While it can feel a little overwhelming when you start to think about the issues facing the world at the moment, one area that absolutely deserves our attention is the environment. With countless reports showing just how serious the situation is at the moment, it’s not something we can afford to ignore.
Luckily, there are lots of little things we can do to help out. Going green with your beauty routine is a great way to reduce your environmental impact and improve your health, so here are four simple ways to get started.
- Use natural, organic, and cruelty-free products
It’s no secret that for a long time, the beauty industry has been mired in cruelty scandals. While it’s getting better thanks to changes in consumer priorities, it’s still an area that you need to be aware of.
Many conventional beauty products are made with harsh chemicals that can be harmful to your skin and the environment. Switching to natural and organic products can reduce your exposure to these chemicals and help protect the planet. Look for products that are cruelty-free, meaning they haven’t been tested on animals.
- Ditch the single-use plastics
Many beauty products come in single-use packaging, such as plastic bottles and containers. These items can take hundreds of years to decompose and contribute to the growing problem of plastic pollution.
Instead, opt for products that come in reusable or biodegradable packaging. An increasingly popular solution is to use things like conditioner bars. Instead of coming in a single use plastic container, these natural soap bars often come wrapped in paper, and can be placed in a multi-use soap box once you’ve started using them.
- Make your own beauty products
You can save money and reduce your environmental impact by making your own beauty products at home. There are many recipes online for natural and organic skincare, haircare, and makeup.
Some common ingredients you can use include honey, avocado, coconut oil, and essential oils. You don’t have to make all of your beauty products at home, of course, but even if you just make one or two, you’ll be making a little difference.
- Choose products with minimal processing and packaging
When shopping for beauty products, look for items that have been minimally processed and packaged. This can help reduce the environmental impact of the product and make it more sustainable. Simple rules to follow include avoiding products that come in excessive packaging or have a long list of ingredients that you don’t recognize.
By incorporating these simple steps into your beauty routine, you can help reduce your environmental impact and improve your health. Not only will you be doing your part to protect the planet, but you’ll also be taking better care of yourself, as many of the products that are better for the environment are also better for our bodies.
