SUSTAINABLE TIPS TO REMOVE YOUR MAKEUP

Makeup is part of many people’s daily or weekly routine. Our skincare routine is incomplete without removing makeup effectively. The residue of makeup can lead to breakouts, skin reactions and premature aging. It’s vital to use a makeup remover which is both sustainable and effective. This article will cover nine ways to remove your makeup in a sustainable way, including our favorite eco friendly makeup removers.

Why is it important to remove makeup in a sustainable manner?

Choose a makeup remover that is environmentally friendly. It will save you money and protect your skin. Most makeup removers are single-use products like cotton swabs or wipes. The waste generated by removing makeup each day can have a negative impact on the environment.

It is better to choose a makeup remover that contains sustainable ingredients. Sustainable makeup removers are not only free of harmful chemicals but also contain natural ingredients which have additional benefits for your skin.

Reusable and natural makeup removers are also more cost-effective in the long term. Organic oils are more cost-effective and multipurpose than conventional makeup removers. Reusable pads are more cost-effective than single-use ones, as they do not need to be changed nearly as often.

What to look for when choosing eco-friendly makeup removers

There are many options available for makeup removers that are sustainable, but what is best for you depends on your skin type and personal preferences. When choosing a makeup removal product, there are some general features to consider to make sure it is a sustainable choice:

• Eco-friendly ingredients: Makeup removers that are sustainable should only contain natural plant-based components. No harmful chemicals or unnatural substances should be added.
• Plastic-free: Choose products that do not contain plastic or plastic packaging.
• Biodegradable or Compostable – In an ideal world, makeup removers that are sustainable will be completely biodegradable.
• Sustainable makeup removers shouldn’t be one-use only. The products should last for a long time and any waste left over should naturally decompose.
• Search for brands who are transparent about how they source ingredients and materials, as well as how they treat workers.

OUR 9 FAVORITE METHOD TO REMOVE MAKEUP SUITABLY

1. Oil Cleansers

Oil cleansing is a great way to remove makeup and impurities, without the irritation and chemicals of traditional makeup removers. These balms and oils can be used to remove makeup and as a daily cleanser. They are also perfect for those with sensitive skin.

There are many sustainable options available today, but Activist Skincare makes one of our favorites oil cleansers.

1)  Activist Skincare Oil Cleansers

Activist Skincare offers three oil-based cleanser that can remove makeup, mascara and sunscreen, while moisturizing the skin and respecting its natural oils.

Sea To Skin Cleansing Gel is our favorite. It smells just like a cool ocean breeze, and it has a beautiful blue color thanks to a natural extract of spirulina. It is a great way to remove makeup, then rinse off. The skin feels soft and dewy without that uncomfortable feeling of being squeaky clean.

All Activist Skincare Products are available in a sustainable glass packaging with refill pouches. Refills can reduce CO2 emissions and plastic waste up to 75% when compared with recycling glass bottles and removing their lids.

2. Eco-Friendly Micellar Water

It is an effective makeup remover that can be used for a long time. Micellar water absorbs makeup and oil while cleaning the pores. Micellar water can be used as a toner and is ideal for sensitive skin. When you opt for an eco-friendly product, it’s alcohol free and contains no harsh chemicals.

Apply micellar water to a cotton round and dab it on your face. Micellar water is not the best makeup remover if you wear waterproof mascara or heavy eye makeup.

Evolve organic beauty

Deep Clean Micellar Water by Evolve Organic Beauty is an excellent makeup remover that’s also environmentally friendly. It is vegan, made from organic micellar waters and does not contain harmful chemicals. It is a gentle cleanser and toner that works for all skin types thanks to the rose and aloe water. Hyaluronic Acid is used in this product to hydrate the skin and give it a healthy glow. Evolve makes its products by hand in small batches, using only organic, vegan and natural ingredients.

Use cleansing water to remove makeup. Pump it onto your favorite reusable cloth, pad or sponge.

3. Organic and Unrefined Oils

Natural oil is a great makeup remover that’s easy to use, affordable, and doesn’t waste any product. Oil can be used to remove stubborn eye makeup. You probably have some at home. There are some things to consider when using oil to remove makeup.

Use only organic and unrefined oils. Olive oil, castor, coconut, and sunflower oils are some of the most common and easily available options. These oils can be used for cooking and body care.

Second, if you are prone to acne, it is important to select an oil that has a low or no comedogenic content. Oil that is comedogenic will clog pores. Rosehip oil is a great option for sensitive or acne-prone skin.

Apply a few drops to a makeup wipe or pad and wipe it before cleansing. Try different oils to discover the one that works best for you.

Use an oil cleanser to remove makeup from your eyes only. For the rest of your face, use one of the other makeup removal products on the list.

4. Facial Cleansing Bars

Cleaning bars are another great makeup remover that produces zero waste. The majority of facial cleansing bars contain natural, chemical-free products and are gentle enough to be used as a makeup remover. The ingredients in facial cleansing bars allow them to be used for a wide range of skin types, and they can also target specific skin issues. For example, charcoal cleansing bars can help blemish-prone skin.

Choose eco-friendly products that are fragrance-free and state explicitly that they can also be used to remove makeup. Choose cleansing bars that come in a reusable or recyclable packaging, or those with no packaging.

Ethique Bliss Bar

The Ethique cleansing bar is ideal for everyday use as a makeup remover and face wash. This vegan bar is made with coconut butter, kaolin clay and other nourishing plant-based ingredients.

To remove makeup, simply wet the bar and rub it with your hands. Each Ethique Bar can be used up to 120 times, and comes in a fully compostable package.

Ethique, a woman-owned business that specializes exclusively in zero-waste vegan skin and hair products.

5. Makeup Remover DIY

Good news! It is easy and affordable to make your own makeup remover. You can make a variety of DIY makeup removers, from water-based to oil-based.

Witch hazel and water are all you need for a simple recipe. To remove makeup, mix equal parts witchhazel and water.

Combine your favorite organic oils with unrefined oils to get additional benefits. You can use oil to remove makeup. However, depending on the skin type you have, you may also want to add rosewater or witch hazel.

Mix equal parts of witch hazel with avocado oil to create an oil-based cleansing product for acne-prone, oily skin. To create a soothing oil cleanser, mix equal parts rose waterr and jojoba.

You don’t want to do it yourself? Many oil-based makeup removal products mimic these homemade recipes. You can try this hempseed-based make-up remover from Dirty Hippie Cosmetics, or Cocokind organic face cleansing oil.

6. Konjac Facial Sponge

Konjac sponges have been gaining popularity in the West for a good reason. These sponges are great for the skin and can be used in many ways. Konjac sponges come from the konjac roots, which are a native vegetable to Asia. Konjac sponges are gentle exfoliators that can be used on your whole body, even your face.

They’re perfect for removing makeup in a sustainable way. Konjac sponges are gentle enough to be used daily. They only require water to remove makeup, even eye makeup. It can be used with your favorite makeup remover or cleanser.

Everist Compostable Konjac Sponge

Everist offers a great konjac sponge for both the face and body. This sponge is made entirely of konjac and is completely biodegradable. After 2-3 months, you can compost the sponge at home.

This sponge is great because it exfoliates gently, is easy-to-clean, and becomes a fluffy, cushy sponge when wet. It feels wonderful on the skin. You only need a small amount to make a lather when you use it in conjunction with a cleanser. After you are done, squeeze the excess water out of the sponge and let it dry.

7. Reusable Makeup Removal Pads

This is the best makeup remover if you like cotton pads that are single-use. The single-use cotton pads are wasteful, and the waste can add up when you think about how often you remove makeup and how many pads.

Reusable round are easier to clean, and they’re better for your skin. These pads last for a long period of time and can easily be washed in between uses. Look for reusable pads made of eco-friendly materials such as cotton or bamboo and made by companies that practice sustainability.

Cocokind Reusable Face Rounds

Cocokind’s reusable, highly absorbent facial rounds are our top choice. These reusable facial rounds are similar in size to the single-use pads you use, but made with bamboo and cotton that is sustainably sourced. Each round is equipped with a hook that you can use to hold it in place. They are also super soft.

Use the round to remove your makeup. Throw the pads into your next laundry load for a thorough clean or handwash.

The pack contains 14 rounds in a mesh bag made from eco-friendly materials. It is easy to carry around your reusable rounds.

8. Sustainable Cleaning Cloths

A facial towel or washcloth is one of the easiest ways to remove your makeup. You may have used this method before, but you probably know how easy it is to stain washcloths. (We’re looking at your mascara!) Plus, the material of the washcloth may not be suitable for your skin. An eco-friendly washcloth is a sustainable alternative to makeup remover.

Choose antibacterial cleaning cloths that are made of natural materials sourced ethically and specifically designed to be used on the face.

Each cloth is hand-spun by a woman-run fair-trade co-op located in Mexico, which also harvests the Agave. Earth Harbor Naturals’ products are shipped in FSC-certified, recycled boxes.

9. Reusable Swabs

Reusable beauty swabs are a great option if you use cotton swabs for removing eye makeup. Cotton swabs are a wasteful product that is difficult to decompose. Swabs are effective in removing eye make-up, so it’s understandable that you don’t want to give them up completely.

There is a more sustainable option. Select a reusable swab that is made of natural materials. The small size makes them easy to store and wash. Reusable swabs are often softer on the skin than those used only once.