How to Avoid Plastic in Beauty: Easy But Important Sustainable Solutions
Plastic is everywhere. It's the epitome of our modern society, symbolising our obsession with convenience and productivity. Research continues to come out about the adverse impact of plastic and microplastic pollution on the environment, wildlife and our health. Surely, in this day and age, we can find a new solution?
The beauty industry is no exception. Plastic is widely used in packaging, applicators, and even product formulations, contributing to the growing plastic waste crisis. From primary packaging like jars and bottles to single-use items such as face masks and cotton swabs, plastic is prevalent in beauty products.
But we remain optimistic. Plastic-free solutions already exist, offering efficacy, experience, and aesthetics without the environmental toll. By understanding where to spot plastic and making more conscious purchasing decisions, we can minimise our plastic footprint and support brands that prioritize sustainability.
Here are some tips to help you avoid plastic in your beauty routine:
- Educate Yourself: Learn where to find plastic in beauty products and understand its environmental impact. Look at not just the obvious primary packaging but all the components. This is a consideration as important as what's inside the bottle.
- Say No Thanks: It is tempting to take the free samples, but smaller products and soft plastic will not get recycled.
- Support Sustainable Brands: Seek out brands that actively minimise plastic usage and employ circular design principles in their product development. Many companies are embracing innovative solutions to reduce plastic waste in the beauty industry.
One notable innovation is solid beauty products. These plastic-free alternatives negate the need for traditional packaging, minimising waste and shipping resources while offering highly effective, concentrated formulas. From solid shampoos to skincare bars, these products are gaining popularity.
We encourage you to give them a go.
