Stemming from organic cosmetics and the slow beauty trend, zero waste cosmetics aim to reduce, or even eliminate, waste from beauty products. Every year, the cosmetics industry produces around 120 billion items of packaging (Zero Waste Europe), making a major contribution to global plastic pollution. Because of the low recycling rate, much of this waste ends up in landfill or in the oceans, taking several hundred years to decompose.
Today, less than 9% of the world’s plastic is actually recycled (UNEP, 2022). The rest ends up incinerated, buried or directly polluting natural environments.
In response, many brands are adopting a more sustainable approach by offering products without packaging, in recyclable or refillable materials. As well as limiting waste, these products are often formulated with natural and biodegradable ingredients, offering a healthier alternative for the skin and the environment.
Why adopt the zero waste and solid cosmetics trend?
Much more than just a fad, zero waste cosmetics are a concrete response to current environmental issues. By opting for sustainable alternatives, everyone can help to reduce plastic waste and limit the pollution linked to hygiene and beauty products.
Solid and zero-waste cosmetics offer many advantages, both for the planet and for consumers.
- Less waste: Unlike conventional shampoos and shower gels, which are packaged in disposable plastic bottles, solid cosmetics are often sold in bulk or in biodegradable packaging. For example, some brands use compostable cardboard or refillable aluminium pots. In France, only 52% of plastic cosmetic packaging is recycled, whereas the recycling rate for glass packaging is 85% (CITEO, 2023). Opting for solid cosmetics or biodegradable packaging therefore helps to reduce the amount of non-recycled waste.
- Healthier compositions: Many conventional cosmetics contain sulphates, silicones or parabens, which can be irritating to the skin. Zero-waste alternatives favour natural formulas, enriched with nourishing plant oils and butters, ideal for sensitive skin. What’s more, some cosmetics contain microplastics, which do not break down and accumulate in the oceans. In Europe, over 3,800 tonnes of microplastics from cosmetics are released into the environment every year (ECHA, 2021).
- Better value for money: A 100g solid shampoo can last up to 3 months, the equivalent of two bottles of liquid shampoo. By reducing consumption, these products help you save money while reducing your ecological footprint.
- Practical and easy to transport: Lightweight and compact, a solid shampoo takes up no space in a suitcase and can be transported by plane without restriction. It does not leak or require a plastic bottle.
On average, a 100g solid shampoo is equivalent to two or three bottles of liquid shampoo (WWF). A family of four that adopts solid cosmetics can save up to 30 plastic bottles a year, considerably reducing its waste production.
Sustainable beauty with organic and solid cosmetics
To move towards zero waste, you need to choose products with as little packaging as possible (biodegradable or recyclable), and choose care products that last a long time, hence the origin of solid cosmetics.
Say goodbye to ingredients that irritate, attack or dry out the epidermis and scalp, and opt for Maison Berthe Guilhem Organic Solid Shampoo for Dry Hair.
Indeed, dry hair accumulates problems. Using products enriched with nourishing active ingredients is essential to beautify the hair fibre, coat and repair the hair.
Cold-processed from alpine goat’s milk, shea butter and argan oil, this solid shampoo improves hair hydration for a soft, silky, revitalised effect.
Various brands have made zero waste their trademark. For example, Soin et Nature offers Lamazuna Coffret Zéro Déchet Rouge. This red zero-waste gift set from Lamazuna brings together all the beauty essentials for a zero-waste bathroom.
This poplar box contains four natural, vegan products that can be used by both men and women.
New zero-waste accessories for a greener bathroom
As well as solid cosmetics, there are a number of zero-waste accessories that can help reduce everyday waste. Replacing disposable products with sustainable alternatives is an essential step in adopting a more responsible beauty routine.
Here are a few essential accessories for limiting your environmental impact:
- Washable make-up removal pads: Made from organic cotton or bamboo, these replace disposable cotton pads and can be reused hundreds of times after washing.
- Bamboo toothbrushes: An eco-friendly alternative to plastic brushes, they are biodegradable and have recycled nylon bristles.
- Oriculi: This reusable bamboo ear pick replaces disposable cotton buds, which are one of the main types of plastic waste found in the oceans.
- Stainless steel safety razors: Unlike disposable plastic razors, these are reusable for life and produce almost no waste.
Adopting these accessories not only reduces waste production, but also saves you money in the long term, by avoiding the repeated purchase of disposable products.
Why switch to zero-waste cosmetics today?
Switching to a zero-waste beauty routine means making a conscious choice to reduce your environmental impact, while enjoying healthier, more economical skincare. Today, it’s easy to find alternatives to conventional products, from solid shampoos and natural deodorants to reusable accessories.
Would you like to take the plunge and transform your bathroom into a greener, more minimalist space? Discover a selection of organic, solid and zero-waste cosmetics on Soin et Nature and start adopting more sustainable habits today.
