When we think about the environment, it’s usually plastic bags, bottles, and paper that come to mind. Most of us—myself included—are conscious about recycling, cutting back on plastic bags, and choosing fair trade brands. But how often do we think about our beauty routines in terms of environmental impact? Beauty products aren’t typically the first thing we associate with our ecological footprint, yet they often leave a mark on the planet. Many daily-use products come packed in single-use plastic or contain harsh chemicals that aren’t doing our planet any favors.
We all want to feel beautiful and confident—and let’s be real, makeup can work wonders. But going zero-waste with your beauty routine isn’t just about “saving the planet”; it’s about redefining beauty in an empowering and guilt-free way.
Ready to create a routine that’s as sustainable as it is stunning? Here’s how to start building an eco-friendly approach that doesn’t compromise style or self-expression.
Zero Waste Makeup Routine – The Basics
There’s a lot more to zero-waste than skipping straws and recycling. In fact, your beauty choices can make a big impact, starting with a few practical steps:
1. Simplify & Minimize Your Routine
You don’t need to jump on every TikTok trend—most of them won’t even be around a year from now. Instead, streamline your beauty regimen to only what you need. This minimalist approach is about doing more with less—saving time, money, and waste.
2. Choose Sustainable Packaging
Start by reducing purchases of makeup or personal care products with heavy, wasteful packaging. Lower demand for these products can push more brands to adopt earth-friendly practices.
3. Avoid Single-Use Plastics
Opt for glass or biodegradable packaging when buying makeup products. Not only is it better for the environment, but it often looks chic on your vanity, too. Also, a tiny habit change like using a soap bar instead of liquid soap will dramatically reduce your plastic use.
5 Steps to Achieve A Zero-Waste Makeup Routine
A zero-waste routine isn’t about going without; it’s about finding smarter, sustainable alternatives for your beauty essentials. Here’s how to get into a zero-waste groove:
1. Opt For Eco-Conscious Menstrual Products
For a complete eco-friendly routine, consider using washable menstrual pads or menstrual cups. These options help reduce waste while supporting your self-care routine.
2. Use Bottle-Free Beauty Products
Ever wonder how many shampoo, conditioner, and body wash bottles end up in the trash each year? There’s a better way! Try shampoo and conditioner without the excess water—and without the bottles. Not sure if it’s your thing? try Kitsch with this 10%-off coupon→
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3. Pick Up Eco-Friendly Brushes and Tools
When it’s time to upgrade your beauty tools, look for those made from renewable materials, like bamboo or recycled metals.
4. DIY or Buy in Bulk
Purchasing in bulk or mixing up your own beauty essentials can help cut down on packaging waste and give you more control over ingredients.
5. Use Natural Oils as Moisturizers
Try jojoba, coconut, or rosehip oils, which double as moisturizers, makeup removers, and even light highlighters. These oils offer the natural glow we love—without the waste.
Eco-Friendly Brands & Products to Add to Your Routine
If you’re ready to shop for eco-conscious products, here are some accessible brands available on Amazon that blend sustainability with quality:
Burt’s Bees
Known for its naturally derived ingredients and recyclable packaging, Burt’s Bees offers lip balms, foundations, and skincare items that are easy on the earth—and your skin.
Honest Beauty
With sustainable, refillable bamboo packaging, Honest Beauty offers eco-conscious products like mascara, foundation, and blush. Their refill program and eco-friendly mission make them a standout choice.
Honest Beauty Mascara
Clean Mascara + Lash Primer | Lengthening + Volumizing | EWG Verified + Cruelty Free
Ethique
This brand’s bar-format products, including shampoo, conditioner, and facial cleansers, are zero-waste champions. With compostable packaging, Ethique makes it easy to ditch bottles for good.
Reusable Makeup Remover Pads by Greenzla
Swap out disposable cotton rounds for washable, reusable pads. Greenzla’s eco-friendly makeup remover pads come with a cotton wash bag for easy laundering.
With just a few tweaks, you can build a makeup routine that keeps you looking great and feeling even better about your impact. Going zero-waste isn’t about perfection; it’s about making intentional choices that align with your values and benefit our planet.
