Sustainability is a veritable beauty buzzword right now, but being a little more eco-friendly with our beauty choices is more than just a fad — it’s the right thing to do for the future of our planet. If you’ve been meaning to make some changes to your own routine, we think there’s no better time than the present to look at ways you can make your things more sustainable. Here’s a few of our favourite beauty hacks for a more earth-friendly lifestyle…

 #1: Recycle Jars and Containers

By now, we all know that recycling is important. In fact, it’s essential. Pop your empty jars and containers in your recycle bin if appropriate, or upcycle your favourite glass empties by getting a little crafty. Consider using an old jar or bottle as a DIY makeup brush holder, or keep well-washed smaller ones on hand for decanting your favourite products into when you’re next travelling.

#2: Don’t leave the water running

In many parts of New Zealand, we’ve just had one of the longest – and hottest – dry spells on record. Water is one of the planet’s most valuable resources and sadly, it’s drying up. Make a few changes wherever you can, starting with washing your face and brushing your teeth. We recommend splashing your face with water and applying your cleanser with damp fingers before turning the tap off. Massage the cleanser over your face, then turn the water back on to rinse. While it may seem easier to just leave the water running, this little bit of time can make a big impact!

#3: Throw away the wipes

And that goes for single-use cleaning rounds, too! Microfibre cloths are the perfect eco-friendly option for removing your makeup, and many do double duty as makeup removers and gentle exfoliators. Be sure to clean the cloths regularly to avoid transferring dirt and bacteria back onto your skin, and always allow them to dry fully between uses. Tailor Skincare’s Towels are suitable for even the most sensitive skin, or invest in a Foreo Luna – a 2-in-1 facial cleansing and massaging device that removes all traces of oil, makeup, sweat and dead skin to leave it looking fresh, smooth and luminous in just 30 seconds.

#4: Stock Up on Eco-Friendly Beauty Tools

Did you know your choice of beauty tools can be sustainable too? Makeup blenders are a more eco-friendly alternative to using disposable applicators, and you can also opt for makeup brushes that made from recycled materials and sustainable wood. Aleph’s Vegan Diffuser Brush has densely packed vegan bristles that are designed to work just like animal hair, but are hypoallergenic and far less likely to harbour bacteria. Sustainably made in Italy, they are designed to last.

#5: Choose Products with Minimal Packaging

Packaging plays a big role in the amount of waste caused by the average beauty routine. To make your own more sustainable, consider reaching for products that have minimal or no packaging, like bar soap in the shower and shampoo and conditioner bars from New Zealand’s own Ethique. A single Ethique shampoo bar is the equivalent to three bottles of traditional shampoo, and making the change is easier than you think!

#6: Brush with Bamboo

Bamboo is compostable and biodegradable and it grows at around a metre per day, making it a totally viable and extremely eco-friendly alternative to plastic. With this in mind, why not switch out your plastic toothbrush for a bamboo one? With proper care, a natural bamboo toothbrush will last as long as any plastic toothbrush, and some even come with activated charcoal-infused bristles for extra anti-bacterial properties.