Zero Waste Face Moisturizer: Some Sustainable Solutions
Finding the best zero waste face moisturizer poses challenges due to the diverse options available online. This article explores the significance of zero waste practices, zero waste skincare brands and useful tips for obtaining zero waste face moisturizers. Readers are guided toward sustainable beauty solutions that prioritize personal well-being and environmental stewardship.
Finding a natural face moisturizer can be challenging for several reasons. Many labels exist online - on Amazon, this will commonly be a certified Climate Pledge Friendly product, which is audited by a third party like Climate Partners.
The challenge is going organic or sustainable - as moisturizers can differ in terms of their properties, manufacturing type, and packaging/transport to deliver your product. Often, homemade moisturizers will be the ones that are the most organic.
Nonetheless, it takes some time to find something. In this article, we will go through some of the main points you should consider when it comes to zero waste eco-friendly moisturizers.
1. Why Zero Waste?
Factors such as eco-friendly packaging, pro-environmental belief, and para-social interaction positively influence consumers' altruistic motivation and purchase intention of zero-waste cosmetic products. (Prakash et al., 2024)
You may wonder, why does zero waste matter? It's important for both brands and customers, albeit for different reasons..
Eco-friendly packaging, pro-environmental beliefs, and para-social interaction drive consumers' altruistic motivation and purchase intention of zero-waste cosmetic products (Prakash et al., 2024).
The cosmetics industry is increasingly focusing on sustainability across the entire life cycle of cosmetic products, from design and development to post-consumer phases.
Sustainable practices include substituting conventional ingredients with eco-friendly alternatives, employing green chemistry synthesis, and implementing innovative manufacturing processes to reduce environmental impact.
Factors such as eco-friendly packaging, pro-environmental belief, and para-social interaction positively influence consumers' altruistic motivation and purchase intention of zero-waste cosmetic products. (Prakash et al., 2024)
The study by Ana M. Martins and Joana M. Marto on the sustainable life cycle for cosmetics is relevant to the topic of zero waste face moisturizers.
This is because it addresses the broader concept of sustainability in the beauty industry.
Our Pick ⭐ Dr. Bronner's - Organic Magic Balm
Our Pick ⭐ Dr. Bronner's - Organic Magic Balm
Why Is It Our Pick? 🤔
Dr. Bronner's Organic Magic Balm is a top choice for a zero waste face moisturizer due to its sustainable ingredients, multi-purpose use, and cruelty-free certification.
With organic and fair trade ingredients, it minimizes environmental impact while providing versatile skincare benefits.
Choosing this balm aligns with ethical and sustainable skincare practices, making it an ideal option for conscious consumers.
By examining sustainable practices from the design and development of cosmetics to their post-use phase, including recycling and reuse, it provides insights into how cosmetic products can be produced and managed in a more environmentally friendly manner, aligning with the zero waste approach sought in sustainable beauty solutions.
The cosmetics industry is increasingly focusing on sustainability across the entire life cycle of cosmetic products.
Sustainability efforts begin in the design and development phase, influencing subsequent stages of product development.
Strategies include substituting conventional ingredients with sustainable alternatives, using fair-trade ingredients, and employing green chemistry synthesis.
Upcycling agro-food industry byproducts into value-added ingredients and developing waterless products are also key sustainability measures.
During manufacturing, innovative factories are being implemented to reuse water and energy, reducing environmental impact.
Consumer education initiatives aim to promote sustainable use of cosmetics, contributing to a more eco-conscious consumer base.
In the post-consumer phase, emphasis is placed on recycling, reusing, or refilling packaging to minimize landfill disposal.
Addressing the carbon footprint from distribution phases is also recognized as an important aspect of sustainability in the cosmetics industry.
2. Zero Waste Eco-Friendly Moisturizer : Recommended Brands
After conducting some research, I discovered several eco-friendly moisturizer brands that I can confidently recommend. Each of these brands offers unique features and was selected for specific reasons. Considering the scope of my findings, I decided to categorize them into two sections. One for recommended brands and one for additional tips. This is followed by a third section specifically for oil-free face moisturizers.
This section is about a variety of options for sustainable skincare, ranging from zero waste products to brands with take-back programs for recycling. Additionally, considerations are given to packaging materials and sustainability initiatives of mainstream brands.
2.1 Foraged Fields
Foraged Fields is an exemplary brand that I highly recommend as a zero-waste and eco-friendly moisturizer option.
Based in Vermont, Foraged Fields is an all-natural cosmetics company founded in 2012 by a woman-operated team that has now expanded to a power duo couple.
Their commitment to environmental consciousness is evident in their practices and values, prioritizing the well-being of our planet and its inhabitants.
What sets Foraged Fields apart is their dedication to offering zero waste moisturizers packaged in reusable or recyclable glass jars.
Their products are truly natural, organic, and plant-based, reflecting their ethos of sustainability and care for the Earth.
By choosing Foraged Fields, not only are you nourishing your skin with high-quality ingredients, but you are also contributing to the preservation of the environment.
2.2 Ethique
Ethique is an excellent choice for a zero waste moisturizer brand. Their solid creams in push-up compostable tubes and top-rated facial moisturizers showcase their commitment to sustainability.
As a "Best for the World" B Corp honoree, they exceed social, sustainability, and environmental standards.
Ethique uses cruelty-free, PETA certified vegan ingredients and is palm oil-free.
Their plastic-free, home-compostable packaging reduces pollution and wildlife impact while supporting initiatives like planting one tree for every order through Ecologi.
Ethique's dedication to sustainability and ethical practices makes them a standout choice for zero waste skincare.
2.3 Etsy
Etsy is cool because of the sheer magnitude of options it provides.
If you find yourself looking for a "vegan moisturizer" on Etsy, you will quickly find various options packaged in glass bottles, which are essentially great eco-friendly choices.
In addition, Etsy provides a great variety of lotion bars, which are essentially solid moisturizers that can also easily be packaged in eco-friendly materials.
For example, the SunshineCompany Shop is one such Etsy shop that provides zero waste moisturizers in kraft tubes.
Original and rather authentic, no?
2.4 Dr. Bronner’s Organic Magic Balm
Dr. Bronner's Organic Magic Balm stands out for its sustainability features, which have been recognized by trusted certifications.
With a commitment to organic content, this product contains at least 95% organic material, certified by USDA Organic.
What's more, it is available in recyclable and reusable aluminum tin packaging, further enhancing its eco-friendly credentials.
2.5 Plaine
Plaine Products offers an excellent selection of zero waste moisturizers, and I highly recommend them for several reasons..
Firstly, their commitment to sustainability and reducing single-use plastics is commendable.
By using aluminum bottles instead of plastic, Plaine Products ensures that their packaging is easily and completely recyclable without any loss in quality. This means that the bottles can be reused multiple times, reducing the need for single-use plastic containers that often end up in landfills or oceans.
Additionally, their eco-friendly packaging includes boxes made from 100% recycled material, further minimizing environmental impact. Plaine Products also supports the circular economy by cleaning and reusing their bottles, which not only reduces waste but also creates jobs.
Overall, their dedication to sustainability, coupled with high-quality zero waste moisturizers, makes Plaine Products a fantastic choice for eco-conscious consumers.
2.6 Attitude Living
Attitude Living impresses me with its dedication to reducing plastic waste and championing eco-friendly practices.
Their EWG Verified, vegan, cruelty-free products not only benefit the environment but also prioritize our health.
I appreciate their commitment to using clean, naturally sourced ingredients and their transparent, innovative approach, demonstrated by their in-house laboratory and factory.
Opting for Attitude Living means choosing high-performance, clean beauty and home products while supporting the mission of reducing plastic waste and promoting environmental wellness.
Plus, as a Canadian brand, their refillable moisturizers, available in Canada, are a testament to their commitment to sustainability. If you are a Canadian looking for a Canadian zero waste face moisturizer brand, I highly recommend this brand.
2.7 Lush
Lush is a brand I highly recommend for eco-friendly skincare options.
Their moisturizing bars come in eco-friendly packaging, while their direct approach with refillable lotion bars, available in-store, offers a low-waste solution.
Beyond products, Lush supports Fair Trade and Community Trade initiatives, prioritizes reducing packaging waste, and actively addresses plastic recapture.
They source sustainable raw materials, like palm oil alternatives, and boast high levels of recycled content in their packaging.
Lush also works to reduce energy and water consumption and maintains transparent communication about their environmental commitments through initiatives like their Green Policy and Black Pot recycling scheme.
Overall, Lush's dedication to sustainability and their range of eco-friendly skincare options make them a top choice for conscientious consumers.
2.8 Activist Skincare
As a brand, Activist Skincare embodies sustainability and environmental responsibility.
They use recyclable and refillable glass bottles and jars, along with lightweight refill pouches, to minimize waste and emissions.
Proud members of 1% for the Planet, they donate at least 1% of their sales revenue to environmental advocacy.
Their products are vegan, cruelty-free, and formulated with gentle, effective ingredients. They prioritize ethical sourcing and manufacturing, ensuring fair treatment for employees.
With their refillable skincare system, they reduce plastic waste and carbon dioxide emissions from shipping. Activist Skincare sets a commendable standard for conscious consumerism in skincare.
2.9 Earth Hero
EarthHero, a platform dedicated to sustainable living and eco-conscious choices.
They are all about making it easier for you to embrace a greener lifestyle without compromising on quality or effectiveness.
When it comes to skincare, especially zero waste face moisturizers, EarthHero is the place to be;
From careful curation of collections, handpicking brands that share their commitment to the planet, EarthHero truly sets itself apart from its focus on eco-friendly packaging, ethical sourcing, and sustainable production practices. So when you shop with them, you're not just taking care of your skin; you're also supporting brands that are making a positive impact on the environment.
Certified as a B Corp and contributing to the 1% for the Planet initiative, every purchase you make with them will contribute to a brighter, cleaner future, including zero waste face moisturizers.
2.10 The Ordinary
The Ordinary, known for its skincare products, offers a range of products in glass bottles that can be returned for recycling at their stores.
While not fully sustainable, 'The Ordinary' is committed to minimizing its environmental impact. This includes ethical sourcing of ingredients and a commitment to continuously improve all areas of operations.
The brand is also cruelty-free, with no testing on animals conducted on finished products or ingredients by suppliers or third parties.
2.11 Meow Meow Tweet
Meow Meow Tweet stands out to me because of its strong commitment to sustainability and ethical practices.
Their 100% backyard compostable deodorant sticks and lip balms, along with their use of vegan, cruelty-free ingredients from regenerative farming practices, reflect their dedication to the planet.
Beyond products, their values-driven approach shines through in their fair treatment of their team, offering living wages, generous benefits, and a supportive work environment.
Operating with waste reduction as a core principle, their microfactory further demonstrates their commitment to environmental stewardship.
Meow Meow Tweet isn't just a skincare brand; it's a beacon of conscious consumerism and a testament to the positive impact businesses can have on the world. Cool, no?
2.12 Fat And The Moon
Fat and the Moon embodies a holistic approach to self-care, offering zero waste face moisturizers crafted with locally sourced herbs and packaged in low waste materials.
Their commitment to regeneration goes beyond sustainability, aiming to emulate the zero waste principles of non-human nature.
By prioritizing aligned materials and practices, they minimize environmental impact while actively engaging with communities and organizations to promote positive change.
Choosing Fat and the Moon isn't just about skincare; it's a conscious decision to support holistic well-being and environmental stewardship.
2.13 Face Theory
Face Theory offers skincare products in glass containers with aluminum lids and paper/cardboard packaging.
They prioritize sustainability by manufacturing their products locally in the United Kingdom and ethically sourcing all ingredients.
Committed to waste reduction, they utilize eco-friendly materials for packaging, contributing to a more environmentally conscious approach to skincare.
2.14 UpCircle Beauty
UpCircle Beauty provides sustainable skincare options. Their products are effective and the brand's ethos is commendable.
The return and refill scheme is a great initiative to reduce waste.
While their products may be pricey, the refill option makes it more cost-effective in the long run.
2.15 Youth to the People
Youth To The People (YTTP) prioritizes sustainability by opting for glass packaging to reduce plastic waste and using post-consumer materials whenever possible.
Their vegan formulas are made in California, and they are committed to net zero carbon emissions and a 25% energy reduction by 2025.
YTTP also has a To The Planet Fund that donates to climate-related nonprofits and engages their community through initiatives like the #YTTPEmpties Challenge to promote recycling and upcycling.
2.16 Juniper Seed Mercantile
Juniperseed Mercantile is a Colorado-based small business offering all-natural skincare, home, and parenting products. They promote sustainability and simple living, making it easy for customers to make eco-friendly choices while prioritizing affordability. Their products are crafted with a focus on Down To Earth Decadence and a commitment to minimal packaging and sustainable practices.
2.17 Leaf Seed Berry Skincare
Leaf Seed Berry is a small-batch skincare brand founded by Jessica in Vero Beach, Florida, dedicated to crafting zero waste moisturizers inspired by nature. With over a decade of experience, Jessica formulates products using the nourishing power of leaf, seed, and berry extracts. Each product is thoughtfully created to deliver visible results while honoring the skin's integrity. As a mom and pop shop, Leaf Seed Berry offers personalized service and invites customers to join Jessica on a journey to healthier, happier skin.
2.18 Everglades Skincare
Everglades Skincare is dedicated to environmental responsibility, crafting zero waste skincare solutions with plastic-free packaging and sustainable ingredients. Their commitment extends to using 100% recycled and recyclable packaging whenever possible, reflecting our goal to minimize plastic usage.
2.19 Pacifica
Pacifica is a leading figure in the realm of cruelty-free and natural beauty. They prioritize sustainability through recyclable packaging, clean ingredients, and ethical sourcing practices. While they utilize post-consumer recycled plastic in some packaging, it remains fully recyclable. Additionally, Pacifica offers carbon-neutral shipping options to customers, showcasing their commitment to environmental responsibility.
2.20 Glow Recipe, Acure, and Paula's Choice
Glow Recipe, Acure, and Paula's Choice are three mainstream brands offering free take-back programs in collaboration with Terracycle, enabling customers to recycle their packaging responsibly. These initiatives demonstrate their commitment to environmental stewardship and closing the loop on product packaging.
3. Best Organic Moisturizer: Useful Tips
In addition to brands, there are other specific places to obtain zero waste face moisturizers, organic and sustainable moisturizers. This section is not solely about specific brands, but also about ways to obtain zero-waste moisturizers, including useful tips on organic moisturizers or how to make them.
Multiple Use Oils
Mentioned oils like coconut oil for moisturizing as well as other purposes. This is a good option. It’s a good sustainable option in the sense that you can save on buying several items but using just one like coconut oil for instance.
Local Refilleries
Look for local refilleries that offer package-free skincare products. Opting for refilling is crucial in reducing, reusing, and recycling. It reduces reliance on single-use plastic, promotes safe reuse, and offers an affordable path to sustainable choices for zero waste face moisturizers.
Local Markets
Explore local markets for natural beauty stores or markets offering ingredients for crafting your sustainable moisturizers. This approach not only supports local businesses but also empowers you to create eco-friendly skincare solutions tailored to your needs. Look for locally produced oils high in oleic acid, but be mindful of their comedogenic properties, especially for oily skin types. Some sustainable options include coconut oil, olive oil, avocado oil, jojoba oil, shea butter, and essential oils like tea tree, peppermint, and chamomile.
Farmers Markets
Farmer's markets are excellent sources for zero waste face moisturizer ingredients due to the organic growing practices often employed by local farmers. These markets support sustainable agriculture, as farmers are deeply invested in preserving their communities and farms, leading to the use of environmentally conscious growing methods. Additionally, farmer's markets serve as community hubs promoting social interaction, revitalizing downtown areas, and encouraging healthier food choices. By patronizing farmer's markets, individuals contribute to local economies while obtaining high-quality and sustainable skincare ingredients.
Create Your Own Zero Waste Moisturizer: Sustainable DIY Solutions
Creating your own moisturizer at home is a sustainable and zero waste option, utilizing ingredients like aloe vera and various plant oils. Coconut oil, commonly available in glass jars, serves as a versatile zero waste option with multiple purposes.
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Grape seed oil, refillable in reusable bottles, doubles as both a moisturizer and an eco-friendly refill option. For a DIY moisturizer, consider blending shea butter, cocoa butter, and macadamia nut oil, melting them together for a nourishing and zero waste skincare solution. These homemade alternatives not only reduce packaging waste but also allow for customization and control over ingredients, promoting a more sustainable approach to skincare.
4. Homemade Moisturizer For Face: Are There Any Benefits?
In general, handmade goods are more sustainable due to:
Reduced energy consumption and carbon emissions in production.
Minimal use of resources and natural materials.
Increased likelihood of recycling or repurposing materials.
Handmade face moisturizers contribute to zero waste skincare:
Utilize simple tools and techniques, minimizing energy usage.
Support local economies, reducing carbon footprint from transportation.
Made with love and care, resulting in less waste and pollution.
Choosing handmade options aligns with zero waste principles and promotes eco-friendly skincare practices.
5. Homemade Moisturizer For Glowing Skin: The Basics
This homemade cream can help achieve a glowing complexion when applied to the skin. For more detailed instructions, check out this article on wikiHow.
To make a glowing cream at home, you can follow the steps of this WikiHow article
Glowing Cream Ingredients
1/4 cup almond oil
2 tbsp coconut oil
2 tbsp beeswax
1/2 teaspoon vitamin E oil
1 tbsp shea butter
Preparation
Combine all ingredients in a glass jar.
Melting Process
Place the glass jar in a saucepan filled with 3 to 4 inches of simmering water.
Melt Ingredients
Allow the ingredients in the jar to melt completely in the simmering water.
Mixing
Once melted, stir the ingredients thoroughly to ensure they are well combined.
Cooling
Remove the jar from heat and let it cool down.
Storage
Transfer the cream to a suitable container for storage.
6. Homemade Moisturizer For Dry skin: What We Recommend
To determine how sustainable a product is and whether it's a good reason to purchase it, your individual needs must also be met. This is why visiting a local market or shop can be useful to test out the product. On Etsy, you could perhaps ask the producer to send you a sample.
For those struggling with extremely dry skin, opting for ointments or creams rather than lotions is crucial. Ingredients like jojoba oil, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid provide intense hydration, while substances such as dimethicone and lanolin create a protective barrier to lock in moisture.
Natural remedies like sunflower seed oil and coconut oil offer additional relief, known for their hydrating properties. Additionally, olive oil, with its moisturizing and healing benefits, can be particularly beneficial for dry, irritated skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema.
Homemade moisturizers using these natural ingredients provide a nourishing solution for combating dryness, ensuring the skin remains hydrated and healthy, especially during colder seasons.
7. Zero Waste Face Moisturizer: Recommendations
Lower waste, eco-friendly skincare brands often incorporate essential oils and flower essences, which may not be suitable for all skin types.
Consider purchasing large tub sizes of familiar products like CeraVe or Ceramedex to minimize waste.
Explore small companies offering simple ingredient skincare in glass bottles or bulk options at health food or herb stores.
Recommended products include Sukin day face moisturizer, Just the Goods skincare, MyChelle glass bottles, and Oneka's unscented face cream.
Alternative options include straight cold pressed argan oil, using water for washing face, and coconut oil (with caution due to comedogenic properties).
Vanicream lotion and Clinique moisture surge moisturizer are suggested for sensitive skin in recyclable or reusable packaging.
Keep in mind that coconut oil has a comedogenic nature (meaning it can clog pores) and can have varying effects on different skin types, as highlighted. In general, make sure to carry out sufficient research in terms of the skin type you have. Different skins react differently to different face moisturizers, especially if you have allergies.
Closing Thoughts 💭
In conclusion, finding the best natural face moisturizer, especially one that aligns with zero waste and eco-friendly principles, requires careful consideration of various factors such as ingredients, packaging, and sustainability initiatives. While the market offers a plethora of options, selecting brands like Foraged Fields, Ethique, and EarthHero can ensure not only quality skincare but also a commitment to minimizing environmental impact. By choosing these brands, consumers actively contribute to a greener future while enjoying the benefits of effective and sustainable skincare. Additionally, exploring homemade moisturizers and DIY recipes provides an opportunity for customization and experimentation while promoting zero waste practices.
Ultimately, prioritizing zero waste skincare is not only beneficial for personal well-being but also for the health of our planet!
Zero Waste Skincare refers to skincare practices and products that aim to eliminate or minimize packaging waste throughout their lifecycle.
This includes using package-free options like naked soap and shampoo bars, as well as minimal packaging solutions such as home compostable paper and refillable glass or aluminum containers.
The goal is to reduce environmental impact by promoting reuse, recycling, and sustainable ingredient sourcing while considering the entire lifecycle of products.
2. How Do You Make Zero Waste Lotion?
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To make zero waste lotion, combine natural ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, sweet almond oil, vegetable glycerin, rose water, and essential oils in a reusable container.
Mix until well combined, then store in a glass or aluminum container for a sustainable skincare option.
3. What Is the Most Natural Moisturizer?
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The most natural moisturizers include sunflower seed oil, coconut oil, oatmeal, honey, petroleum jelly, and aloe vera.
These ingredients hydrate and nourish the skin without harsh chemicals or synthetic additives.
They are known for their moisturizing, soothing, and hydrating properties, making them ideal choices for natural skincare.
4. What Moisturiser Is Cruelty Free?
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Cruelty-free moisturizers are those that are not tested on animals.
Some popular cruelty-free moisturizer brands include Sukin, Rugged Nature, Lavera, Avalon Organics, and Alba Botanica.
These brands prioritize ethical practices and do not conduct animal testing on their products or ingredients.
5. What Is the Best Homemade Face Moisturizer?
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When it comes to homemade face moisturizers, it's crucial to strike the right balance of ingredients to ensure effectiveness and suitability for your skin type. While DIY recipes can be exploratory and educational, it's essential to avoid formulations that are too heavy or contain potential irritants.
Opting for recipes with balanced proportions of humectants like glycerine or propanediol, along with emulsifiers for proper formulation, can help draw moisture to the skin and create a well-rounded moisturizer.
Additionally, incorporating tried-and-tested ingredients like emulsifying wax, oils, and preservatives can result in a satisfying emulsion without the need for elaborate equipment.
If homemade formulations seem daunting, exploring reputable commercial options like CeraVe Moisturizing Cream or other trusted brands can provide effective skincare solutions tailored to individual skin needs.
7. What Is the Best Chemical Free Moisturizer?
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Some of the best natural face moisturizers with organic ingredients include Ursa Major, known for its lightweight moisturizer in a pump bottle; True Botanicals, offering a hydrating facial oil in a glass bottle; OSEA, which provides a seaweed-enriched facial oil in sustainable glass packaging; cocokind, renowned for its natural face moisturizers; 100% Pure, offering a variety of organic skincare products; Weleda, known for its organic and sustainable skincare line; Biossance, offering organic and cruelty-free skincare options; and Juice Beauty, known for its organic and eco-friendly skincare products.
These brands prioritize organic ingredients and sustainable packaging for environmentally conscious consumers.
References 💡
Martins, A.M. and Marto, J.M. (2023). A sustainable life cycle for cosmetics: From design and development to post-use phase. Sustainable Chemistry and Pharmacy, 35, 101178. Retrieved from https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scp.2023.101178
Prakash, G., Sharma, S., Kumar, A., & Luthra, S. (2024). Does the purchase intention of green consumers align with their zero-waste buying behaviour? An empirical study on a proactive approach towards embracing waste-free consumption. Heliyon, 10, e25022. Retrieved from http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/
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