A woman's beauty routine can involve an array of products. They may make her skin glow and her eyes sparkle, but are they good for the environment? It can seem overwhelming at first, but making a few, simple changes to an existing beauty routine can have positive and immediate effects on the earth.
Recycle Beauty Product Packaging
According to the EPA, the average American produces 4.5 pounds of waste each day, and much of this waste comes from product packaging. Because cosmetics are often packaged in plastic containers that are not recyclable, those shiny tubes of lipstick, sleek containers of eye shadow, and beautiful compacts go straight to landfills after use.
To cut down on this waste, take advantage of the recycling programs run by beauty companies. Origins recycles all jars, bottles, and make-up containers, regardless of which company manufactured them. In exchange for bringing back six empty make-up containers, MAC rewards customers with a free lipstick, in the color of their choice.
Purchase from Environmentally Conscious Companies
Many cosmetic companies have made a concerted effort to focus not just on manufacturing great products, but improving or diminishing the impact of their activities on the environment. Patronizing these companies can help them continue to produce great products without straining the environment. Aveda manufactures its products with 100% wind power.
Pangea Organics supports organic farming and sustainable agriculture, and its products are recyclable or of recycled material. Burt's Bees creates products that are all natural, and most of its packaging is made from recycled material. Kiss My Face produces all natural skin care products on an organic farm in New York.
Reduce Waste with Environmentally Friendly Beauty Accessories
Every woman is familiar with that tube of lotion, toothpaste, or facial cream that is clearly not empty, yet the product is inaccessible. Try Dr. Hauschka's tube wringer, which crimps tubes, ensuring that every last drop of product is squeezed out from the offending tube. Using a wringer results in less waste and more bang for each beauty buck spent.
Most women could also find one or two easy ways to minimize the use of disposable products. Trade washcloths for disposable wipes. Purchase a good, reusable razor in favor of disposable ones. Buy favorite lotions and cleansers at wholesale stores to minimize packaging waste. Then, fill pretty bottles and jars with the products.
Create a Green Beauty Routine with a Few, Simple Changes
Making a beauty routine environmentally friendly can seem overwhelming at first. However, making a few smart changes can have a big impact on the earth without feeling like a compromise. Make a few simple changes today. That's beautiful.
Related Environmentally Focused Articles:
- Eco-Friendly Mother's Day Gift Ideas - get gift ideas for sustainable gifts that celebrate both mom and Mother Earth
- Eco-Friendly Living is Healthy Living - see how living green is good for the earth and good for health
- Eco-Friendly Eating - eat organic and local food to enjoy a better diet and a cleaner earth
Christine Harmon - Christine Harmon is a published author, trainer, and mommy obsessed with health, fitness, and all that makes the body work ...
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