LIFE

We've *all* heard the phrase "reduce, reuse, recycle," but it's time to take that to the next level! 40% of plastic produced is used for packaging, according to National Geographic. Many of our beauty and self-care routines are full of plastic bottles and containers that (even when recycled) often end up in landfills or the ocean.

This is extremely harmful to our soil and waterways, the UN Environmental Program says. These single-use products end up on our beaches, oceans and rivers, detrimentally affecting our ecosystems. But do not fear! With these seven sustainable swaps, you (and Mother Nature) will look and feel *so* much better.

1. Shampoo/conditioner bars

Cut the plastic—shampoo and conditioner bars are one of the easiest changes you can make in your shower routine! Not only are these products plastic free, they often last longer than their liquid counterparts.

Just lather the shampoo bar in your hands like you would with a bar of soap and massage the suds into your scalp. Then, run a conditioner bar directly through the ends of your hair for a silky smooth result! You can easily find these bars online or in most grocery stores.

Hibar shampoo & conditioner set, $28

2. Face wash bars

Similar to shampoo and conditioner bars, face wash bars are another great way to reduce your plastic use. Make sure to look for natural, eco-friendly bars that come in paper or cardboard packaging that is easily recyclable. Usually made with clean, gentle ingredients such as aloe, charcoal, honey and essential oils, these plastic-free products are the way to go! 

Beautycounter Charcoal Cleansing Bar, $28

3. Bamboo toothbrushes

According to National Geographic, every plastic toothbrush ever made is still out in the world, fully intact. Bamboo, on the other hand, is a renewable and sustainable resource that will eventually biodegrade. So ditch that plastic for a bamboo toothbrush with soft nylon bristles to keep those pearly whites shining bright! 

Mintly Eco Toothbrush, $5

4. Plastic-free deodorant

Goodbye plastic, hello paper! Another easy swap you can make is purchasing deodorant in paper packaging instead of plastic. Some great brands include Native, Tom's or Ethique—which can be found in most stores and pharmacies. B.O. who? 

Native Plastic Free Deodorant, $13

5. Menstrual cup

Menstrual cups are beneficial in lots of ways! According to madesafe.org, many tampons and pads contain toxic ingredients like bleach byproducts, fragrances and coatings (yuck!). 

Menstrual cups, however, are made from non-toxic, medical-grade silicon that can last up to ten years! This means saving $$$ (and plastic) on period products for almost a decade (yes, a *decade*). The Earth (and your wallet) will thank you for this one!

Diva Cup, $35

6. Laundry detergent sheets

Switch out those plastic detergent bottles for some sustainable laundry detergent sheets. These sheets are made from concentrated detergent and easily dissolve in your wash. They come in a variety of natural scents that will leave your clothes smelling fresh and clean!

Grove Co. Laundry Detergent Sheets, $13

7. Metal safety razors

Plastic razors are sooo last year! Try out a metal razor with replaceable blades and feel the difference on your skin. Safety razors only use one blade which reduces the chance of skin irritation and ingrown hairs (who wants that?).  

Like menstrual cups, metal razors will also save you some cash in the long run since you only have to replace the blades every so often. Plus, they're 100% plastic free, what's not to love?

Eco Roots Safety Razor, $40

Share some of your fave eco-friendly products with us on Insta @girlslifemag!

by Hannah Kennedy | 3/8/2023