The beauty industry is notorious for having a negative environmental impact, but we’ve curated a list of 5 simple adjustments you can make to your current beauty routine that will improve your health and wellbeing as well as the environment because, let’s be honest, nobody wants to compromise on having healthy skin or hair. Thankfully, you don’t have to compromise when you choose to be more sustainable in regards to your beauty. It can, however, be difficult to identify which products are actually clean and green. Sometimes what you think might be a top-of-the-line product actually contains the worst ingredients for you, or utilizes unsustainable manufacturing practices.
It might be difficult to see you’re making a difference. But from choosing vegan-friendly formulas that are good for your body, to innovative eco-conscious practices that reduce product consumption, you can inspire others and encourage a promising start for all. Some even describe it as a rejuvenating wellness treatment. Here are some sustainable beauty ideas that can enlighten you to start your eco-friendly journey today.
-
Use Up Your Current Products
The beauty industry is constantly evolving to keep up with the latest trends, but don’t let it tempt you. Buying every new eco-friendly product that hits the market will only cause a bigger demand and likely leave you with half-used products. Instead, completely use any and all products you currently have, especially if they’re going to expire. You can ensure you’re getting every last drop of your favorite product with mini cosmetic spatulas to reach inside small containers or maybe try a specially designed bottle cap that helps completely empty bottles. Not only does this habit help you feel good knowing you’re not wasting product, but it also saves you a lot of money in the long run. Practice being a slow consumer by conserving your resources and making a more positive contribution to the environment.
2. Your Dollars Are Your Voice
Next time you hit “add to cart”, ask yourself if the purchase is a sustainable decision. A little research goes a long way, and with so many brands advocating for a more environmentally friendly industry, you’re sure to find a suitable option. Look for details such as if a brand uses biodegradable or less packaging, do they manufacture without any fossil-fuel-derived ingredients and do they design their products to include less water in their composition. Whether it’s makeup or fashion, you can find a variety of high-quality upcycled materials, clean ingredients, and eco-conscious manufacturers. Take note of what brands you currently support and how sustainable they really are. Some popular activewear brands advocate for using recycled water bottles to craft their clothing. You can even find reliable and eco-friendly eyeglasses that give back to the planet and you’ll know every new pair of eyewear you get was manufactured with a sustainable impact. When you think about what you’re contributing to when you make a purchase, you can reduce your carbon footprint more than ever before.
3. Find Alternatives to Plastic
One of the biggest impacts we can have on our carbon footprint is to remove as much plastic from our lives as possible. Need to restock your makeup remover wipes, deodorant, or shampoo? Swap out disposable wipes for washable cotton face pads and consider switching to refillable deodorants, moisturizers, soaps, and so much more. Other great plastic-free alternatives include wooden combs, package-less shampoo and toothpaste tablets. When you shop with a minimalist routine in mind, you won’t have to worry about disposing of so much plastic.
4. Stay Away From Harmful Substances
Going all-natural, organic, and “clean” is definitely beneficial to your health and the health of the planet but keep in mind that almost any brand can classify their product as “natural” or “cruelty-free” without actually practicing clean manufacturing processes. Prior to buying any product, research what you’re introducing into your body first. Do your research before committing to a product, and get into the habit of reading the product’s ingredients list before you buy. Some common ingredients are especially known to cause damage to the environment and be harsh to your body. For example, certain beauty products contain microplastics that never degrade and ultimately end up in our water supply. Microplastics pollute our rivers, lakes, and oceans, and release toxic chemicals that harm marine life.
Here are some common unhealthy ingredients to avoid:
-
Parabens
-
Triclosan
-
Sulfates
-
Synthetic fragrance
-
Microplastics and microbeads
5. Create a Day Spa at Home by Repurposing
Everybody deserves a luxurious holistic spa day at an eco-friendly righteous spa but even when you can’t be at the spa, you can always bring the healing and relaxing benefits of the spa to your home. With a little time and creativity, you can upcycle your used beauty containers instead of tossing them in the trash. Glass containers can easily be transformed into a simple and elegant reed diffuser with your favorite essential oils for a calming yoga session, or even work as a candle holder to set a meditative ambiance. Upcycling can give you peace of mind knowing you’re helping keep materials out of fastly growing landfills. If you’re not feeling crafty, consider taking the time to clean your bathroom or vanity by rinsing out empties and disposing of them properly. Recycle as much as you can, including materials such as glass, tin, cardboard, and any hard plastics.
Being fully sustainable in your beauty routine takes time and commitment but it’s so worth it. Talk to others who are also practicing sustainability in their lifestyle and you’ll have the chance to learn more and stay motivated day-to-day. Take it one step at a time and you’ll be making a big change before you realize it.
Kansas City Wellness Club is devoted to encouraging natural, eco-friendly, and holistic lifestyles. With services including yoga, reiki intuitive energy healing, spa facials, steam bath & sauna, massage therapy and so much more, you can enjoy a revitalizing experience that also supports our planet.