Guide to plastic free skincare

While individual effort is no supplement for industry and governmental change to relieve the planet of excess plastic — the collective impact of small efforts from those with the capacity, financial and otherwise, can be potent. If you’re reading and you already use a reusable water bottle for example, you save around 156 plastic bottles from landfill each year with a single swap. When adding up these efforts per household item, across millions of people, the potential impact is undeniable and doubles as a call to action for governments and industries alike.

These are our tips for a low-waste, plastic-free skincare routine.

Know the difference: seek truly sustainable packaging 

When shopping for skincare products, look for brands that use informed sustainable packaging choices. Many brands tout recycled plastic as a solution — but with only a 9% recycle rate in Australia, they’re likely end up in landfill or the oceans. The most responsible way to repurpose recycled plastic is for objects that have longevity, not single-use items. 

Instead, seek products that come in majority glass, metal, or biodegradable containers. There’s so much on the market today; from solid bar cleansers, to plastic free sunscreen. Not only do these materials have less of a direct impact, but they also reduce the demand for plastic production, helping to minimize plastic pollution overall. Supporting brands with environmentally considered packaging sends a strong message to the beauty industry, encouraging more sustainable practices.

DIY Skincare: Embrace Nature's Goodness

Many effective skincare ingredients you find in skincare today can also be found in your kitchen or garden, eliminating the need for plastic-packaged commercial products. Experiment with homemade face masks, scrubs, and oils using natural ingredients like oats, honey, coconut oil, and aloe vera. DIY skincare not only reduces plastic waste but also allows you to customise products to suit your skin's unique needs.

Reusable and Refillable: Embrace Sustainable Skincare Tools 

Swap out single-use cotton pads, Q-tips, wipes, and other disposable items with reusable alternatives. Invest in washable cotton pads or reusable muslin cloths for oil cleansing and removing makeup. Opt for refillable skincare products whenever possible, as they often come in minimal, recyclable packaging. By choosing reusable and refillable options, you significantly reduce plastic waste generated from your skincare routine.

Embracing Multitasking and Minimalist Skincare

As awareness about marketing-gimmicks and upsells increases, multitasking skin care is having a moment. By incorporating versatile formulations that offer multiple benefits in one, you streamline your beauty routine while minimizing plastic-waste. Embrace minimalism by investing in a few well-rounded products that cater to your skin's unique needs. From all-in-one oil cleansers to multi-benefit sunscreens, let your skincare journey be a testament to the beauty of mindful choices and sustainable self-care.