Almost all cosmetic packaging is discarded, contributing to significant plastic waste. With thoughtful choices, it is possible to reduce plastic use in personal care products while maintaining effective skincare routines. This article outlines practical steps to minimize plastic waste in your beauty and hygiene habits.
Why this matters
The Australian cosmetics and beauty industry was valued at $17.25 billion in 2025, generating a large volume of waste. Nearly 95% of cosmetic packaging is thrown away, and about 60% of this packaging is plastic. The complex design of many containers, such as spray bottles and pumps, makes recycling difficult. Reducing plastic waste in personal care helps lessen environmental impact and supports sustainability.
Key developments in reducing plastic waste
- Buy less and choose local: Start by purchasing fewer products and selecting locally made items with natural ingredients. Avoid single-use packaging when possible.
- Replace plastic items with sustainable alternatives: Swap plastic loofahs for plant-based ones and replace makeup remover wipes with water and a reusable face towel.
- Choose recyclable materials: Opt for products packaged in glass, aluminium, wood, or paper from certified sources, which are easier to reuse and recycle.
- Focus on products you use fully: Keep a minimal, intentional selection of personal care items to reduce waste from unused products.
Switching from bottles to bars
One of the simplest ways to cut plastic is to replace liquid hand and body wash with bar soap. Many bars are made from natural ingredients and come with minimal or no packaging. Proper ventilation between uses helps maintain the bar’s longevity.
Shampoo and conditioner bars are also viable alternatives. Although early versions were inconsistent, formulations have improved significantly. Brands such as Rowse from Spain and Davines Love from Italy are recommended, with local options available in supermarkets and beauty stores. Performance may vary depending on hair type, so some experimentation might be needed.
Other product categories, including cleansers and deodorants, also offer bar versions. For example, Noosa Basics produces bar deodorants in small aluminium tins that can be reused.
Refillable options and recycling programs
Refillable bottles provide another way to reduce plastic waste. Bulk refill stores, such as The Source Bulk Foods, offer refillable soaps, shampoos, and conditioners. Many supermarkets stock refillable hand and body washes from Australian brands like Thankyou, Koala Eco, Grown Alchemist, Aesop, and Ikkari.
Shampoo and conditioner refills are less common but available from Australian brands Hunter Lab, Skelp, and The Commonfolk. While refill pouches reduce plastic use compared to bottles, they often require specialist recycling as they are not accepted in kerbside collections.
For skincare, choosing glass, aluminium, paper-based, or refillable packaging helps reduce plastic waste. Makeup packaging alternatives are limited, but selecting aluminium, metal alloys, or wooden pencils for eye and lip liners can help minimize plastic use.
Recycling initiatives
Companies like Terracycle and Close the Loop have developed recycling programs for beauty and personal care products. They partner with retailers such as Mecca and Sephora to provide drop-off points for cosmetic empties. Mail-back programs are also available, allowing consumers to collect and send beauty waste for recycling.
Containers do not need to be perfectly clean but should be mostly empty. It is important not to pour unused makeup or body oils down the sink, as these can clog pipes; instead, dispose of them in the bin.
Recommended reading
For more context, see related Peack News coverage and explainers linked below.
