7 Ways To Make Your Skincare Routine Sustainable
We’ve all heard of the usual suggestions to become eco-friendlier like turning off the lights, reducing food waste and rethinking your method of transportation but have you ever thought about making your skincare routine more sustainable? We spoke to lead product developer and skincare specialist at Glo Skin Beauty, Amanda Von Hagen, to discuss small changes you can make to your skincare regime to make it more eco-friendly.
1) Make reusable zero waste makeup remover pads
Quite possibly one of the easiest switches you can make- reusable cotton pads! Conventional cotton wool pads are so readily available, most people don’t think that about the impact it has on the environment every time they use them. When cotton is not organically sourced, the chemicals produced can cause pollution, harm wildlife and really damage our ecosystem. Therefore, it is best to use reusable cotton pads. Simply give your pads a quick wash with warm water and natural soap to reuse them! Not only will this save you money, but it will save the environment.
2) Skip drying lotions that are bottled in plastic. Use carrier oils
Unfortunately, our skincare and beauty regimens are the number one culprit when considering ocean-damaging plastic. Instead of using lotions which are bottled in plastic, opt for brands that offer plastic-free solutions instead. Alternatively, go zero-waste and use carrier oils such as coconut oil, avocado oil or aloe vera gels instead to moisturise your skin. The essential oils from carrier oils are derived from aromatic leaves, bark or roots of plants and can be so beneficial for the skin, as well as the environment.
3) Try homemade masks
Making zero-waste choices should never mean you have to sacrifice on your skincare. Whilst eradicating single use plastic is much better for your carbon footprint, homemade facemasks are fun to make and often better for your skin. Not only are you making an environmentally friendly decision, but natural products contain fantastic antioxidants and ani-inflammatory properties which can enhance blood circulation, reduce anti-ageing and remove any dry, dead cells of your skin.
4) Recycle jars and containers
Sometimes we can’t avoid using products in packaging, but it is important to recycle and reuse whenever we can. Recycled material is a valuable resource which massively cuts down the need for extracting and processing raw materials, which is a huge cause of pollution. A simple act like recycling will reduce our need to consume energy and limit the waste in landfills- so recycle whenever you can!
5) Don’t leave the water running
Typically, in our skincare regime we are removing makeup, dirt and grime from our skin via the use of products and water. However, with our rising population the amount of water we are using is affecting oceans, rivers and lakes- alongside the wildlife in them. A simple act such as not leaving the tap running can help conserve water and our eco-system. Consider washing your face with a damp microfibre washcloth instead to save water, and try stick to cold water in order to save energy.
6) Seek out refillables
Reducing our use of excessive or unnecessary plastic packaging is essential for doing our part in this climate crisis. Increasingly, we are noticing brands switch to easily recyclable materials such as glass and aluminium, as well as offering refillable products. Some brands also offer a refillable product scheme, where on the fifth refill you will get a free refill. Opt for products in glass bottles, pouches or with pop-out holders so you can reuse the packaging and ask for a refill.
7) Use compostable sponges to exfoliate when needed
Ever wondered what happens to makeup wipes once you use and dispose of them? Well, they are likely to end up in a landfill damaging and trashing our planet. A biodegradable alternative is to use compostable sponges which are not only eco-friendlier alternatives, but a fantastic way to exfoliate and cleanse in one simple step. This plant-based skincare solution will get rid of any excess makeup, dead skin cells and leave your skin soft and supple.
