Sustainable Beauty Swaps: Your Routine Just Got A Greener Glow-Up

Looking good shouldn’t come at the planet’s expense. Yet, most beauty products leave behind plastic, chemicals, and toxins. Luckily, there’s an easy fix! Sustainable beauty swaps like refillable compacts and biodegradable tools let you keep your glow and go green. Not sure where to start? This article breaks down sustainable beauty swaps that will help you build an effective and eco-friendly self-care regimen.

Sustainable Beauty Swaps: These Upgrades Feel Good And Do Good

The beauty industry is evolving, and your routine can too. These sustainable beauty swaps are designed to give you the same results, minus the waste and guilt. Keep reading for the clean beauty revolution that starts at home.

1. Stop Using Disposable Makeup Wipes

Makeup wipes are convenient to use but they contain non-biodegradable synthetic fibers that clog landfills and pollute oceans. Most makeup wipes also include alcohol and harsh chemicals that dry out the skin.

Better swap: Reusable makeup remover pads made from soft bamboo or cotton. These pads remove makeup with just water or a gentle cleanser. LastObject and Face Halo offer makeup wipes that last for hundreds of washes.

Why it’s better: Less waste, fewer chemicals, and saves money in the long run.

2. Switch to a Shampoo Bar

Liquid shampoos come in plastic bottles that often end up in dumps. Although some bottles are recyclable, many still don’t get properly processed. Most liquid shampoos also contain sulfates that strip hair of moisture.

Better swap: Shampoo bars as they don't need extra packaging and work just as well as regular ones. Ethique and HiBAR actually offer shampoo bar options with natural, plant-based ingredients.

Why it’s better: No plastic, long-lasting, and travel-friendly.

3. Choose Refillable Beauty Products

Many beauty brands use plastic containers for their products, which people throw away after one use. Even if you recycle these bottles, plastic weakens over time and will eventually become waste.

Better swap: Refillable products. More brands now have refill stations to cut down on plastic. Try Kjaer Weis for refillable makeup or Fenty Beauty for foundation refills.

Why it’s better: Creates less plastic waste and lowers packaging costs.

4. Replace Aerosol Dry Shampoo with a Powder Version

Aerosol dry shampoos may refresh hair quickly, but they also pollute the air with chemicals. Some even include talc, a harmful ingredient linked to certain types of cancer. Powder dry shampoos, on the other hand, are equally good and way safer than aerosol versions.

Better swap: Powder-based dry shampoo. It absorbs oil naturally without toxic ingredients. Look for brands like Rahua and Acure, which use rice starch and clay for a clean, effective formula.

Why it’s better: Non-toxic, safer for the environment and long-lasting

5. Swap Wasteful Sheet Masks for Reusable Options

Most sheet masks are made from synthetic materials that don't fully decompose. On top of that, their packaging creates even more trash. Since each mask is single-use, the waste builds up fast.

Better swap: Biodegradable sheet masks or reusable silicone masks. Orgaid and ESW Beauty offer compostable options. Dieux Skin also sells reusable hydrating masks.

Why it’s better: Less waste, more hydration, and long-term savings.

6. Upgrade to a Bamboo Toothbrush

Plastic toothbrushes may be small, but they create a big waste problem. In fact, billions are thrown away yearly that adds to pollution. Even worse, plastic toothbrushes take centuries to decompose and will remain in landfills for many generations.

Better swap: Bamboo toothbrushes. These biodegradable alternatives are just as useful as plastic ones. The Humble Co. and Brush with Bamboo provide affordable, compostable options.

Why it’s better: Reduces plastic waste and naturally fights bacteria.

7. Replace Disposable Razors with a Safety Razor

Plastic razors dull quickly and need frequent replacements. They're also made of multiple materials that are so hard to recycle, they usually just end up in garbage sites.

Better swap: A stainless steel safety razor. Only the blades need replacing, which makes it a more sustainable option. Try Leaf Shave or Merkur for high-quality choices.

Why it’s better: Lowers plastic waste, saves money and provides a closer shave.

8. Use Compostable Dental Floss

Most dental floss is made from nylon, a material that doesn’t break down naturally. Its plastic container also adds to the garbage problem.

Better swap: Compostable floss made from silk or plant fibers. Cocofloss and Etee offer plastic-free, biodegradable options that are as reliable as regular floss.

Why it’s better: Cuts down on plastic

9. Try Multi-Use Beauty Products

The more products you buy, the more waste you create. Many beauty items come in excessive packaging that take up space and use up resources. One way to reduce waste is to use multipurpose beauty products.

Better swap: Tinted balms for lips, cheeks and eyes simplify your routine. ILIA and RMS Beauty offer lightweight, blendable options.

Why it’s better: Saves money, reduces waste, and simplifies beauty routines

10. Opt for Glass Packaging Instead of Plastic

Plastic packaging is one of the biggest waste contributors in the beauty industry. While some plastics are recyclable, many still end up in dumpsites or oceans. Glass, on the other hand, is fully recyclable and lasts longer.

Better swap: Glass packaging. It keeps products fresh longer and is easier to reuse. Herbivore Botanicals and Tata Harper offer glass packaging instead of plastic.

Why it’s better: Reusable and eco-friendly.

Small Changes, Big Impact

Sustainable beauty doesn’t mean overhauling your entire self-care kit overnight. A shampoo bar here, a refillable lipstick there—each small step adds up over time. Ultimately, your choices can shape a more mindful routine and a healthier planet.

10 FAQs on Sustainable Beauty Swaps

1. Do sustainable beauty products work as well as regular ones?
   Yes! Many perform just as well, if not better, with cleaner ingredients.
2. Are shampoo bars good for all hair types?
   Yes, but choose one that matches your hair needs.
3. How do I clean reusable makeup pads?
   Wash them with mild soap or toss them in the laundry.
4. Is a safety razor hard to use?
   It takes practice, but it gives a closer shave.
5. Do refillable beauty products cost more?
   The upfront cost is higher, but refills save money over time.
6. Can bamboo toothbrushes get moldy?
   Not if stored upright and kept dry between uses.
7. How do I dispose of compostable floss?
   Toss it in a compost bin or bury it in soil.
8. Does powder dry shampoo work for dark hair?
   Yes! Many brands offer tinted versions for darker shades.
9. Are glass-packaged products heavier for travel?
   Slightly, but they are more sustainable and reusable.
10. Where can I buy these sustainable swaps?
    Many eco-conscious brands sell them online and in specialty stores.