Cleaner Greener Beauty for a Healthier Planet

You’re here because you care, and that’s already a huge step. With my blend of farm-life wisdom from River Cottage and insider secrets from my time at Lush, I’m here to show you how making small, eco-friendly beauty swaps can have a big impact. It’s easier (and more satisfying) than you might think.

The Hidden Environmental Impact of Beauty Products

The beauty industry hides many environmental costs, and we are only scratching the surface here. For example, while microbeads in rinse-off products like shower gels are banned in the UK, microplastics still sneak into products like lipstick and eyeshadow. Always check for plastics like “polyethylene” in ingredient lists. These tiny plastics contribute to the 51 trillion microscopic pieces floating in our oceans.

And that half-used mascara you threw away? It is likely still sitting in a landfill. Many makeup products contain plastics, heavy metals, and synthetic chemicals that do not break down, and their packaging can leak harmful substances into the environment.

These are just a few examples, but by being mindful of what we use, we can reduce the hidden impact of our beauty routines on the planet.

Eco-Friendly Product Swaps You Can Make Today

Ready to make a difference? Let us get into it.

Shampoo and Conditioner Bars

Shampoo and conditioner bars are a fantastic choice. Just lather them in your hands and work them through your hair. No plastic bottles, no fuss. Plus, they last for ages and are travel friendly. With so many options available, be sure to choose bars that are not only suited to your hair type but also made with safe, high-quality ingredients. You’ll have a zero waste shampoo and conditioner routine in no time.

Reusable Cotton Pads

Sure, cotton pads biodegrade eventually, but why not invest in reusable ones that you can toss in the wash? It’s a small switch that significantly reduces waste in your beauty routine. Reusable cotton pads are now available in most beauty stores, which is great!

Sunscreen and Perfumes

Splashing in the sea with sunscreen sounds harmless, right? Not always. Some sunscreens are packed with chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which are seriously harmful to coral reefs. They can bleach and damage them even in tiny amounts. When you’re picking a sunscreen, look for labels that say “reef safe” or “oxybenzone and octinoxate free” to help protect those fragile underwater worlds.

And it’s not just sunscreen. Fragrances might smell amazing, but synthetic scents can disrupt marine life too, especially when they wash into waterways after a swim or a shower. Choosing fragrance free or naturally scented products is a small switch that is better for your nose and for the ocean.

Refillable Beauty Products

More brands are now offering refills, from solid deodorants to foundation and shower gel. Refilling instead of re-buying reduces packaging waste and saves you money. Take a look at what’s available to enhance your sustainable beauty routine. Or, check out your nearest zero waste store. There are plenty of local options in Exeter.

Multipurpose Products

Opt for products like lipstick that doubles as a blush or a balm that works on your lips, cuticles, and cheeks. These versatile items help you buy less while still looking fabulous. They reduce waste, support a more eco-friendly beauty routine, and with fewer products, you’ll also cut down on packaging.

Compostable and Biodegradable Packaging

When you do need to throw packaging away, opt for compostable or biodegradable options. Brands like Ethique are brilliant at this. They break down naturally instead of hanging around for centuries, making them an excellent choice for eco-conscious beauty enthusiasts.

Reusable Razors Instead of Disposables

Swapping to a reusable razor is an easy but powerful way to cut down on plastic waste. They are built to last, save you money in the long run, and help keep countless disposable razors out of landfill.

DIY Beauty Treatments

Get your kitchen involved. Coconut oil makes a brilliant makeup remover, body moisturiser, and hair mask. Sugar and olive oil? That’s your homemade body scrub. Use an old jam jar and remake it each time you need it. This DIY approach is both eco-friendly and budget-friendly, making it a great choice for a more sustainable beauty routine.

Plastic-Free Dental Care

Toothy tabs, bamboo toothbrushes, and floss made of silk or corn fibre are tiny swaps that cut down plastic waste in a big way. Did you know that a single non-recyclable toothpaste tube can take up to 500 years to decompose in a landfill? Think of all those tubes you have used, and then think how many people there are in the world. It’s a scary thought, you can view here to see if a specific item in your house can be recycled.

Tattoos and Toxic Inks

Thinking about a new tattoo? Heads up. Traditional inks often contain heavy metals like lead and cadmium. These are harmful to your body and can leach into the environment. If you are getting inked, ask your artist about eco-friendly inks.

Embrace Natural Beauty, From Head to Toe

While switching up your beauty routine with eco-friendly swaps is a great start, there’s also something empowering about embracing your natural beauty when it comes to hair care. Rather than relying on heat tools, why not give your hair a break this season?

If you don’t need to use a hair dryer, try air drying instead. Letting your hair dry naturally reduces energy consumption and helps preserve its natural shine. And when it comes to styling, why not ditch the straighteners and let your natural waves shine through? Not only is it gentler on your hair, but it also cuts down on the need for hair products that come in plastic bottles or aerosol cans. Fewer products, less waste, and your hair will thank you for it!

Making Impactful Buying Decisions

One golden rule: buy less, buy better. It’s easy to get caught up in beauty hauls, but do you really need that third highlighter palette? Choosing high-quality, sustainable products and using them up is one of the best things you can do for both your beauty routine and the planet.

The same goes for food. At River Cottage, we focus on organic, seasonal meals made with care and sustainability. Whether it’s beauty products or meals, making conscious choices can positively impact your life and the environment.

You don’t need to overhaul everything overnight. Start with small swaps, like a shampoo bar or reusable cotton pads, and build from there. Every little change adds up. Soon, you’ll have a more eco-friendly routine to feel proud of. Just like the planet, embrace your natural beauty. It doesn’t need much, just a little love and care.