Do you love makeup? Many others do too. However, many people have started to realize the need for more sustainable alternatives. Let us make the “behind the scenes” of your makeup routine more environmentally friendly with the 10 tips below.
1. Less is More
You have probably heard this motto numerous times. It was originally used in the context of architecture, but it can be used in just about every modern-day scenario. Your makeup routine isn’t an exception.
When it comes to a more sustainable makeup routine, “Less is more”, refers to reducing the number of products that you buy. Do you truly require that many? Start using another famous quote: “Less but better.”
2. Start Using Vegan Makeup
Were you aware of the fact that your makeup contains plenty of bioproducts and animal products? Animal fat in foundations, fish scales on lipsticks, crushed beetles on your eyeshadow, and the list is virtually endless.
Plus, many popular brands of makeup do tests on animals. Brands that create vegan cosmetics, as well as beauty and skincare products, are genuinely making a difference in the world, especially with regard to carbon dioxide emissions.
3. Always Go for Natural Ingredients
Let’s not get started on toxic chemicals or microplastics found in makeup. There’s a rise in the demand for natural alternatives, and this is an indication that better times are coming. Consumers would like to know what they are getting, especially in the beauty and skincare industries, they no longer like the idea of complicated ingredient lists blindsiding them.
Always choose natural ingredients in your makeup as a way not only to protect your health but also the environment. The nasty chemicals and microplastics in your makeup end up down the drain and eventually contaminate our seas. Well, that will no longer be the case.
4. Alternative Packaging
Cosmetics and beauty products are tightly packaged and protected for safety reasons, but in most cases, plastic is used for this. Similarly, makeup containers – foundations, lipsticks, mascaras, eyeliners, etc.- are made of plastic that isn’t always recyclable.
Fortunately, many conscious brands have started to adapt their packaging to glass, aluminum, wood, and paper, which are all much easier to recycle.
5. Wooden Makeup Brushes
Have you ever heard of makeup brushes made of wood? Well, they exist and are here to stay. When you’re looking to upgrade your makeup brushes next time, go for wood or bamboo handles. It will be a very sustainable spin on your makeup routine.
6. Look for Refillable
Today, some brands sell refillable makeup, usually at a discounted price. Those foundation bottles, loose powder boxes, or eyeshadow containers? Refill them. No more waste.
7. Start Using Recyclables
Many types of plastic aren’t recyclable. Check the labels of the makeup products that you purchase. If they are recyclable, go for them; otherwise, steer clear of them. A sustainable makeup routine doesn’t have room for containers that will eventually find their way to the ocean or landfills. You definitely shouldn’t contribute to it anymore.
8. Stop Using Makeup Remover Wipes
Makeup remover wipes have served their purpose. They are great if you have an emergency at a business dinner or when camping, but they definitely don’t have any place inside your house. First, because they are single-use and second, they are usually not recyclable or biodegradable. Besides that, makeup remover pads usually contain alcohol and other chemicals likely to irritate the skin.
9. Try Reusable Cleaning Pads
Reusable cleaning pads are a better solution for makeup removal. They are just like cotton pads but are instead washable and thus reusable. Some reusable cleaning pads are made of a special blend of cotton and bamboo fibers and come with a tiny laundry bag that helps you keep track of them in the washing machine.
10. Use Biodegradable Cotton Buds
If you love eyeliner, you probably use a lot of cotton buds, right? Well, single-use cotton buds with a plastic handle are definitely out of the question. Instead, you should go for biodegradable cotton buds. Vegan, biodegradable cotton buds are made of cotton and bamboo fibers only and are a great addition to your sustainable makeup routine.
