The beauty and skincare products industry not only contributes significantly to waste through single-use plastics, but also plays a role in microplastics pollution. These tiny particles are often found in personal care items like exfoliating scrubs, posing a threat to the environment, marine ecosystems and human health when they enter water systems.  

Here are some tips on making plastic-free swaps in your beauty and skincare routine to reduce waste and support a cleaner environment:  

Use soap bars instead of bottles  

Switching to soap and shampoo bars not only eliminates unnecessary plastic packaging but also promotes natural ingredients that are gentle on both your body and the environment. In that same vein, bring your own soap dispenser bottles to bulk stores where you can fill your containers with liquid soap, reducing plastic waste considerably. Local markets, farmers' markets, and specialty stores like zero waste shops and boutiques often offer a variety of sustainable options.  

DIY cleaning products 

Making your own cleaning products through DIY methods reduces reliance on plastic-packaged commercial cleaners and minimises the use of harsh chemicals. Ingredients like vinegar, baking soda and essential oils (optional) can often be found in your pantry. Best of all, DIY cleaning products are effective and significantly better for the environment. A quick Google search can help you create all kinds of simple, effective and environmentally friendly cleaning products 

Replace disposable pads or makeup wipes with reusable ones  

Choose reusable facial pads or wipes made from organic cotton or bamboo. These pads are gentle on your skin, washable and can be used multiple times, making them more environmentally friendly than single-use cotton products. Make sure to check the material of facial pads to avoid synthetic fibres or materials, as these can release microplastics in the washer. 

DIY your own skincare products 

Consider crafting your own skincare products like face masks and scrubs using natural ingredients such as honey, oats, coconut oil and even reused coffee grounds. This approach minimises packaging waste, especially when you reuse old product containers to store them. You may also find that these natural ingredients work better for your skin than store-bought products.  

Avoid overconsumption habits 

Given the multitude of products and rapidly changing beauty trends these days, it's important to keep mindfulness at the centre of our purchasing habit to avoid ending up with items that may expire or go unused. Opting for multi-functional products and only purchasing new products when necessary, can help curb overconsumption, conserve natural resources and minimise waste.  

As consumers, it’s important to keep in mind that every product we use has an impact on the environment. Adopting sustainable alternatives or advocating for eco-friendly practices from our favourite brands can encourage them to expand their sustainability offerings and put better options on the market. Speaking to our friends and family about these recommendations can also help promote a collective shift towards mindfulness in our consumption habits.   

Make sure to check the Australasian Recycling Label (ARL) on the back of your products for proper recycling and disposal instructions for packaging.