When it comes to skincare and makeup, navigating through the sea of products can be overwhelming. With constant misinformation and overpromising, it’s easy to accumulate a cabinet full of broken promises.
Every week, there’s a new “holy grail” product or “hero ingredient” that promises miraculous results. Yet, despite the increasing complexity of our daily routines, we may not necessarily see the desired improvements in our skin or overall well-being.
As a result, many of us find ourselves surrounded by products that don’t work for us, contributing to the growing issue of cosmetic waste. Did you know that more than 10,000 tonnes of cosmetic waste end up in Australian landfills each year?
The beauty industry’s waste problem extends beyond just makeup products. Excessive packaging, impulse buys, and improperly disposed of personal care items all contribute to the environmental impact.
How to Audit Your Beauty Routine
The first step in cleaning up your beauty routine is to take stock of what you already have. Clear out your bathroom cabinets and sort through your products, identifying items that you haven’t used or are likely expired.
Ask yourself: Does this product serve a purpose for me? Would I buy it again? By answering these questions honestly, you can streamline your collection to include only the essentials that truly work for you.
When disposing of unwanted products, be mindful of their recyclability and environmental impact. Some items may need to be disposed of through specialized hazardous waste systems.
Maintaining a Decluttered Cabinet
Once you’ve audited your beauty cabinet, adopt a one-in, one-out policy to prevent future clutter. Shop more strategically, patch-testing samples before committing to full-size products.
Consider consulting a dermatologist for personalized skincare recommendations, reducing the need for trial and error with multiple products.
Embracing Sustainability
Transition to reusable alternatives for single-use items like makeup wipes and period products to minimize your beauty impact. Reusables, refills, and recyclable packaging can significantly reduce your environmental footprint while maintaining your skincare and hygiene routines.
Take proactive steps to audit and declutter your beauty routine today. Not only will you minimize waste, but you’ll also create a more streamlined and effective skincare regimen that aligns with your values and goals.