers: These products provide hydration, sun protection, and a hint of color, reducing the need for multiple layers.
Proper Disposal and Recycling
Educate Yourself on Recycling
Understanding how to properly dispose of and recycle your skincare products is crucial for reducing waste. Different materials require different recycling processes, so educate yourself on the recycling guidelines in your area. Some tips include:
- Rinse Containers: Clean out containers before recycling to remove any residual product.
- Remove Labels: Peel off labels and separate different materials (e.g., pump dispensers from plastic bottles) to facilitate recycling.
- Check Local Recycling Programs: Some communities offer special recycling programs for hard-to-recycle items like beauty products and packaging.
Reducing waste in your skincare routine is a vital step towards a more sustainable lifestyle. You're not going to save the entire world- but small steps do matter.
When you opt for planet friendly choices, you're voting with your wallet. You're providing financial incentive to large corporations to make smarter choices- and that's where the true impact kicks in. So long as Dove can get away with plastic body wash, and Kylie Cosmetics can put forty five damn enclosures on their products- they will. But the moment their board sees a sustained drop in financials, they'll start to pay attention.
While you're at it- it's even better if you can find someone who produces their products using locally sourced ingredients- as this plays a major impact on transportation related greenhouse gases and shipping packaging. Let's look at the role of localized business in the skincare industry.