Cotton, brushes, moisturizer: Alternatives for a more eco-friendly beauty routine

20200914 Makeup brushes stock
Less flexible, synthetic bristle brushes can be used to apply foundation, concealer, or lipstick. Image: Unsplash/Raphael Lovaski via AFP Relaxnews.

Are you tired of regularly seeing your cosmetics singled out as being harmful to health and the environment? Instead of constantly scrutinizing the hundreds of products in your bathroom, do an eco-friendly edit by sorting through them and getting rid of everything that is not in line with your environmental commitments.

Say goodbye to cotton, brushes, nail polish and moisturizers. Here are the best alternatives to make your bathroom more sustainable.

Farewell to cotton

It has been known for several years that cotton has a considerable impact on the environment. While many women have chosen to turn to organic cotton to remove their makeup, we are still a long way off from zero waste. But do not fear, the solution is neither expensive nor complicated to implement. Washable makeup removal squares or makeup removal wipes are the perfect alternative.

You won’t have to put anything in the trash because you can throw them in with your laundry and there are many tutorials to help you design them yourself.

Brushes but not just any kind

You are probably used to paying attention to the labels of your favorite cosmetics, but did you know that your brushes are likely made of natural animal hair? At least some of them are.

Animal welfare may not really be top of mind when you are looking for the brush that will help you achieve perfect contouring. Fortunately, more brands are offering alternatives that are not necessarily less effective. They may be slightly less supple, but brushes made of synthetic bristles can just as easily be used to apply foundation, concealer or lipstick. And if you choose one with handles made of certified wood, even better.

Vegetable oils instead of moisturizers

Certain moisturizers may contain allergenic, irritating or even carcinogenic components. Of course, not all moisturizers do, but that should not prevent you from turning to more natural products to address this problem.

Vegetable oils are an ideal solution provided you choose organic and, if possible, with a first cold pressing for increased virtues. There is a host of them with various properties, but are generally always nourishing, such as avocado, apricot, borage or shea . There is even one that you likely already have in your kitchen: olive oil — which is perfect for the body, face and hair.

What about nail polish?

Nail polishes also contain harmful components, but their case is much more complicated because there are very few alternatives to replace them.

A growing number of brands are offering organic or natural nail polish, but it is important to be careful regarding the components. The palettes may also be not as extensive as regular nail polish. It seems the only true solution for the most committed women is to sport natural fingertips. CC

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