Sian Victoria © - Natural, clean & sustainable beauty products

Best Eco-Friendly Beauty Tips

Whether you want to lead a completely clean and strict ethical lifestyle or want to take some easy and simple steps to become more sustainable in your daily routine and make changes where you feel most comfortable. Switching up your beauty regimen to become more sustainable is a great way to do so. It’s something that can be done easily and will make a great difference.

With climate change on the rise and the crisis of plastic pollution and wastage, there’s never been a better time to make sustainable changes where we can. Especially when it comes to beauty over-consumerism and reducing our energy use in the kitchen. These are two of many ways we can change our household habits that are taking their toll on the environment.

There are several ways to make your beauty routine ethical and kinder to the earth, with something as simple as switching the products in your makeup bag and skincare cabinet to be from sustainable beauty brands and using more ethically friendly essentials made from reusable materials.

Have a read to see 25 ways you can transform your beauty routine into something more sustainable, ethical, and better for the planet. You may not want to try all of them, but even doing a few of these listed is better than nothing because you’ll soon want to keep switching to greener alternatives once you start and see how much more beneficial it is for you and the environment.

1. Use up the beauty and skincare products you have first

Sian Victoria © - Facetheory skincare, face wash, toner, serum, eye cream, mask, moisturiser

Firstly, it makes sense to use up the makeup and skincare products you have first. Not throwing out half-used products or makeup you don’t use as much anymore is something incredibly simple and easy but will make an undeniable difference in taking steps to become more sustainable.

Before replacing your favourite makeup products, make sure you’ve used up the entirety of the product. Or, if you’ve found an old product in your drawer you perhaps don’t use as much, or it didn’t suit your skin type why not gift it to friends or family who might be able to make more use of it?

You can even go one step further and donate these old but in date or unwanted products to Beauty Banks, who will then pass these items on to women’s refuge centres and homeless shelters for women and men to make use of the products that would otherwise go to waste.

This is such a simple step you can make without having to majorly alter your routine. If you aren’t already doing this, why not consider it?

Over the years I’ve seen many of the women in my life use a new product a few times, established it’s not for them or it ‘doesn’t work’ and have disregarded it to the back of the beauty cupboard.

It’s important to know that in skincare it can take at least 30 days for your skin to show any visible benefits of using the product, so continue to use until its empty before deciding it’s not for you as your opinion is very likely to change once you give it time and you start noticing the results.

Experts say 3 months is usually the ballpark of when you’re most likely to see the difference, so do bear this in mind when considering giving up on a new product you’re using.

2. Swap plastic bottles for soap bar alternatives

Sian Victoria © - Eco Warrior sensitive facial soap bar

When buying beauty cleaning products, it can be easy to gravitate towards the plastic bottles that populate shelves. However, simply making the change to soap bar alternatives for the face, hair, hands, and body can make a difference to our environment.

Often just the same price as plastic face wash bottles or cheaper, these bars are equally as effective for cleansing but rank way above their liquid counterpart in terms of sustainability. Not only do liquid facial soaps, handwashes or shower gels and shampoos come in plastic packaging, which often cannot be fully recycled and simply contributes to landfill waste, but the chemicals within these liquids have been found to leave a significant carbon footprint.

Beauty brands such as Alternative and Faith in Nature and many more have an extensive range of soap bars that are suitable for use on the hands as well as the face, body and even hair. Choose from a range of reasonably priced, completely natural bars of soap that will be kind both to your skin and the environment.

With the chance to reduce single-use plastic consumption and enjoy better, highly concentrated ingredients that don’t involve any potentially environmentally harmful chemicals, why not opt for a bar of soap next time you’re replacing your empty plastic bottle? I can totally understand that a bar of soap isn’t for everyone, so if this is you.

Look out for facial washes and other skincare cleaning items that come in fully recyclable containers and packaging. Why not start by swapping a bottle of handwash for a bar of soap, it is the easiest swap for a kinder alternative.

3. Use multi-tasking castile soap liquid for washing the face, hair, body, and home

Sian Victoria © - Dr Bronner’s lavender pure-castile liquid soap

If you think that using a bar of soap isn’t for you, you can consider using liquid soap in more sustainable ways.

The Dr Bronner's Lavender Pure-Castile Liquid Soap is one of the best cleansing products on the market, being formulated with the environment in mind. Boasting some brilliant essential oil ingredients, including pure lavender oils to soothe both the mind and body, this 18-in-1 soap couldn’t be more multipurpose.

Perfect for cleaning the face, body, hair and even around the home due to its toxic-free formula, this soap is undeniably versatile. You can even dilute the soap with water to spray on houseplants if you’re dealing with gnat flies. And, due to being packaged in a fully post-consumer recyclable and reusable bottle, you can make sure your product is disposed of in the most environmentally friendly way after you’ve finished it.

This biodegradable, incredibly versatile and effective soap retails for a relatively affordable price as a little drop does a long way, meaning you can enjoy this miracle product’s benefits without breaking the bank.

Plus, there are a variety of sizes up to 3.8ltrs to choose from if you happen to love them and they come in many natural oil fragrances, such as peppermint, rose and almond.

4. Swap disposable plastic razors for reusable razors with refill blades

Instead of buying disposable razors, consider investing in a reusable razor. Not only are reusable razors better for getting a closer shave, but these products boast a whole range of environmental benefits that disposables can’t compete with.

These eco-friendly reusable razors are long-lasting, with you only needing to switch the blade every so often with a refill attachment.

If this sounds like something you’d be interested in, why not check out the Friction Free Shaving Razor Kit? This kit has everything you could ever wish for when wanting to switch to a more sustainable shaving routine. Complete with a high-quality razor and premium refill blades, you can personalise your kit by choosing any colour you fancy and having it engraved.

There’s a whole host of environmental benefits to these reusable refill razors, with the products even being able to be recycled at selected places after you’ve made the most of them. If you haven’t considered switching to a reusable razor before, I highly recommend it as there’s always far too much plastic being used on disposable razors.

5. Buy less and make better eco-friendly beauty choices and ditch the unsustainable brands

Sian Victoria © - Faith in Nature coconut conditioner & lavender

Sustainable and natural makeup brands are taking over the cosmetic market, with more eco-conscious makeup becoming increasingly in demand.

Skipping out on the harsh chemicals, fragrances and parabens that are often formulated within popular beauty products, these eco-friendly brands instead prioritise their kindness to the planet and harness the benefits of natural and organic ingredients, such as essential oils and plant extracts. These brands also tend to be cruelty-free and, thanks to their natural formulations, are perfect for vegans, too.

There are so many eco-friendly and sustainable cosmetic brands to choose from today, including Origins, The Body Shop and Lush, meaning you can upgrade your whole beauty routine and take a step towards being more sustainable in your everyday life.

If you’re looking to purchase from more eco-friendly beauty brands why not check out my posts on vegan makeup companies, plant-based skincare brands and cruelty-free body care products? To give you an idea of what type of eco-conscious brands to consider using so that you can ditch the unsustainable brands.

6. Ditch tampons and sanitary towels for a menstrual cup or period underwear

Sian Victoria © - OrganiCup menstrual cup

Though it can be easy to opt for tampons and sanitary towels when shopping since greener alternatives aren’t always available in supermarkets depending on where you live. I’d recommend thinking ahead and buying menstrual cups and period underwear online instead.

Not only are these products a popular choice for those who find tampons and sanitary towels uncomfortable, but cups and period underwear are incredibly sustainable thanks to their reusability and are a lot more comfortable and hygienic to wear.

Menstrual cups are becoming a popular choice, particularly for those with heavier flows. Preventing the need to carry extra sanitary products, the cups can be worn for several hours and then simply emptied, cleaned, and reused. The cups are so much better for the environment than plastic pads and toxic tampons, as well as much more cost-effective due to being reusable.

If menstrual cups don’t seem like your thing, why not consider period pants? A modern alternative to standard period products, this underwear is designed to absorb liquid, with different underwear depending on your flow. Thanks to their efficient absorbency, there’s no risk of odours or leaking.

Plus, the underwear is incredibly convenient and doesn’t involve the hassle of being changed out – simply wash it after use and then wear it again.

7. Trade toilet rolls and tissues for bamboo or recycled paper

Something you may not know that causes damage to the environment is the standard non-recycled toilet roll and tissue that many of us tend to conveniently buy from the supermarket.

Traditional toilet tissue is incredibly harmful to the environment. Beginning from the manufacturing process, the toilet paper releases toxic chemicals and requires large amounts of water to soften the wood pulp, with this damage being exemplified when flushed. Although most toilet roll is made with biodegradable materials, some can take up to 2 months to fully decompose if it’s extra thick and luxurious.

Bamboo toilet tissue skips out the harmful manufacturing process due to being made with raw bamboo rather than any chemicals and fragrances. This natural material also means it can biodegrade much easier and break down much quicker and more naturally than traditional toilet paper.

Bamboo tissue paper also has 65% fewer carbon emissions than normal toilet paper and 30% fewer than recycled paper. Compared to trees, bamboo grows five times as quickly and produces five times as much oxygen.

Although this may not be a change you’ve thought of, switching to more sustainable toilet tissue such as bamboo paper or recycled non-fragrant unbleached rolls can do wonders. The Environmental Paper Network claims that toilet roll made from trees has a three times greater climate impact than toilet paper made from recycled resources. It’s also best to purchase toilet paper that is labelled ‘processed chlorine free’.

8. Stop using makeup wipes and use reusable face cloths or muslin cloths

Sian Victoria © - Reusable cotton facial cloths &washable muslin cloths

Although it can be easy to reach for a makeup wipe when you’re tired or in a rush, you may not be aware of the strain they pose on the environment. With most makeup wipes being formulated with cotton and polyester, these products cannot easily be broken down and simply contribute to the issue of landfill waste.

So, you can take a step towards being more sustainable by swapping out these unfriendly makeup wipes and instead investing in a reusable face cloth or muslin cloth. These reusable face cloths are an obvious money saver – with the ability to simply wash and reuse every day, these cloths have a major edge over disposable single-use makeup wipes. Plus, the cloths skip out on the irritating chemicals within makeup wipes, meaning they’re much kinder to the skin if it is sensitive like mine.

Despite the convenience of makeup wipes, their strain on the environment means it’s ideal to consider an alternative. These reusable cloths can be purchased for around the same price point as your standard drugstore makeup wipe if not cheaper but boast a whole host of benefits that the wipes cannot compete with.

Thankfully, a lot more brands have started using biodegradable plant fibres in their makeup wipes, so this is an improvement in the industry. I understand that wipes are a lot more convenient when used on the go or at a festival etc.

But these still come in plastic packaging, so maybe consider using biodegradable wipes for out-of-home use and washable cloths for your everyday home use. So that you purchase single-use wipes less often. And always ensure they are resealed to prevent them from drying out and being wasted.

9. Make a homemade botanical, exfoliating face and scalp toner

Most skincare toners on the market today are infused with unfriendly chemicals that can irritate sensitive skin types, often doing more harm than good. And, with sustainable beauty brands sometimes being more expensive than traditional mass-market brands, why not go one step further towards making your everyday beauty routine more sustainable, and consider making a homemade toner?

The multi-use toner can be used on both the face and scalp as well as mixed into another DIY beauty treatment I mention further down on this list.

If oily or acne-prone skin is one of your skincare concerns, you can dilute 1/3 of apple cider vinegar with 2/3 of pure rose water, which will create a pore-minimising toner with exfoliating benefits, perfect for your night-time beauty routine. If the vinegar smell bothers you, add more rose water to dilute it. And for day use, simply use rose water by itself as a botanical essence.

I’ve been recommending the benefits of rose water for years, it will always remain a permanent beauty essential in my skincare regime.

The antimicrobial properties of the vinegar will ensure the natural pH of your skin is restored, soothe the face and scalp, and reduce the possibility of irritation. The vinegar is balanced out with rose water, known for its hydrating and antibacterial properties, while also fighting against infection and reducing any breakouts on the skin.

These natural, raw ingredients with no unnecessary added fillers can be found on the shelves in your local supermarket and are packaged in eco-friendly glass bottles. Simply purchase them for an affordable price and formulate them to create a natural homemade toner that’s cheaper, will last longer and is more skin-friendly than traditional liquid face exfoliant toners – which are often found in less sustainable plastic bottles and can sometimes contain non-beneficial ingredients.

Furthermore, a homemade toner is highly concentrated making it more effective, and you have full control over what you put on your skin. Our skin is the largest organ in our body, and it absorbs over 60% of what we put on it, so if your products contain chemicals that aren’t beneficial to the top layers of your skin it’s certainly not going to be beneficial in the body once your skin has absorbed it.

10. Create a DIY beauty plant oil serum with botanical oils and essences

Sian Victoria © - Rosemary, tea tree, lavender and peppermint essential oils

If you’ve made your DIY toner, carry on developing your new skincare regimen by formulating a homemade oil serum. Face serums are essential in many of our skincare routines.

Designed to hydrate, smooth, and nourish the skin, serums can be found across most beauty stores – however, they may not be using the most natural or beneficial ingredients. You can avoid the potentially irritating or harmful chemicals many of the high street facial serums may include by making a plant oil serum yourself.

Homemade facial oils utilise the nutritional benefits of organic ingredients to improve the skin. You can mix pure collagen-boosting grapeseed oil, great for treating acne breakouts with nourishing and tightening properties, with the benefits of hemp oil, perfect for calming irritation and balancing sebum production, together with drops of essential oils.

Essential oils are effective, natural ingredients perfect for tackling a few skincare concerns. You can add drops of tea tree oil if you’re suffering from dry skin and want to reduce acne breakouts, lavender oil to calm inflammation, rosehip oil to restore a youthful glow and peppermint oil for any irritation thanks to its antiseptic properties.

Making a homemade plant oil serum using plant-based essential oils means you can skip out on any unnecessary – and potentially harmful – fillers, while also avoiding plastic waste. When I do this, I use a small glass bottle with a rollerball and fill it with equal amounts of hemp and grapeseed oils and top it up with a few drops each of essential oils. The essential oils shouldn’t be used topically without being heavily diluted with carrier oil.

11. Mix up a homemade clay face mask that can be used on the body and scalp too

Sian Victoria © - Apple cider vinegar, rose rater and benedictine clay

Fancy a self-care evening? Ditch the store-bought, chemical-infused masks that you may have opted for in the past and make your own DIY clay face and scalp mask with just three beneficial ingredients and use the multi-purpose toner I mentioned earlier.

Mix calcium bentonite clay with apple cider vinegar and rose water to create a 100% natural, organic, and plant-based face mask that can be used not only on the face and body but the scalp too. Calcium bentonite clay has been proven to be incredibly effective at drawing out impurities and treating breakouts and oily skin by unclogging pores, making for a great base for a homemade face mask.

Apple cider vinegar is perfect for building upon these benefits, by soothing inflammation and restoring the skin’s natural pH, while rose water soothes any irritation and prioritises the hydration of the skin.

This mask is just as effective as store-bought face masks but instead skips out on the non-sustainable, irritating chemicals that are often found within their formulas. Calcium bentonite clay has also been found to be beneficial for the scalp due to its strengthening properties – perfect if you want to build thicker and healthier hair.

Simply apply the mask to the face and scalp using a masking tool and wait for it to dry, while also applying it to the back and shoulders if you suffer from acne on the body. Please note, if you decide to use it on your entire scalp and face as I do – you may look a bit ridiculous for 20 minutes but it’s totally worth it.

12. Forget body creams, use non-comedogenic grapeseed oil to moisturise the face and body

Traditional tubs and bottles of body creams can often contain toxic chemicals that have lasting damage to the environment, containing parabens that can harm marine life, while being packaged in non-renewable plastics that can’t easily be broken down. So why not consider investing in something a little more sustainable, you may even already have it in your kitchen cupboards.

Pure grapeseed oil or hemp oil can be used as an effective moisturising product, perfect for both the face, scalp, and body. Grapeseed oil is a great choice for those wishing to reduce the signs of ageing thanks to its ability to improve elasticity and nourish dull skill, while also balancing out the skin tone and protecting against free radicals. The amazing benefits of this ingredient are combined with hemp oil, perfect for balancing out oil production and boasting anti-inflammatory properties.

Thanks to these plant-based ingredients being naturally derived, using a moisturising oil rather than a cream would work wonders for even the most sensitive of skin types – and, due to being non-comedogenic, they would be perfect for acne-prone skin. If you want to enjoy hydrated, rejuvenated skin without any unnecessary added ingredients and a smaller carbon footprint, consider ditching shop-bought body creams and lotions and investigate cold-pressed plant oils instead.

Grapeseed oil is perhaps more suitable for everyone as hemp oil can have an earthy smell that you may not want on your body, so I recommend mixing it with a few drops of your preferred essential oil scent. And if you don’t have acne-prone skin then coconut oil should certainly be considered too.

13. Use coconut oil to hydrate and condition hair with a pre-wash hair mask and use it as an alternative to shaving cream, body lotion and mouthwash

Coconut oil is considered one of the best natural moisturisers for hair, thanks to being infused with healthy vitamins and lauric acid, known for its nourishing properties. If you’re seeking stronger, healthier hair, coconut oil works wonders by strengthening brittle hair right from the root and bringing life back into your dry and damaged locks making it the perfect natural ingredient to add to your new sustainable haircare routine.

Make the most of the benefits of coconut oil by using it as a pre-wash hair mask for 20 minutes if dull or lifeless hair is one of your beauty concerns. You can even use coconut oil on the face if you suffer from dry skin, as it works well to reduce inflammation and retain moisture.

However, I wouldn’t recommend this if you’re prone to acne as it can clog pores. Go one step further and use the oil for a shaving cream alternative to ensure you’re making the most of this incredible, natural product. But be aware that coconut oil solidifies again at low temperatures and can become slippery in the bath.

Coconut oil comes in a solid form in a glass jar rather than a plastic tub or bottle and can be purchased for an affordable price at most supermarkets. This means it’s a great, plastic-free alternative to other hair masks on the shelves – which are often packed with harmful fillers – and is therefore a brilliant product to hydrate the hair either before washing or overnight.

This natural oil with many uses is also beneficial for the gums and teeth. Known as ‘oil pulling’ a tablespoon of solid coconut oil that will melt instantly in the mouth can be used similarly to mouthwash to improve your dental hygiene. So, ensure to consider adding this multi-use oil to your hair, face, body, and dental beauty routine.

14. Pick reusable, refillable and fully recyclable products where possible

Sian Victoria © - Faith in Nature Tea Tea body wash & Lavender Conditioner

Next time you need to stock up on your favourite beauty products, try and pay more attention to their packaging and if they can be recycled properly after usage.

Refillable cosmetic products such as refillable face creams and shower gels mean you won’t have to purchase a new plastic product, while also being much more sustainable in your beauty routine. This is a great way to be cost saving and take steps towards being more eco-friendly.

Fully recyclable products are becoming more and more common as we become more aware of the impact the beauty and cosmetic industry is having on the environment. Avoiding unnecessary packaging and the risk of plastic waste, beauty companies that prioritise sustainability often use as little packaging as possible so is a more sustainable option.

Making sure you purchase reusable and refillable products that come in minimal packaging will ensure you’re doing what you can to reduce the impact the cosmetic industry has on environmental pollution and plastic waste. Using multi-use products and raw ingredients will also ensure you consume less and have a much smaller carbon footprint, which works out much more affordable too and lasts longer.

15. Buy beauty supplements that come in pouches not plastic bottles

Sian Victoria © - Peak Supps & Dr.Vegan supplements in plastic free, compostable pouches

To continue making conscious choices when next purchasing beauty and health products, you might want to consider buying nutritional supplements that are packaged more sustainably.

Skip out on any unnecessary plastic waste by buying vegan supplement brands that come in the form of pouches, instead. Not only do they have a smaller carbon footprint and can fit through your mailbox, but they can often make the product more affordable too as postage and manufacturing cost less.

The traditional plastic bottle packaging that often accompanies many high-street beauty and health supplements cannot easily be broken down, and therefore is a major contributor to plastic waste in our landfills and oceans.

By simply making the easy change to buying more minimally packaged supplements from brands such as Dr Vegan, you can make a great difference to the environment while still getting the same benefits of nutritional supplements when your diet lacks certain vitamins and minerals. And if you’d rather not rely on supplements eating more nutritious whole foods is a great way to reduce your need to consume tablets.

16. Use a bamboo toothbrush or an electric toothbrush with refills

Sian Victoria © - Oral B electric toothbrush & bamboo toothbrush & stainless steel tongue cleaner

Traditional plastic toothbrushes are a source of environmental damage due to their synthetic, non-recyclable material. Ending up on beaches, in our oceans or in landfills, their plastic is almost impossible to biodegrade in our lifetime and is aiding the plastic waste crisis.

Something as simple as opting for an electric toothbrush rather than a plastic disposable one next time you need a replacement can make a great difference in your sustainability efforts. Complete with refills, electric toothbrushes are much more effective at cleaning our teeth too.

When your electric toothbrush is eventually out of use, it won't have nearly as much of a negative impact on the environment as a traditional plastic toothbrush, especially if your electricity comes from renewable energy sources. When correctly recycled the parts from an electric toothbrush are broken down and reused helping to reduce the need to mine for new raw materials.

I’ve been using an Oral B electric toothbrush for over a decade and have only had to buy three during this time since so they are very long-lasting. I replace the heads every three months, which contain a lot less plastic than a manual toothbrush.

So, over the course of ten years, I’ve prevented 40 plastic toothbrushes from going to landfill or ending up in the sea while also benefiting my dental hygiene as electric toothbrushes help to remove more plaque and reduce gum disease.

If you’d rather not use an electric alternative, then consider a bamboo toothbrush. Made naturally, these eco-friendly toothbrushes are completely biodegradable and therefore don’t aid plastic waste, or pollution or rely on electricity.

Alternatively, if you want the best of both. A more sustainable bamboo toothbrush but with the effective cleaning of electric bristles there is now the Pearl Bar Sonic Electric Toothbrush with Bamboo Brush Heads. A fantastic option I’m switching to once mine no longer works in a year or two.

Although, I must admit Oral B electric toothbrushes are very long-lasting and switching to one from a manual is the best thing I’ve done to support my teeth and dental hygiene. But with the positive reviews, it seems that an electric bamboo toothbrush is just as good.

17. Ditch plastic bottles and use a charcoal stick for healthier and more pure drinking water

Plastic water bottles are perhaps one of the worst sources of plastic waste that our environment is facing. Despite many being considered recyclable, their plastic can take as long as 1000 years to completely break down and contributes to landfill and ocean waste, even killing marine life when it's deposited into our waters.

So rather than contributing to the crisis of plastic waste by conveniently purchasing a disposable plastic water bottle that leaks harmful chemicals into our drinking water. Why not pour water from the tap into a reusable water bottle instead and drop in a charcoal stick for purified and healthier water that tastes better too and is a lot cheaper in the long run?

These charcoal sticks work brilliantly to remove toxins and chemicals found in water while infusing natural, essential minerals such as calcium and iron back into the liquid. Lasting for around 3-6 months before it needs a natural recharge in the sunshine.

These charcoal sticks once they eventually stop soaking up toxins can then be utilised by breaking them up into pieces and mixing them into the soil of your house plants to give them essential nutrients.

As well as purifying tap water, benefiting your general health and beauty. Charcoal in supplement or powder form also works wonders for naturally whitening teeth, reducing bloating, and removing toxins within the body, the benefits of this natural product are endless. Charcoal sticks are also a plastic-free alternative to filter jugs.

18. Stop using antiperspirant spray and use kinder deodorant bars

Sian Victoria © - Salt of the Earth classic natural deodorant stick

While it can be easy to reach for a handy disposable antiperspirant spray when getting ready in the morning, a simple change such as buying a sustainable deodorant bar instead is much better for the environment, while still working just as well as a traditional spray.

Antiperspirants release harmful chemicals when sprayed and therefore contribute to the levels of air pollution. This damage doesn’t just affect the environment, as aerosol deodorants also have harmful and sometimes deadly effects on your health when inhaled which is why it’s important to only spray in well-ventilated areas, not in a bedroom or bathroom with the windows closed as there are nowhere for the harmful ingredients such as butane, propane, and isobutane to escape which are also flammable. So of course, they are not ideal to inhale (or be absorbed by the skin) and can cause breathing difficulties and burning in the throat.

So, why run the risk of causing damage to yourself and the environment when you can opt for a safer, effective alternative? Zero waste deodorant bars are also cruelty-free, vegan, and natural alternatives to antiperspirant aerosol sprays, formulated with no artificial chemicals and instead harnessing the benefits of organic shea butter and aloe vera among other essential, plant-based ingredients.

Plus, these bars often come in the form of recyclable packaging and refillable sticks, making them completely durable and safe for the environment. So, why not invest in something just as effective, and much kinder to the environment when it comes to personal hygiene?

19. Swap plastic tongue scrapers for stainless steel ones and use plant-based dental floss

Upgrade your dental routine by swapping out plastic tongue scrapers for a stainless steel one, proving to be a better option for the environment and your oral health. Made using a more durable, sustainable material, stainless steel tongue scrapers are made to be used indefinitely and therefore don’t run the risk of contributing to plastic waste. I’ve had the same one for years, just clean and dry and it will continue to look new and won’t rust when taken care of.

Go one step further and ditch the disposable dental floss. Traditionally made from non-biodegradable plastic and nylon, standard dental floss is non-recyclable and simply sits on top of landfills after usage and contains petroleum-based plastic among other ingredients that can be a health risk as some of the ingredients can be absorbed when used.

Instead, you can choose a more sustainable dental care option by purchasing plant-based dental floss. Replacing harmful plastics with vegan alternatives such as bamboo fibre or candelilla wax, this dental floss cuts down on greenhouse gas emissions and plastic waste while still providing an effective product for you to use in your daily routine.

20. Use re-usable and washable cotton pads and earbuds

Sian Victoria © - Re-useable cotton pads

If you think you want to make the switch from disposable makeup wipes to reusable cloths, you might want to consider going one step further and investing in reusable cotton pads and earbuds.

Single-use cotton buds and cotton pads may be convenient due to their handiness – but they do great damage to the environment after you use them and toss them in the bin. Many cotton buds and pads are often being flushed down the toilet when they shouldn’t be and becoming a source of ocean and landfill waste. Like plastic straws and bottles, these disposable single-use products couldn’t be more of a strain on the environment.

Re-usable cotton buds like those from the brand LastSwab and cotton pads are popular choices among beauty users wishing to become more sustainable. Made from tried and tested absorbent and reusable, natural materials such as bamboo and microfibre, several buds and makeup pads can be washed after usage and simply reused again.

If you don’t fancy making this change, at least look out for cotton buds with paper stems that come in a minimal cardboard box rather than the traditional plastic container.

21. Choose cosmetic bags made of recycled plastics or bamboo cotton

Sian Victoria © - Cosmetics bag made from recycled plastic

If it’s time to replace cosmetic bags that won't benefit from a machine wash or are broken, why not consider buying cosmetic bags and cases made from recycled plastics or cotton? Instead of buying a plastic makeup bag or one made from fabric that takes many years to break down such as leather which takes up to 50 years to biodegrade due to the chemicals used during the manufacturing process.

There are plenty of eco-friendly cosmetic bags that make sure your sustainable makeup and skincare products can be stored in the best way.

With eco-conscious cosmetics becoming increasingly in demand, recyclable and sustainable makeup bags, wash bags and containers are now popping up on shelves everywhere. Whether it’s a recycled canvas or cotton makeup bag, or a post-consumer recycled polyester bag, there are plenty of wonderful – and surprisingly affordable - cosmetic bags to choose from.

Swap out your old makeup container and opt for this sustainable alternative when you next need to replace your broken cosmetics bag or vanity case.

22. Consider using toothpaste tablets or brands with re-cyclable tubes

Sian Victoria © - Colgate Smile for Good toothpaste & bamboo toothbrush

Although what toothpaste you use might not be something that immediately springs to mind when thinking of a way to make your beauty routine more sustainable, it’s a simple change that can make a big difference since it’s an essential used every day.

Boasting all the same benefits of traditional toothpaste products, toothpaste tablets are free from harmful preservatives that are often found in typical toothpaste tubes, while also providing an equal level of cleaning.

To make things even better, these tablets are environmentally friendly – completely plastic-free and have a major edge over traditional plastic tubes of toothpaste. Plus, they’re perfect for travelling due to their handy size – what’s not to love?

If you don’t feel ready to make the change to toothpaste tablets just yet, you can still take some conscious steps towards sustainability by instead buying from brands that utilise recyclable toothpaste tubes and jars. Look for products that say they can be fully recycled including the cap next time you’re looking for a new toothpaste to make sure you aren’t adding to the crisis of plastic waste. To read more on this visit my cruelty-free and vegan toothpaste brands post.

23. Drop off your makeup empties to recycle at highstreet beauty stores

Sian Victoria © - Vegan & cruelty-free makeup brands, Barry M Cosmetics, EcoTools brushes

After making sure you’ve completely used up your favourite products, you can continue your steps towards sustainability by making sure you dispose of them in the best way you can.

Instead of letting your empty products sit in your cupboard or be thrown into your bin without a second thought, several high street beauty stores allow you to recycle your empty makeup bits including beauty tools and brushes.

Whether it’s an empty concealer tube, mascara, or eyeshadow palette, visit your local beauty store and simply drop off the products in the collection boxes or search online where you can find your nearest one locally.

This easy process means your empty products are broken down, recycled, and reused correctly simply by dropping them off when you’re next in the store. The aluminium eyeshadow trays can be effortlessly used by the cosmetics industry again and things like mascara wands are super useful for grooming tiny animals in shelters.

24. Swap plastic body wash puffs for silicone body scrubbers or eco sponges and loofahs

Sian Victoria © - Jute body exfoliating loofah & pumice stone

Upgrade your skincare routine by switching out plastic body wash puffs (only when they’re no good anymore) for a more sustainable – and often more effective – alternative.

Silicone body scrubbers are a much more durable choice over the standard body wash puff or loofah, holding onto fewer bacteria than their plastic counterparts and needing replacing much less. These scrubbers also provide a deeper level of cleansing due to their exfoliating bristles, removing dead skin cells, and restoring your skin's glow.

As well as silicone body scrubbers, you can also investigate eco sponges and loofahs to switch to. Made naturally after being obtained from the sea, these sponges are completely biodegradable and eco-friendly due to not containing any harmful plastics.

Their natural texture also means they’re safe to use on even the most sensitive of skin types. These sponges do require more regular changeovers due to being 100% natural, however, they remain more environmentally friendly than the regular drugstore loofah or sponge made from plastic that can also contribute to microplastics in the ocean that are harmful to marine life.

25. Donate your hair, fur or fleece to soak up emergency oil spills

Sian Victoria © - Hair emptied from hair brush

Our hair is extremely absorbent making it the perfect and most natural resource to use when cleaning up emergency oil spills across the globe. There are companies such as Matters of Trust and many other eco partners that work on renewable resources to come up with environmentally friendly solutions to harmful environmental problems such as oil spills that have deadly effects on marine life and locals.

They use donated hair, fur, and fleece to create mats that when dropped into the oily water can absorb an amazing amount of oil that would have previously been burnt away or have other chemicals dispersed from above to turn the oil into smaller droplets – which are equally just as bad for the environment and marine life. So, donating the hair on our head is a much more effective and cleverer choice!

So, whenever you empty your hairbrush or have a snip at the salon be sure to collect it and encourage your friends and family to do the same so that you can send it all in one delivery to the brilliant people that will create these hairy mats saving our waters from being polluted with harmful chemicals that kill marine life and cause difficulties to locals.

26. Reusable silicone face masks

Sian Victoria © - Reusable silicone face mask & facial oils

Sustainable beauty enthusiasts have embraced reusable silicone face masks as a game-changing addition to their skincare routine. Unlike traditional single-use masks, these eco-friendly alternatives are designed to be washed and reused multiple times, reducing plastic waste, and minimising the environmental impact of beauty practices. Besides their environmental benefits, these silicone face masks offer unique advantages when it comes to enhancing the effectiveness of skincare products.

Combining your reusable silicone face mask with facial oils is one of the top sustainable beauty tips for getting the most out. Before applying the mask, it's recommended to gently massage a few drops of your favourite facial oil onto clean skin. The mask can then be placed over the oil-coated face, creating a barrier that locks in the moisture and allows the nutrients from the oil to deeply penetrate the skin.

Leaving the silicone mask on for at least 30 minutes provides a relaxing and spa-like experience and ample time for the skin to absorb the beneficial properties of the facial oil. This method helps to improve the oil's absorption rate and intensify its impact on the skin, leaving it nourished, hydrated, and rejuvenated.

By integrating reusable silicone face masks with facial oils into your beauty routine, you can actively contribute to sustainable practices while achieving a natural and radiant glow and a mindful approach to beauty and self-care. Most use these silicone masks to apply onto a disposable sheet mask, however, if you apply the oils directly to the face instead this is a more cost-effective and sustainable beauty method.

27. Heatless hair curling set

Sian Victoria © - Heatless hair curling set

In recent times, the trend of heatless hair curling sets has taken the haircare world by storm, with its popularity amplified through platforms like TikTok. This innovative hair styling method has revolutionised the way we can achieve gorgeous curls without relying on heat styling tools. Not only does it offer a sustainable alternative by eliminating the need for electricity-consuming devices, but it also prioritises the health of the hair by minimising potential hair damage caused by excessive heat.

Traditional curling methods often involve subjecting the hair to high temperatures, which can lead to dryness, frizz, and breakage over time. Heatless hair curling sets, on the other hand, provide a gentler approach, preserving the hair's natural moisture and overall vitality. These sets typically consist of soft, flexible materials like foam, fabric, or silicone, which are used to form curls without applying direct heat.

One of the most popular techniques featured on TikTok involves using fabric strips or flexible rods to achieve curls. The process is relatively simple: dampen the hair slightly, wrap small sections of hair around the fabric strips or rods, and secure them in place. After leaving the hair to air dry or setting it overnight, the result is a head full of beautiful, heat-free curls.

By embracing this heatless curling method, you can reduce your energy use while also contributing to the overall health of your hair.

28. Sustainable makeup brushes

Sian Victoria © - Sustainable makeup brushes

When it comes to makeup application, many beauty enthusiasts are now choosing sustainable makeup brushes over their plastic counterparts. Sustainable makeup brushes offer numerous benefits that not only reduce plastic waste but also contribute to a healthier planet and a more ethical beauty routine.

The first thing to know is that cruelty-free, vegan, and eco-friendly cosmetic brushes are often constructed from bamboo, recycled aluminium, and synthetic fibres. Bamboo is a particularly popular choice as it is a renewable resource that grows rapidly and requires minimal pesticides or fertilizers.

High-quality sustainable makeup brushes are also designed to be more durable and long-lasting. Unlike their plastic counterparts, which may wear out quickly and end up in landfills, sustainable brushes can withstand frequent use with proper care. This longevity not only saves money in the long run but also reduces the need for constant replacements, leading to less waste. So, although they cost more initially, they are most likely to save you money over time as they will last you longer.

Many sustainable makeup brushes are also cruelty-free and vegan, meaning they are not derived from animal products and have not been tested on animals. Finally, conventional makeup brushes often come packaged in plastic, contributing to the plastic waste crisis. Whereas sustainable alternatives are often packaged in eco-friendly materials, such as recycled paper or cardboard, reducing the overall plastic waste associated with the product.

To conclude:

So, there we have it. Many ways you can make your everyday beauty routine much more sustainable, with quick and easy changes you can make in your day-to-day life to those that might require a little more time. Make sure to let me know which sustainability step you’re going to consider.

Once you start introducing more sustainable alternatives to your lifestyle and beauty routine, you’ll soon want to keep making more and more changes helping to reduce your carbon footprint, as well as benefiting from spending less because most things last longer and are multi-purpose.

Follow & Support

28 Ways - How to Make Your Beauty Routine More Sustainable