Last Updated on January 26, 2023 by Our Editors
The beauty industry is one of the most wasteful verticals and it doesn’t need any further introduction than that. But what needs some attention is that several beauty and makeup brands are trying to travel the right path. Apart from adopting cruelty-free and clean beauty credentials, beauty brands are orienting their attention towards being zero-waste.
As consumers all around the globe are tilting towards more environmentally sound alternatives, the shift towards zero-waste is quite obvious. Another factor behind the rise of zero-waste beauty brands is the changing brand philosophy. While known names such as L’Oreal, Maybelline and Révlon are synonymous with beauty, they are also guilty of greenwashing to seem more appealing to consumers.
But hey, if internet has made stealth so feasible, it has also worked wonders for those who want a clear picture about what they are using. This explains why more people are keen about going for brands that don’t lie and are sincere about their commitment to the environment. We have come a long way in this respect.
Going zero-waste figures in these environmental and ethical commitments. With a lot of plastic waste infesting the world’s oceans and landfills, it is easy to see why single use packaging is harmful. A lot of the waste pile is composed of plastic make up tubes and other related equipment that takes years to break down. When it does, it releases a ton of toxins and microplastics that hang in there for quite a bit- for years, going up to centuries. Combined with chemically loaded formulae in the residue that sticks around in these tubes, the waste can wreak an unimaginable havoc on delicate ecosystems.
Things would have been more pleasant if not for this annual load of 120 billion tonnes of toxic waste. This is why the transition towards zero-waste beauty is momentous, even if it looks like another dear little trend that has hopped in the beauty industry kitty to make it look more appealing to eco-conscious consumers.
In addition to packaging, these zero waste beauty brands also focus on using safer and eco-friendly ingredients. By choosing such alternatives, consumers can embrace planet-positive beauty that doesn’t threaten life-forms.
Although there are many aspersions that are cast on the viability of zero-waste beauty brands, the bottom line is rather positive. The vision of a world with less waste floating around is quite an ideal picture. As a consumer, you can be a part of this change by switching to brands that are indeed zero-waste, besides being cruelty-free and paraben-free. It’s time to take a look at the best of the lot, with our list of 15 such gems from the eco-conscious beauty universe.
The Refillable Renaissance: Zero Waste Beauty Brands
Zero-waste beauty brands are dedicated to creating high-quality products that are gentle on the skin and the planet, while also minimizing their environmental footprint.
Such brands focus on sustainable packaging made of reusable and recyclable materials, such as glass and aluminum. The containers can be easily recycled after use, or can be given an extended lease by replenishing them with refills. These practices cut the crap, quite literally and minimise the waste generated by the cosmetics industry.
Zero-waste beauty brands also tend to use natural ingredients that are free of harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances. These ingredients are gentle on the skin and are often formulated to nourish and protect the skin.
In addition to their commitment to sustainability and natural ingredients, many of these brands are certified cruelty-free by organizations such as PETA, meaning they do not test their products on animals.
Why Go Zero-Waste With Makeup?
Zero-waste makeup is extremely helpful to the environment in several ways. By making a thoughtful switch, you can contribute to-
A Cleaner Planet
Standard cosmetics are manufactured with heedless abandon that poses a significant risk to the environment. Single-use packaging and toxic ingredients form a major part of the catastrophe that ruins the health and appearance of our ecosystems.
Making the switch to zero-waste beauty brands that offer refills and recyclable packaging reduces the stress on the environment. It means a cleaner planet that can support life instead of choking it with stray plastic hurdles.
A Lighter Pocket
As well as saving the environment, you could start to save some money. If you’re buying refills instead of the entire product again, the price tag will be a little lower.
Zero-waste products don’t contain a smaller amount of makeup; in fact, you will probably receive more for your money due to how long the items will last.
It Can Help You Become a Conscious Shopper
River Organics is a zero-waste cosmetics brand that is focused on reducing plastic waste and offering all-natural beauty products for all skin types. One of the unique features of River Organics is their innovative packaging, which is made from fully compostable paper tubes and sugar cane. All of the brand’s products, including makeup and skincare items, are thoughtfully packaged in these eco-friendly materials.
As zero-waste makeup products are not widely available in high street stores yet, you have to undertake a good amount of research before purchasing.
By doing research and not just impulsively buying products, you can consider whether you actually need them and whether you could save money in the long run.
Go the Extra Mile in Embracing Being Zero-Waste
Additionally, there are several ways to make your makeup routine more sustainable and minimize waste:
- A. Opt for compostable packaging: Some zero waste makeup brands offer packaging that can be broken down and used as fertilizer once it has served its purpose.
- B. Consider refillable makeup: Many zero waste brands offer refillable products, which allow you to reuse the same packaging multiple times. This helps to reduce waste and save money in the long term.
- C. Select multipurpose makeup: Another way to minimize waste is to choose makeup that can serve multiple purposes. For example, instead of purchasing separate products for lip tint, blush, and eye shadow, look for 3-in-1 makeup that can perform all of these functions.
15 Plastic-Free Beauty Brands That are Doing Zero-Waste the Right Way
Axiology
On top of our list for beauty brands that are plastic-free is Axiology. The brand’s focus on on sustainable packaging adds to its reputation of being truly zero-waste and ethical. Axiology is also cruelty-free certified by PETA and is committed to promoting sustainable agriculture and environmental health via it’s Trees For Future intiative.
Elate Cosmetics
Elate cosmetics is a makeup brand that is dedicated to creating high-quality, all-natural products that are gentle on the skin and the planet. The brand holds fast to its zero-waste commitment and offers its range in recyclable and reusable packaging. It’s also PETA certified cruelty-free and is a member of the Zero Waste Beauty Collective.
Dab Herb Makeup
Founded on the basis of Nature to Nurture philosophy, Dab Herb Makeup and Skin Care holds itself to a high standard when it comes to being eco-friendly. Besides focussing on products enriched with botanical infusions, Dab Herb is cruelty-free and offers zero-waste packaging that can be used again to store refills, or any of your little handmade trinkets.
Clean-Faced Cosmetics Beauty
Clean Faced Cosmetics is committed to sustainability and making a planet positive impact with its range of natural makeup that is packed in reusable containers and pallettes. The brand has registered an impressive reputation as it is also ethical apart from being zero-waste. The products are versatile- which means you can use a single product for a variety of tasks.
Flavedo and Albedo
Flavedo & Albedo makeup is a cosmetics brand that is dedicated to sustainability and reducing the environmental impact of the beauty industry. Flavedo & Albedo makeup is also committed to ethical practices and regularly offers an “Imperfect Picks” sale where customers can purchase slightly damaged makeup at a discounted price. This helps to prevent waste and promotes more sustainable consumption.
Rivers organics
Zerra & Co.
Zerra and Co. is a cosmetics brand that is committed to sustainability and reducing the environmental impact of the beauty industry. Based in the United Kingdom, this brand offers a range of all-natural makeup and skincare products that are formulated with ingredients that are gentle on the skin and the planet.
Nudi Goods
Nudi goods makeup is a cosmetics brand that is dedicated to sustainability and reducing the environmental impact of the beauty industry. Based in the United States, this brand offers a range of all-natural makeup and skincare products that are formulated with ingredients that are gentle on the skin and the planet.
Izzy
Izzy is a cosmetics brand that is committed to sustainability and reducing the environmental impact of the beauty industry. Based in the United States, this brand offers a range of all-natural makeup and skincare products that are formulated with ingredients that are gentle on the skin and the planet.
One of the key features of Izzy is their focus on eco-friendly packaging. All of the brand’s products are packaged in reusable or recycled materials, including glass and aluminum, which can be easily recycled after use. This helps to reduce the amount of plastic waste that is generated by the cosmetics industry.
Kjaer Weis
Kjaer Weiss makeup is a cosmetics brand that is dedicated to sustainability and reducing the environmental impact of the beauty industry. Based in Denmark, this brand offers a range of all-natural makeup and skincare products that are formulated with ingredients that are gentle on the skin and the planet.
Eco Roots
Eco Roots makeup is a cosmetics brand that is dedicated to sustainability and reducing the environmental impact of the beauty industry. Based in the United States, this brand offers a range of all-natural makeup and skincare products that are formulated with ingredients that are gentle on the skin and the planet.
Zao Organic Makeup
Zao organic makeup is a cosmetics brand that is dedicated to sustainability and reducing the environmental impact of the beauty industry. Based in France, this brand offers a range of all-natural makeup and skincare products that are formulated with ingredients that are gentle on the skin and the planet.
One of the unique features of Zao organic makeup is their focus on sustainable packaging. All of the brand’s products are packaged in reusable or recycled materials, including glass and bamboo, which can be easily recycled after use. This helps to reduce the amount of plastic waste that is generated by the cosmetics industry.
In addition to their commitment to sustainability, Zao organic makeup is also known for their high-quality products. From their nourishing facial oils and moisturizers to their long-lasting lip colors and eyeshadows, this brand has something for everyone. All of their products are formulated with natural ingredients that are free of harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances, making them suitable for even the most sensitive skin.
If you are looking for a cosmetics brand that is dedicated to sustainability and natural ingredients, Zao organic makeup is definitely worth considering. Whether you are in search of a new foundation, eye shadow, or facial oil, this brand has something for you. With their focus on sustainable packaging and high-quality products, Zao organic makeup is a brand that truly cares about the environment and the well-being of its customers.
Besame
Besame makeup is a cosmetics brand that is dedicated to sustainability and reducing the environmental impact of the beauty industry. Based in the United States, this brand offers a range of all-natural makeup and skincare products that are formulated with ingredients that are gentle on the skin and the planet.
One of the key features of Besame makeup is their focus on sustainable packaging. All of the brand’s products are packaged in reusable or recycled materials, including glass and aluminum, which can be easily recycled after use. This helps to reduce the amount of plastic waste that is generated by the cosmetics industry.
In addition to their commitment to sustainability, Besame makeup is also known for their high-quality products. From their nourishing facial oils and moisturizers to their long-lasting lip colors and eyeshadows, this brand has something for everyone. All of their products are formulated with natural ingredients that are free of harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances, making them suitable for even the most sensitive skin.
If you are looking for a cosmetics brand that is dedicated to sustainability and natural ingredients, Besame makeup is definitely worth considering. Whether you are in search of a new foundation, eye shadow, or facial oil, this brand has something for you. With their focus on sustainable packaging and high-quality products, Besame makeup is a brand that truly cares about the environment and the well-being of its customers.
Tata Harper
Tata Harper is a luxury skincare and makeup brand that is dedicated to creating high-quality, all-natural products that are gentle on the skin and the planet. Based in Vermont, this brand is known for its commitment to sustainability and ethical practices.
One of the standout features of Tata Harper is their use of natural ingredients that are free of harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances. From their nourishing facial oils and moisturizers to their long-lasting lip colors and eyeshadows, this brand has a range of products that are suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
In addition to their all-natural ingredients, Tata Harper is also known for their commitment to sustainability. The brand uses recycled materials in their packaging and works closely with their suppliers to remove plastic from their supply chain. Tata Harper is also certified cruelty-free by PETA, meaning they do not test their products on animals.
Ethique
Ethique is a New Zealand-based beauty brand that is committed to reducing waste in the cosmetics industry. The brand’s natural product line is completely plastic-free and features palm oil-free, vegan, and cruelty-free products that are free of harmful ingredients such as SLS, phthalates, and parabens. In addition to these eco-friendly characteristics, Ethique is also certified climate-neutral and a B-Corp, meaning it meets high standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. The company also donates a portion of its yearly revenue or profit to charitable causes.
The founder of Ethique was inspired to start the company due to the high levels of waste generated by the cosmetics industry, particularly plastic waste from bathroom products. After learning about the shocking fact that up to 90% of a bottle of conditioner is just water, she decided to take action by studying cosmetic chemistry and developing a solid shampoo as a more sustainable alternative. This decision not only addressed the issue of water waste, but also reduced plastic waste by eliminating the need for a bottle.
Ethique’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond just their products. The company also prioritizes ethical and sustainable sourcing of ingredients, and works with suppliers that adhere to fair trade practices. Additionally, Ethique uses recycled materials for their packaging and works with eco-friendly shipping partners to minimize their carbon footprint. Overall, Ethique is a brand that truly cares about the environment and is dedicated to creating products that are not only good for the consumer, but also good for the planet.
