4 Ways to Reduce Your Ecological Footprint (in Personal Care) RSS

Posted July 2022

Written by Jamie Barrows
 
Making simple changes to your personal care routine may sound unproductive or futile in the big scheme of things: However, becoming part of the bigger picture will reduce the demand for unsustainable consumer goods. The more consumers make the switch to eco-friendly options, the more sustainable the entire skin and personal care industry can become. Knowing this, you can feel good about your purchase decisions. Here are some effortless ideas to help you on your journey to less waste, a lower carbon footprint, and even a simplified, less stressful life.

Reach for Recyclable Packaging

You may be surprised to learn which items are recyclable and which are not. Thankfully, most skincare companies will tell you right on the packaging if theirs is. As a manufacturer of innovative personal care products, we source a variety of sustainable packaging options, so we know that brands are genuinely taking advantage of these options.
Our packaging lineup boasts recycled and recyclable paper, cardboard, and a biodegradable film wrap. We encourage you to seek out these packaging options during your everyday shopping. Look for FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) designation on paper products to ensure responsible forest management. Plastic items should have the recyclable symbol, or even better, eliminate plastic altogether.    

Give up Disposable Makeup Remover Wipes

Like so many other single-use items, makeup remover wipes are highly wasteful. Right after their daily use, they go right in the trash. Now more than ever, we have alternative makeup removal options, so why are we still using wipes? Bradford developed a
solid makeup removal bar that is gentle on the skin and the planet. Other great brands also produce reusable pads, oil cleansers, and facial sponges. There are no excuses not to make the switch.

Streamline your Beauty Routine


Skinimalism is trending. There is no better time to pair down your beauty and skincare routines. Reducing unnecessary products quickly results in less waste and an improved ecological footprint. No one needs a 12-step skincare routine. If you have relatively average skin needs, keep it simple with an eco-friendly cleanser, moisturizer, and the occasional face mask.

Reduce Unnecessary Water Usage

If you don’t know by now, we at Bradford are strong supporters of water conservation. Through our expertise, we have developed bar soap, shampoo bars,  moisturizing sticks, natural deodorants, and even kitchen and laundry bars with little to no water. Body washes, dish soaps, shampoos, and nearly everything in liquid format are made from predominantly water. There is no need for water in a product if that product already uses water in the shower or sink.

Population growth, pollution, and agriculture have all contributed to reducing our clean water supplies, especially in underserved communities. We can do our part in simple ways, like switching from liquid personal care products to solid ones like
Love Beauty and Planet’s Murumuru Butter and Rose Shampoo Bar, which contains an average of only 6-8% water. It may look like a soap bar, but it is more of a shampoo formulation with the water removed. So, it is gentle on your hair and the planet and is sulfate and paraben-free. The next time you are in the personal care aisle, consider the purchase you are making and redirect your mindset.