It’s no secret that the average person’s hygiene practices accumulate quite a bit of waste over the course of a year. Just think of all the bottles, tubes and single-use products end up in your trash can. On top of that, many of these materials may contain ingredients that are harmful to you and the environment. Consider a handful of simple changes you can make to reduce your ecological footprint.
1. Opt for Reusable Products
One of the easiest ways to keep your trash can from filling up so fast is to stay away from single-use products. These include everything from cotton swabs to makeup wipes to disposable razors. Many of these items can be replaced with reusable alternatives that are much the same as the products you are used to. For example, you may wish to consider purchasing cotton rounds that can be used to remove makeup and then be washed and used again. Similarly, consider investing in a better quality razor that will stay sharp for a longer period of time.
2. Cut Back on the Amount You Use
Another quick way to cut back on waste is to try to reduce how much of different hygiene and cosmetic products you use each day. This will save you from having to buy new containers (and throw away the old ones) as often. Consider whether you really need the full amount of toothpaste or hair conditioner you normally use. It may not be easy to make these adjustments at first, so remember to take it one step at a time. You may even be able to work towards a more sustainable routine alongside a friend or by using sites or apps such as Persus that help you track your progress.
3. Buy Products With Sustainable Packaging
Though it may require a larger investment initially, it is important to be mindful of the type of packing each of your products comes in. It is best to avoid plastic bottles and tubes as much as possible. Try looking for products that come in glass or metal containers or ones that can be refilled. Alternatively, consider switching to materials that don’t require any packaging at all, such as bar soaps and shampoos. Even items such as hair and toothbrushes can be bought in more sustainable forms. Look for wooden or bamboo options that are biodegradable.
4. Always Check the Ingredients List
Another tip to keep in mind is that even if a product comes in sustainable packaging, what’s inside may be environmentally harmful. Many hygiene products, including shampoo, sunscreen and deodorant, contain a long list of chemicals that may not be good for you or the Earth. Remember to check this list and to opt for products that contain mainly natural ingredients. This is especially important when you are near bodies of water, as reefs and aquatic life may be negatively impacted by some of these chemicals.
5. Get Your Hands Dirty
A final way you can reduce your waste and be more eco-friendly is to make some of your own products. For example, some people use baking soda to make their own toothpaste. Similarly, there are homemade options for shampoo. While this may take some extra time, it will likely decrease the number of containers you must dispose of while saving you money at the same time.
There is a reason that so many people choose to purchase products that may harm the environment. These products are readily available and often cheaper than more eco-friendly alternatives. It is challenging to adjust your daily beauty routine, but these practices may make a big difference as more and more people see the merit in being conscious of the environment.
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