Did you know that the beauty industry produces over 120 billion units of packaging globally each year? Most of it is plastic and much of it isn’t recyclable. From shampoo bottles to face cream tubs, plastic packaging contributes significantly to landfill waste and the microplastics polluting our oceans and waterways.
Why go plastic-free?
- Less landfill - Reducing single-use plastic helps ease the burden on waste systems
- Cleaner oceans - Fewer microplastics means less harm to marine life
- Healthier habits - Plastic-free often means fewer nasty ingredients and additives
- Conscious consumption - Encourages mindful buying and supports sustainable businesses
Brands leading the way
Several brilliant UK brands are proving that beauty can be both ethical and effective:
- LUSH
Pioneers in ‘naked’ products, from bath bombs to solid shampoo. They also run a scheme where you can return five of their black pots and get a free face mask! 100% of the pots are reused or recycled into new packaging.
- UpCircle
Skincare made from repurposed ingredients like coffee grounds, in recyclable packaging.
- Wild
Natural deodorants in stylish refillable cases.
- Beauty Kitchen
Refillable packaging and returnable bottles, all made in the UK! This brand are also a Pure Beauty Global Award Winner for best sustainable invention.
Top five tips for a more sustainable beauty routine
- Choose refillable packaging
Refillable products are a great way to cut down on waste but even if refills aren't an option, many brands now offer recycling schemes or incentives for returning used packaging. A few to check out:
MAC Cosmetics - Return six primary packaging containers (lipstick tubes, compacts etc.) to any MAC store or counter and receive a free lipstick through their Back to MAC programme.
L'Occitane - Bring back your empties (from any beauty brand) to their boutiques and they’ll recycle them responsibly through their partnership with TerraCycle. Plus, you tend to get exclusive discounts or loyalty points in return.
The Body Shop - They offer in-store recycling bins (also powered by TerraCycle), and are continuing to expand their Return, Recycle, Repeat scheme.
- Try solid bars
You can purchase shampoo, conditioner, and cleanser in bar forms which not only last longer but also skip the bottle!
- Read the label
Look for recyclable or compostable packaging, and avoid products with microplastics. You can also use apps like Yuka which will rate the ingredients and sustainability elements of a product (this also works on food!)
- Ditch the disposables
Switch to reusable cotton pads, safety razors and bamboo brushes.
- Support brands with transparent supply chains
Look for companies that are open about where their ingredients come from and how their products are made. Ethical sourcing, cruelty-free certifications, and fair labour practices (especially around problematic ingredients like mica) all contribute to more sustainable beauty.
Speaking of Mica, you may know that it is a common ingredient in mineral foundations, eyeshadows and lipsticks. It adds shimmer, but did you know that it comes with a dark side? Mica mining has been linked to unsafe working conditions and child labour, especially in unregulated supply chains. If you’re unsure, look for brands that use ethically sourced or synthetic mica, and always check their transparency policies.