Instep Desk

Has it ever occurred to you that you are using (avoidable) single-use plastic in your makeup and beauty regime on a regular basis? Most of us don’t think twice about the fact that plastic is everywhere. Whether it is an eye shadow palette or a mascara tube, a face wipe or a Q-tip, research shows that 40 per cent of plastic is used for the packaging of beauty products. In fact, the beauty industry is one of the largest contributors to the tons of plastic waste that’s being dumped into oceans.

It’s almost impossible to eliminate all plastic from life and while we can adjust to plastic that has long term use, it is - at the same time, important to reduce your beauty carbon footprint and make sure it doesn’t take its toll on the environment.

It’s time to clean up your eco-act. We’ve listed 6 tips to use less plastic in your beauty routine.

Ditch those makeup wipes

Did you know that makeup wipes are made from ingredients such as polyester, polypropylene, cotton, wood pulp, and rayon fibres? This means that the makeup wipes, that help you remove your makeup with just one swipe, are actually damaging the environment. And in the long term, they’re not good for your skin either. Keeping in mind that the plastic fibres in wipes take over 100 years to biodegrade, it is time to bid adieu to makeup wipes, and instead use alternatives that are better for your skin. A muslin cloth is a perfect example; it cleanses and removes impurities while also working as a gentle face exfoliator. You can also use recyclable makeup remover pads or a face cloth.

Invest in double-duty products

If you want to make your makeup routine plastic free then invest in multi-tasking products. Do you really need a sun block, foundation, highlighter, concealer, primer, setting spray, powder, etc.? Well, we are guessing, not always. Try choosing products which are double-duty; think BB creams with SPF, tinted moisturisers, a highlighter palette that can be used as shimmery eye shadows and your favourite eye shadow palette that can double up for contouring, blush, and highlighting.

Investing in multi-use, hybrid products will not only minimise the use of plastic but will help you save on packaging, waste and cost too.

Say no to microbeads

A good face exfoliator is an essential part of any skincare regime, but have you ever wondered what’s actually doing the exfoliating? It is those tiny microbeads present in it that promise a glowing and fresh complexion. The next time you plan to buy a facial exfoliator, look for an environment-friendly one that doesn’t contain microbeads and say goodbye to plastic. Microbeads are tiny polystyrene balls that absorb and release toxins, damaging marine life. While some countries have banned such products, there are still thousands available in the market, so choose wisely.

Find refillable products

To limit your packaging consumption, look for refillable products. By opting for refillable products you reduce the environmental footprint and plastic pollution generally associated with cosmetics.

Opt for glass packaging

Glass packaging is the easiest place to start when it comes to reducing your environmental impact; a simple logic is to buy products from brands that use recycled and recyclable packaging. However, the best packaging is glass because it is infinitely recyclable. Not only is glass packaging chicer, but it’s also better for the environment. The use of glass jars means these containers can either be recycled and/or will be broken down over time.

Use a reusable razor

Girls, if your preferred method of hair removal is shaving, then ditch those plastic disposable razors and opt for a reusable, stainless steel model that you can use again and again. Throwing away constant disposable plastic razors causes phenomenal harm to the environment. According to an estimate, around two billion razors are thrown away each year. That’s a lot! You can find a reusable, stainless steel razor in any major retailer and can get reusable blades for cheap. It’s cost-effective and eco-friendly too.