In a world that's increasingly focused on sustainability, it's no surprise that our skincare routines are also evolving to become more environmentally friendly.

If you're looking to minimize your carbon footprint and make a positive impact on the planet, transforming your skincare regimen is a great place to start.

In this post, we offer some practical tip for you to create an eco-friendly skincare routine that nourishes both your skin and the Earth.

1. Use Less Water

While water covers 70% of our planet, freshwater is exceptionally rare. Only 3% of the world’s water is fresh water, and two-thirds of that is unavailable for our use. By 2025, two-thirds of the world’s population may face water shortages. Yet, the skincare industry worsens this problem.

The extensive utilization of water in skincare products leads to a substantial environmental impact, which includes consequences such as depleting water resources and generating more waste. What can you do?

So the first step towards an eco-friendly skincare routine is to use less water. Choose waterless skincare brands that formulate products without water. In doing so, they collectively save thousands of gallons of water each year, reducing environmental strain and supporting sustainable practices.

What else can you do? Be mindful of the amount of water you use during your skincare routine. Turn off the tap while you're applying products or lathering up. This simple step can save gallons of water over time.

At WTRZEN, we feel so strongly about minimizing the use of water that we built an entire company around this idea.

2. Go with Natural Ingredients

Switch to skincare products made from natural and organic ingredients. These products are not only better for your skin but also for the environment.

They are often produced using sustainable farming practices and do not contain harmful chemicals that can pollute waterways.

3. Support Ethical and Eco-Friendly Brands

Do some research and choose skincare brands that prioritize sustainability and ethical practices. Look for certifications such as organic, cruelty-free, or fair trade.

Brands that are transparent about their processes and values are more likely to align with your desire for a greener skincare routine. By supporting these brands, you are encouraging more companies to adopt eco-friendly practices.

4. Streamline Products and Embrace Multi-Use

Declutter your collection. Evaluate your products and eliminate those you rarely use. By focusing on quality over quantity, you'll not only reduce waste but also simplify your routine.

Along with the above, avoid using single-use skincare products whenever possible.

Instead, select products that serve multiple purposes, such as a moisturizer that also offers sun protection or a cleanser that doubles as a makeup remover. Sheet masks can be replaced with clay masks that come in reusable containers.

You can also trade disposable cotton pads or wipes to remove makeup, switch to reusable makeup remover pads. These can be washed and reused, reducing the amount of waste generated.

By using fewer products and shifting to multi-use, you reduce the overall environmental impact of your routine.

5. Avoid Microbeads

Microbeads pose a significant threat to the environment due to their small size and non-biodegradable nature. When used in personal care products, these plastic particles are washed into waterways, contributing to marine pollution, and negatively impacting aquatic ecosystems.

Marine animals ingest microbeads, leading to internal harm and facilitating the transfer of toxins up the food chain, ultimately affecting both wildlife and potentially human health. As persistent plastic pollutants, microbeads disrupt ecosystems, alter habitats, and contribute to long-term pollution.

Instead, opt for skincare products that contain eco-friendly alternatives like natural exfoliants like sugar, salt, or jojoba beads instead.

6. Recycle Properly

Dispose of skincare product containers and packaging correctly. Rinse containers thoroughly before recycling to prevent contamination. Check used packaging can be recycled. If so, recycle it according to local guidelines.

Many brands now offer recycling programs or accept empty containers in-store.

7. Support Sustainable Packaging Initiatives

Advocate for change by supporting initiatives that push for sustainable beauty packaging. Your voice matters, and your demand for eco-friendly options can drive positive industry change.

Look for skincare products that come in sustainable packaging. Opt for products that come in minimal, glass, biodegradable, or recyclable plastic containers instead of single-use plastic. Some brands also offer refillable options. This reduces the amount of waste that ends up in landfills or oceans.

8. Consider Refill Programs

Some brands offer refill programs where you can replenish your favorite products in-store using less packaging. This helps reduce plastic waste.

9. Mindful Application

Apply products with care to avoid wastage. Use just enough to cover your skin and extend the life of each product.

10. DIY Skincare

Finally, try experimenting with creating your own skincare products using natural ingredients. This allows you to control the ingredients and reduce packaging waste. Homemade masks, scrubs, and serums allow you to control the ingredients and minimize reliance on commercially produced items. There are plenty of online resources and recipes available to help you get started.

Conclusion

Creating an eco-friendly skincare routine isn't just about embracing a trend—it's a commitment to the health of your skin and the planet. By making conscious choices, you're not only nurturing your skin's well-being but also contributing to a greener world.

With these practical tips, you'll be well on your way to achieving a radiant glow that reflects your dedication to both personal beauty and environmental stewardship.

Until next time.

With love and empowered choices,
Team WTRZEN

At WTRZEN, we strive to minimize our negative impact on the physical environment and actively look for opportunities to restore it. That's why we carefully select only the purest, most eco-friendly ingredients from sustainable suppliers, ensuring that they are natural and cruelty-free.

All of our products are waterless, vegan, with no GMOs, phthalates, fragrance, or parabens added to formulations. Our manufacturing partners use renewable energy, carbon neutral shipping, and compostable packaging. We believe that small changes can make a big difference, and we are always looking for ways to improve our practices and reduce our carbon footprint.

Our partner Green Specialty Ingredients, supply an extensive range of natural ingredients for a variety of personal care markets, including skincare. Their business was founded on the idea that offering customers clean ingredients from sustainably managed sources to remain in harmony with nature.