Eco-Friendly Beauty Swaps to Create Less Waste

You likely use some sort of personal care item every day, whether that’s strictly hygiene products like shampoo and deodorant, or you have a full beauty regimen with skincare and makeup. Unfortunately, many of the products we use daily generate a significant amount of waste, contributing to the pollution of our landfills and oceans. That doesn’t mean we should give up our hygiene and beauty routines, and it’s certainly not all on us as consumers, but we can make smarter choices when purchasing that have a positive impact on the planet.

It can be difficult to navigate the world of eco-friendly products. Some may seem unfamiliar or strange to try, and there’s a lot of greenwashing to wade through, but the long-term impact is worth it. Once they are a part of your routine, you won’t be able to go back. Below are a few of my favorite eco-friendly beauty swaps. 

_{Prices are accurate as of November 1, 2024. Subject to change.}

What Makes Something Eco-Friendly

With eco-anxiety and climate change at the forefront for many consumers and companies, significant changes have been made to packaging, labeling, and ingredients over the last decade. However, some of these efforts can be “greenwashed” to appear more eco-friendly than they actually are. For example, a product might use a cardboard sleeve over a plastic bottle to suggest it’s compostable or claim to be made from recycled plastic when, in reality, only a small portion is. It’s important to know what to look for when shopping for eco-friendly products so you’re not fooled by good marketing.

Packaging: We live in a plastic-centric world. It would be close to impossible not to touch a piece of plastic for the rest of our lives. But plastic takes nearly forever to decompose. With many of the options here, I focused on products that come in glass, bamboo, metal, and other recyclable or compostable materials. When making a decision about a product, take note of what it’s made of.

Ingredients: Palm oil and chemical sunblock are two ingredients that have detrimental impacts on ecosystems. Harvesting palm oil causes mass deforestation of tropical forests. Many indigenous people and endangered animals are impacted by the destruction of their ecosystem. With chemical sunblock, studies have shown a link to chemical blocks, like oxybenzone, and the bleaching of at-risk coral reefs. If you come across these ingredients, you can do research to see if they’re sourced ethically, but there are brands using other ingredients instead.

Disposability: Another thing to consider is how often you are going to be using a product and whether it will create waste every time you use it — like single-use masks and makeup wipes. Many of the options here are products that have a long life and high reusability. 

Whether you decide to try one or all of these products, there are a few things to remember. First, use up what you already have. It’s easy to see something new and want to try it, but the most sustainable way to reduce waste is to finish whatever product you already have in your vanity. Second, do what makes sense for you and your lifestyle. If there is a certain shampoo you love that does great things for your hair or a deodorant that works for your sensitive skin, you don’t need to give it up. Finally, while it’s noble and kind to want to do what’s best for the planet, it’s not all on you to save the Earth. Small steps, like switching to these products , are important, but don’t stress yourself out trying to be the greenest person in your neighborhood. In environmentalism, the little things matter. So do the little things when you can.

Axiology Balmie Trio Set 

When I first came across Axiology Beauty, I knew I had to try it. This brand is dedicated to not only low waste in general, but zero plastic waste! All of its products are vegan, cruelty-free, and palm oil-free, and most of its small lineup is meant for multi-tasking. My favorite part about the Balmie is that it’s a 3-in-1 beauty product. This little crayon can work as lipstick, blush, and eyeshadow. It is a great swap for the plastic-laden lipsticks that are typically available and will free up some room in your makeup bag.

HiBar Shampoo and Conditioner Bars

​​Switching to shampoo and conditioner bars can feel like a major shift in your hair care routine. I was initially hesitant and had to experiment with several options before discovering HiBar, but the results were amazing. My hair felt healthier and smoother, and stayed less greasy throughout the day. HiBar’s products are free from parabens, sulfates, and dyes, making them safe for color-treated hair. Plus, since they’re solid, these bars are perfect for hassle-free travel. I like the Maintain shampoo and conditioner, which is meant for healthy hair, but the brand has many types available addressing particular concerns, like repairing heat and chemical damage, volumizing, or maintaining curls.

Leaf Dermaplaner 

Dermaplaning has become a regular part of my skincare routine for gentle exfoliation and peach fuzz removal, helping my makeup apply more smoothly and evenly. However, most dermaplaning razors on the market are fully disposable and made from plastic. That’s why I love this dermaplaner from Leaf Shave, made of durable metal and available in several beautiful colors. It features a weighted handle and an easy blade-replacement system, which is the only disposable part (and it’s recyclable). Plus, the refills are affordably priced.

Braun Epilator

For years, I relied on disposable razors, but they often left me with razor burn, ingrown hairs, and results that only lasted a day or two. Since switching to the Braun Silk-Epil, I haven’t experienced irritation, and the results last at least two weeks. While it’s made of plastic and comes at a higher price point, it’s been a worthwhile investment. I’ve used my epilator for five years, replacing roughly 260 disposable razors and saving about $695. Plus, I no longer need shaving cream. Both your wallet and the planet will thank you! Epilators aren’t for everyone, so if you’re not sure you can give up regular shaving, consider using a safety razor instead. Leaf Shave also makes a safety razor with a metal handle and easily replaceable razor blades. Better Report staff also likes the affordable razors from Kitsch and Merkur.

Elate Beauty

Elate Beauty is a beauty brand that is taking clean and low-waste products to the next level. All of its packaging is glass, metal, or bamboo, the makeup is 100% vegan and cruelty-free, and 75% of the ingredients are organic. Most items have refills available that cut down on repeat waste — like reusing the pump of the foundation. This B Corp company produces high-quality foundation, eye shadow, and mascara that is sustainable and safe. Additionally, you can build your own makeup palette with its specially designed bamboo compact that perfectly suits your skin and makeup needs.

Dieux Forever Reusable Silicone Eye Masks

There’s much to love about relaxing after a long day with eye or face masks on. But most options are single-use, which is wasteful for the environment and your wallet. Dieux’s reusable silicone eye masks are an eco-friendly way to have a spa-like experience at home. Pair them with your favorite serum or eye cream and you’ll see the same benefits of a disposable mask without the waste. Thoroughly wash them after use and store them in their tin. 

Paula’s Choice Reusable Makeup Remover Pads

Taking off makeup is a very important part of a healthy skincare routine, but using a new makeup wipe or two every day adds up in cost and waste — and makeup wipes often do more harm to your skin than good. With these reusable pads, made from cotton and bamboo, you’re able to reduce your waste and get a deeper clean with your favorite cleanser. They’re gentle on sensitive skin too. LastObject also makes reusable cotton rounds that come in a recycled plastic container for easy storage. Both brands are easily machine-washable, and the Paula’s Choice pads come with a mesh laundry bag so they won’t get lost.

EcoTools Compostable Beauty Blender

Beauty blenders have revolutionized how we apply foundation and powder, but their spongy material means they should be replaced about once a month for hygiene reasons. While traditional beauty blenders are made from plastic, EcoTools offers a compostable alternative made from materials like corn, ensuring they decompose within a reasonable timeframe. They perform just as well but are a more eco-friendly choice.

Native Plastic-Free Deodorant

In my personal opinion, based on riding the New York City subway during the heat of summer, deodorant is always necessary While some are skeptical of mainstream deodorant brands, Native’s natural, plastic-free deodorant is a great alternative with only nine ingredients. It comes in a variety of scents, including an unscented option for those with sensitive skin or noses. Do yourself — and your fellow commuters — a favor by making this sustainable swap!

CoTz Mineral Sunblock

There are two types of sunscreen: mineral and chemical. While both protect your skin from the sun, studies have shown that chemical sunscreens can negatively impact coral reefs when worn in the ocean. Mineral sunscreens are a great alternative for everyday use. CoTz offers a sheer primer that smooths the skin without leaving the white cast typical of many mineral sunscreens.

LastSwab

Reducing waste is essential to eco-friendly living, and the reusable cotton swab from LastObject helps minimize the need for disposable ones. Designed for both ear cleaning and beauty, it’s a perfect addition to your routine, ideal for quick touch-ups while lowering your environmental footprint. The swab comes with a recycled plastic carrying case, making it easy to toss in your purse for on-the-go fixes like smudged mascara or out-of-line lipstick.

Feature Image Credit: Larisa Klassen/ Shutterstock