5 Simple Steps to a Zero Waste Skincare Routine
By Wildr Editor
Brought to you by Activist Skincare, but all opinions are our own.
We only endorse products that we've thoroughly researched and believe to be of high quality. This post contains affiliate links; we may earn a commission at no cost to you.
Are you looking to reduce your environmental impact while maintaining a healthy, glowing complexion? Adopting a zero waste skincare routine is a great way to minimize your carbon footprint and simplify your daily self-care regimen. We also have a travel edition for those ready to jet set on your next adventure.
This is also a friendly reminder that the key to creating a zero waste skincare routine is to buy once and refill, reuse, recycle. All of this goes to waste again without mindful consumption and without the three R’s mentioned above.
That said, here are five simple steps and our favorite products to help you create a sustainable and effective zero waste skincare routine.
Step 1: Cleanse with a Refillable, Low-Waste Cleanser
Start your zero waste skincare routine by cleansing your face with a gentle, eco-friendly cleanser. Look for products that come in refillable or recyclable packaging to minimize waste.
Editor’s Pick: Activist Skincare Sea to Skin Cleansing Gel
The Activist Skincare Sea to Skin Cleansing Gel is a refillable, sustainable makeup remover and cleanser made with nourishing ingredients like grapeseed oil and blue spirulina. Activist Skincare is the Earth's first 100% refillable skincare line and this woman-owned brand offers refill pouches that reduce CO2 emissions and plastic waste, making it a great choice for your zero waste skincare routine.
Step 2: Exfoliate with a Reusable Cloth or Konjac Sponge
Exfoliating helps remove dead skin cells and unclog pores, promoting a brighter, smoother complexion. Instead of using disposable exfoliating wipes or scrubs in plastic packaging, choose a reusable alternative.
Made from an Asian plant, the Konjac Sponge exfoliates while removing makeup and dead skin cells more effectively than your hands.
Editor’s Pick: myHomeBody Natural Konjac Facial Sponges
The myHomeBody Natural Konjac Facial Sponge is a gentle, plant-based exfoliating tool that can be used daily. Infused with activated charcoal and aloe vera, this sponge is biodegradable and compostable, a zero waste beauty gem.
Step 3: Tone with a Reusable Cotton Round and Zero Waste Toner
Toning helps balance your skin's pH and prepares it for the next steps in your skincare routine. Instead of using disposable cotton rounds, switch to reusable ones made from organic cotton or bamboo.
Editor’s Pick: Meow Meow Tweet Face Toner
The Meow Meow Tweet Face Toner comes in a recyclable metal bottle and features organic, plant-based ingredients. Pair this toner with a set of reusable cotton rounds for a zero waste toning solution.
Step 4: Moisturize with a Zero Waste Facial Oil or Balm
Moisturizing is important for maintaining healthy and hydrated skin! Choose a facial oil or balm that comes in eco-friendly packaging and is made with sustainable, organic ingredients. We love bars — shampoo, conditioner, soap, and now hydration bars (see rec below)!
Editor’s Pick: Dew Mighty Bloom Jelly Serum Bar
The Dew Mighty Bloom Essential Starter Kit is a solid, waterless omega-rich serum that comes in a reusable tin. This compact, travel-friendly bar is packed with nourishing ingredients like jojoba oil, flower extracts, and Vitamin C. The rave 5-star reviews prove that this serum bar hydrates, reduces redness, and brightens skin tone.
Step 5: Protect with a Reef-Safe, Zero Waste Sunscreen
Protecting your skin from the sun's harmful rays is essential for maintaining a healthy complexion and preventing premature aging. Opt for a “reef-safe” sunscreen (in quotes because no sunscreen is really reef-safe), that’s also safe for your skin, with ingredients like non-nano zinc oxide. Although all sunscreen washed away in the ocean impacts marine life, there are better and worse sunscreens.
Editor’s Pick: Raw Elements Face + Body Mineral Sunscreen 30 SPF
The Raw Elements Face + Body Mineral Sunscreen is a reef-safe, broad-spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen that comes in a reusable, recyclable tin. This water-resistant formula is made with organic, non-nano zinc oxide and natural ingredients like organic sunflower oil.
Zero Waste Skincare Routine
By incorporating these five simple steps and eco-friendly products into your daily routine, you can create a zero waste skincare regimen that's both effective and sustainable. Remember, small changes can make all the difference.
The most important part about this regimen is that you buy once, and try to refill, reuse, recycle as much as you can, making a permanent change in your skincare.
Thanks for taking this journey to sustainable beauty!
