Sustainable Beauty Tips

Here at Sustain, we’re all about building eco-friendly habits that fit your lifestyle. From reading to fashion to traveling, we’ve discussed sustainable upgrades that include your unique needs, budget, and identity. But what about one of the biggest markets in the world, with an estimated value of $579 billion–the beauty industry? 

According to Earth.org, waste from makeup and beauty products contributes to water and soil pollution, deforestation, mass production of plastic, and more. Ingredients washed away can harm our water systems, and the industry’s practice of animal testing continues in nearly 80% of countries. With the rise of sustainable alternatives and brands, you can care for our planet while caring for yourself!

No matter your beauty routine, many opportunities exist to upgrade to eco-friendly habits. Let’s explore some of the simple ways to begin:

Avoid Plastic Microbeads

Tiny microbeads cause big problems. Found in many exfoliating products, these plastic beads may leave your skin smooth but end up in our waterways and eventually within the seafood we eat. Opt for products made with jojoba beads, bamboo stem powder, sugar, oats, and coffee. 

Watch the Faucet

Shutting off the sink while washing your face or brushing your teeth saves a massive 200 gallons of water each month!

Use Sustainable Alternatives

Many commonly used beauty tools, from toothbrushes to cotton rounds to loofas, are now created with sustainable materials. Look instead for bamboo or cork, and consider switching to brands that use recycled or refillable packaging. 

Donate and Recycle

Before throwing away gently used products, consider donating them to local shelters and studios that sanitize and reuse them! When recycling, clean and sort each item by its plastic recycling symbol.

Choose Eco-Friendly Brands

While the beauty industry doesn’t have the most sustainable history, new brands that care for the Earth launch each year. Cruelty-free, vegan, and without harmful ingredients, these products are also gentler on the skin! Check out this list of sustainable beauty brands to get started. 

While not all of these changes can be made overnight, switching to a sustainable beauty routine plays an impactful role in protecting our planet.

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