Zero Waste, Zero Toxicity | Menstrual Cycles
Hello Everyone,
I hope all is well!
Today, we’re diving into the infamous “bloody hour” and how I’ve transitioned to a zero-waste, sustainable approach for managing it. For years, I used disposable menstrual products that contribute to landfill waste and expose our bodies to harmful chemicals. But I’ve made a conscious decision to move toward healthier, eco-friendly alternatives.
Let’s get into it!
Menstrual Cups
Menstrual cups can be messy, but over time, I’ve developed a system that makes the process seamless—and I’m sharing it with you, courtesy of my personal experience.
One of the benefits I love most is that menstrual cups reduce the need for frequent changes. On my lighter days, I only need to change my cup 2-3 times throughout the day, including when I first wake up and before my nightly shower. On my heaviest day, I change it 3-4 times, including in the morning. My menstrual cycle typically lasts 5-6 days, with the second day being the heaviest.
While the adjustment period can be challenging, I’ve found menstrual cups to be life-changing. They save me money, reduce waste, and provide peace of mind with their long-lasting wear and leak protection. I even wear my menstrual cup by itself overnight! Trusting a menstrual cup takes time, but it’s worth the effort.
My Recommendations:
These are the only cups I’ve tried so far, but they are very inexpensive and come from a brand that has taken great initiatives toward resolving menstrual care issues:
They also have options for younger users:
For those of you who have given birth the brand recommends:
This is not a sponsored post! I just really enjoy the price and inclusivity that June offers!
Menstrual Lubricants
Lubricants can make the insertion process of menstrual cups much smoother, especially if you’re new to using them. I highly recommend incorporating one into your routine! Personally, I prefer water-based lubricants to minimize exposure to harsh chemicals, but here are a few great options:
Water Based
Aloe Cadabra (I included this next one for those who may feel like the off-brand version isn’t as natural and for those sensitive to any form of alcohol.)
Oil Based
Menstrual Cleaner & Sterilizer
When it’s time to empty my menstrual cup, I start by rinsing it, followed by a thorough cleanse. For thorough cleaning during my menstrual cycle, I use a portable sterilizer in conjunction with travel-sized, non-toxic soaps. In public restrooms, having a portable cleaner is essential for convenience. I highly recommend the Pixie Menstrual Cup Compact & Collapsible Sterilizer for this purpose. My top pick for soaps to pair with the sterilizer is the Relaxing Body Foam Wash Lavender & Chamomile. I particularly like the powder form because it’s incredibly convenient for public restrooms. When I come into the restroom, all I need to do is fill the sterilizer with water, add the powder, and give it a quick shake. Once I empty my cup, I can clean it using this solution, reinsert the cup, and then discreetly dump the water into the toilet. It makes the entire process seamless and hygienic.
At the end of my cycle, I make sure to sterilize my cup to ensure proper hygiene and extend its lifespan. Here are a few methods:
Use the Pixie Cup Menstrual Cup Sterilizer (my favorite for ease).
Place the menstrual cup in boiling water on the stove for two minutes.
Place it in a mug of warm water that has been microwaved for three minutes.
Menstrual Panties
If you’re not familiar with PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), here’s what you need to know. These chemicals are commonly used to make products water and stain-resistant but are highly toxic and persist in the environment and our bodies for years. Some associated health risks include:
Reduced immunity and vaccination response
Increased risks of obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease
Fertility issues and increased miscarriage risks and low sperm count
Higher likelihood of certain cancers, including testicular and kidney cancer
After researching menstrual underwear brands free of PFAS, I discovered Aisle Menstrual Booty Shorts and plan to try them during my next cycle. They offer a variety of sizes, colors, and options of undies, however, I chose these for comfort. Aisle stands out for its regular product testing through SGS - a leading testing and inspection company; Sierra Club and Mamavation.
Reusable Menstrual Pads: A Zero-Waste Swap
If menstrual cups or period panties aren’t your thing, reusable cloth pads are another amazing low-waste option! These feel just like regular pads, but instead of tossing them out, you wash and reuse them—saving money and reducing waste.
Why Use Reusable Menstrual Pads?
Completely waste-free – One pad lasts years, unlike disposables that end up in landfills.
Made with breathable materials – Less irritation compared to synthetic disposable pads.
Cost-effective – While the upfront cost is higher, they pay for themselves within a few months.
Easy to clean – Just rinse, toss in the wash, and air dry!
My Reusable Pad Recommendations
Aisle Cloth Pads – Made with organic cotton, ultra-absorbent, and come in different sizes.
If you prefer the feeling of a pad over a cup or period panties, this is a great transition product for a more sustainable cycle!
What If I Cannot Afford Menstrual Panties At the Moment?
Honestly, girl same! I recommend to you this menstrual brand called Honey Pot, which is. what I have been using until I can purchase the menstrual panties. Especially on the toughest days of my menstrual cycle the peppermint infused pads are always so soothing! You can also pick them up from your local drug or department store!
Ibuprofen Alternatives
My first day of menstruation is always the most painful, and in the past, I’ve relied heavily on ibuprofen to get through it. However, I’m working to reduce my dependency on painkillers due to their potential long-term effects. Here are some natural alternatives I’ve started incorporating:
Heat Therapy: I have been searching for a good electric heating blanket.
Iron, D3, Magnesium, and Multivitamins Supplements: I’ve started taking an iron supplement daily due to my bloodwork stating I am anemic (as are many women) and a multivitamin to help replenish nutrients and support overall energy levels, and maintain bone health during my cycle. Magnesium is known to help relax muscles and reduce cramping.
Herbal Teas: I’m trying Chinese Red Date Tea on next cycle as it is said to be soothing and can help with pain relief.
Exercise: Light yoga or stretching helps improve circulation and ease cramps. However, I am the type of person who needs to feel the burn to feel like I’ve worked out, so I stick to my regular workout practices of Lagree, reformer Pilates, running, and weight training. These workouts not only keep me active but also help alleviate cramps and improve circulation during my cycle.
Essential Oils: The lavender and peppermint-infused pads from Honey Pot always feel calming, so I initially tried the method of solely applying the Wood Lock Medicated Oil during my menstrual cycle to see if it makes a noticeable difference. Unfortunately, the Wood Lock Medicated Oil did not aid my pain at all which is concentrated in my lumbar area. What did aid my pain was Tiger Balm Ultra Strength. I kept reapplying it as needed, and it made a significant difference each application.
For those who experience menstrual pain in the stomach area, I recommend trying lavender and peppermint essential oils to my painful areas in conjunction with the Wood Lock Medicated Oil as it might provide relief for that specific type of discomfort.
Chinese Red Date Tea
While researching alternatives to ibuprofen for supporting my body during menstruation, I came across a traditional Chinese remedy that piqued my interest. This tea is made with ingredients known for their nourishing and comforting properties during your cycle. Here’s the recipe:
Ingredients:
Chinese red dates
Goji berries
Ginger
Chinese brown sugar
Instructions:
Boil all the ingredients together and drink the tea while it’s hot.
Although I haven’t tried this tea yet, I plan to incorporate it into my next cycle and share my experience with you all! (Link to the TikTok video here.)
Final Thoughts
Transitioning to zero-waste menstrual care has been one of the most empowering and cost-effective decisions I’ve made. It’s not just about protecting the environment but also prioritizing my health. Finding the right products takes trial and error, but the journey is worth it. Let’s continue these conversations, share tips, and create a more sustainable future—one cycle at a time.
Zero Waste, Zero Toxicity | Oral Care
Hello Everyone,
I hope all is well!
In today’s episode, we will be discussing how to achieve a beautiful smile! I would like to state that this is a judgment-free space, so I’m being vulnerable by admitting that I’ve had a hard time maintaining great oral care habits. But in my heart of hearts, I’ve always desired that beautiful California white smile! However, transitioning to a zero-waste lifestyle has made it challenging to find products that are zero waste, low-toxic, cruelty-free, and vegan.
It’s been difficult to achieve a pearly white smile without using disposable plastic or risking enamel damage and tooth sensitivity. But I think I’ve found a great starting point! I’ll be doing a side-by-side profile in six months from this post to track my progress (and will also include x-rays and footage from my dentists appointments as proof). Also, I have written it in the order I do it as said by this man
So, without further ado, let’s begin!
Step 1: Tongue Scraping
A tongue scraper is a simple but effective tool to remove bacteria and debris from your tongue, improving breath and overall oral hygiene. It’s a quick and easy addition to any routine. And it has removed some nasty stuff from my mouth, I shan’t lie!
Step 2: String Flossing
First, let me emphasize that this is a safe, judgment-free zone. I’ll admit I haven’t always been consistent with flossing, but I’m committed to changing that. Thanks to Dentistry TikTok, I’ve learned about the benefits of applying toothpaste to floss:
Enhanced Cleaning: Adding toothpaste helps remove more plaque and debris between teeth, targeting areas your toothbrush can’t reach.
Fluoride Delivery: Toothpaste delivers fluoride to protect and strengthen enamel in those hard-to-reach spots.
Improved Freshness: Let’s be real—if you’ve ever smelled your floss, you know it can be humbling. Toothpaste makes flossing a fresher experience and helps combat bad breath.
However, while it’s recommended by dentists to use toothpaste on floss, I’m just a girl! I’ve chosen to incorporate silk string flossing into my routine for its compostable properties and combine it with water flossing for a more thorough clean. I did plan to finish my plastic floss, however, when I read about the amount of PFAs and toxic chemicals within floss I decided to just throw it away. Whether I finish it or don’t finish it the end result will still be polluting the planet AND me risking my health even further. So, have found some great options that are non-toxic, plastic-free, and will last you a hella long time. These options are made of silk.
Step 3: Water Flossing
I do not replace my string floss with my water floss because my dentists (yes, I do have more than one) said not to do so as water flossing only removes food debris but not plaque. This dentist also reiterates this! And considering the egregious cavity bill I paid on my last visit I will be heeding their advice. But anyway, here is the Cordless Waterpik Flosser I currently use and will keep using because it was purchased prior to my plastic free journey.
Step 4: Oil Pulling (While in the Shower)
Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic practice that involves swishing oil in your mouth to remove bacteria, reduce bad breath, prevent cavities, improve gum health, and promote oral hygiene. While experts recommend doing it for 20-30 minutes, I’m starting with in the shower in the mornings during my post-workout shower. As an ambitious university student juggling three majors and three minors, I’m choosing to give myself grace and keep it realistic.
I am currently using unrefined coconut oil for this step.
Step 5: Mouthwash
This dentist specifically recommended the brand Elementa. I know it is expensive but health is wealth and it is non-toxic (according to the EWG report), plastic-free, and was created by dentists. It being created by dentists made me feel safe and secure considering how well TheraBreath works. You only need a sip for rinsing your entire mouth and my mouth does feel cleaner upon its usage.
Step 6: Brushing Twice Daily
Consistency is key! I’ll be honest: brushing my teeth twice a day hasn’t always been my strength. I have been having longs since I was little and will always choose sleep over everything; hunger, stretching, body care, etc. But I’m proud to say I have nurtured the discipline to brush morning and night.
For toothpaste:
Morning Routine: I’m using the Euthymol Fluoride-Free Toothpaste, which leaves my mouth feeling fresh and clean. It comes in an aluminum tube, does make your breath smell extra fresh, and lasts a surprisingly long time.
Night Routine: The toothpaste tablets that I have purchased and have lined up for use once I finish my Hello Toothpaste (which sucks by the way) are the NOBS Toothpaste Tablets I will be incorporating into my night routine. To be frank I have zero qualms with fluoride and do not think it is the villian so many want us to believe it is. However, I have heard great things about Nano Hydroxyapatite and Xylitol - specifically their remineralizing properties. The people have been saying it reverses cavities, tooth decay, tooth sensitivity, etc. so I figure I will give it a shot!
I also have been using these Happy Gum Drops with my toothpaste simply because I was influenced by this young lady right here! I am not sure if it is a necessity yet, but when paired with the Hello Toothpaste I think it is a nice addition.
For my tooth brush I have been on the hunt for a plastic free option but for now I have been using the Oral-B Pro 1000 Rechargeable Electric Toothbrush, Black.
Step 7: Whitening
If you want to go the extra mile, you can use Eucryl Toothpowder to whiten teeth. This product is a gentle yet effective whitening powder that can help remove stains and brighten your smile without the need for harsh chemicals or additional waste. I plan to incorporate this step upon finishing my Hello Toothpaste to help achieve that California smile.
Final Thoughts
Switching to a zero-waste, low-toxic oral care routine has been a journey of trial and error, but it’s been so rewarding. By making small, intentional changes, I’m not only improving my smile but also reducing my environmental footprint. Remember, it’s about progress, not perfection when it comes to any change. Let’s commit to building healthier, more sustainable habits together!
Zero Waste, Zero Toxicity | Laundry
Hello Everyone,
I hope all is well!
In today’s episode, I’m sharing my journey toward a zero-waste and low-tox laundry routine. As a college student, balancing academics, social life, and sustainability can feel overwhelming, but small changes—yes, even in your laundry habits—can make a big difference for both your health and the environment.
Why I Made the Switch
My decision to move away from conventional laundry products stemmed from two key concerns:
The Environmental Impact of Plastic Pollution – Plastic is everywhere in the laundry process—detergent bottles, dryer sheets, laundry pods—and most of it ends up in landfills or the ocean. I started learning more about how plastic pollution affects marine life, ecosystems, and even our own health, and I knew I had to start making better choices.
Hidden Toxins in Everyday Products ingredients – Many mainstream laundry products contain chemicals that can irritate skin, disrupt hormones, and pollute indoor air. Brands rarely disclose the full list of ingredients, and I wasn’t comfortable using products without knowing exactly what was in them.
After diving into research—reading science journals, articles, and expert insights—I realized that even small daily choices matter. My goal wasn’t to overhaul my lifestyle overnight but to make mindful, practical changes that align with a sustainable and low-tox approach.
Small Steps to Big Change
The laundry process often involves a lot of plastic—think detergent bottles, dryer sheets, and even the packaging on laundry pods. Plus, many conventional laundry products contain toxic chemicals that can harm both our bodies and the environment.
As a college student, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed when considering a complete lifestyle overhaul. However, I found that starting small has been making all the difference. Here are some easy switches I made that anyone can adopt:
1. Do Not Just Throw Everything Away Prior to Using it In Its Entirety
Before I started swapping out products, I made one key rule:
🚫 Don’t throw away what you already own! 🚫
A common mistake when transitioning to a zero-waste lifestyle is thinking you need to immediately toss all your plastic-heavy or chemical-laden products. But that’s actually wasteful—here’s why:
Reduces Waste – Throwing out partially-used products adds to landfill overflow. Instead, finishing them allows for a smoother and gradual transition.
Saves Money – No need to buy new products all at once—use what you have, then invest in sustainable swaps.
Encourages Mindful Consumption – Using up existing products made me more aware of my habits and what I actually need moving forward.
Even after switching, I looked for ways to repurpose old containers (e.g., using empty glass bottles for DIY juices). The goal is progress, not perfection—so start slow!
Remember, the goal is to minimize waste and make conscious choices. By finishing up your current products, you can transition to a more sustainable lifestyle without adding to the problem!
2. Now, You Can Make the Switch to Zero Waste and Low Toxic Detergents
One of the biggest sources of plastic waste in laundry? Liquid detergent bottles.
Instead, I switched to eco-friendly detergent brands that focus on minimal, sustainable packaging and clean ingredients. Here are my two favorites:
🌱 DedCool: Aesthetic, Refillable & Low-Tox
Packaging: Comes in aluminum tins (refillable) & Kraft paper refills (compostable).
Key Ingredients: Water, coco-glucoside (gentle cleanser), plant-based preservatives, and glycerin.
Why I Love It: The Red Dakota Scent smells amazing on my sheets, and the packaging looks so sleek!
🍋 Meliora: Zero-Waste Powder Detergent
Packaging: Comes in a paper & steel canister—no plastic, no liners, no waste.
Key Ingredients: Baking soda, washing soda, and organic coconut oil-based soap.
Why I Love It: A little goes a long way—just half a tablespoon per HE load or one tablespoon in standard washers, making it cheaper per load than big name detergents. I personally love the Lemon Lavender Clove Scent for my clothes.
Both brands are transparent about their ingredients, making them safer alternatives to conventional detergents.
3. Next, Choose Your Oxi-Booster
Once I had a zero-waste detergent, I wanted an extra boost for tough stains and whites. That’s where Blueland’s Oxi Booster comes in!
Blueland Oxi Booster: A Sustainable Stain Fighter
Packaging: Comes with an aluminum container—refills arrive in lightweight, recyclable pouches. The design reflects Blueland's commitment to sustainability, featuring bright colors and clear labeling to make it easy to identify.
Key Ingredients: A short, clean ingredient list (all disclosed on their website).
Why I Love It: The Clear Skies Scent is subtle but fresh, and it actually works on tough stains!
Instead of constantly buying new containers, I just refill my tin, reducing plastic waste in the long run.
4. Lastly, Switch to Wool Dyer Balls
Dryer sheets are single-use and packed with artificial fragrances, so I swapped them out for a natural, reusable alternative:
Wool Dryer Balls: The Sustainable Swap
Why Use Them?
Naturally softens fabrics without chemicals
Reduces static & drying time, saving energy
these balls help separate items in the dryer, allowing hot air to circulate more effectively
Reusable for hundreds of loads
Compostable at the end of their life
Made from natural wool, for those with sensitive skin or allergies.
Wool dryer balls are reusable for hundreds of loads, minimizing waste associated with single-use dryer sheets and providing a more sustainable choice since they are biodegradable. You can even customize the scent of your laundry by adding a few drops of essential oils to the balls, avoiding synthetic fragrances altogether. While the initial investment may be higher than dryer sheets, their durability leads to cost savings over time.
Additionally, they help reduce noise in the dryer by cushioning clothes and minimizing clattering sounds, and since they contain no added chemicals, they are hypoallergenic, making them suitable for households with sensitive individuals. Some I like and recommend are Blueland, Public Goods, and Handy Laundry
5. No, You Do Not Need Fabric Softener
Fabric softener is honestly unnecessary. Most contain petrochemicals and synthetic fragrances, leaving behind a chemical residue on clothes; contribute to indoor air pollution; and irritate sensitive skin. Instead:
Use Wool Dryer Balls – They naturally soften fabrics.
Try White Vinegar – Add a splash (in a glass jar, preferably!) to the rinse cycle for softness without residue.
If you still love a scented boost, both DedCool and Meliora's detergents smell amazing for weeks—no need for artificial fragrances. However, adding a few drops of essential oils (or the DedCool Poop Drops when lazy) to dryer balls to offer a customizable and chemical-free option.
6. Make Your Washing Machine More Sustainable
Even if you’re using the best zero-waste detergents and laundry boosters, how you wash your clothes matters too. Traditional laundry habits waste a ton of water and energy, but small adjustments can make a big difference.
Eco-Friendly Washing Machine Tips
Wash with Cold Water – Heating water for laundry uses 90% more energy than cold water washes. Most detergents (especially Meliora and DedCool) are formulated to work just as well in cold water.
Use the Right Load Size – Running full loads maximizes efficiency and saves both water and energy. If you must do a smaller load, adjust the water level setting accordingly.
Choose an HE (High-Efficiency) Machine – If you’re buying a washer, look for ENERGY STAR® certified models. They use less water and energy per cycle.
Skip the Extra Rinse Cycle – If you’re using a non-toxic detergent, you don’t need an extra rinse—this just wastes water.
Clean Your Machine Naturally – Over time, residue from detergents and fabric softeners can build up in your washer. Instead of chemical cleaners, use:
1 cup of white vinegar in an empty wash cycle to break down buildup.
Baking soda for extra deodorizing power.
OR
By making these small adjustments, your laundry routine becomes even more sustainable, cutting down on waste, energy use, and unnecessary expenses.
Final Thoughts: Why Every Small Change Matters
Switching to a zero-waste, low-tox laundry routine doesn’t have to be overwhelming. The key is to:
✨ Use up what you already have before replacing products.
✨ Make small, mindful swaps instead of trying to change everything overnight.
✨ Choose brands that align with your values—whether that’s zero-waste packaging, non-toxic ingredients, or refillable options.
The best part? These changes don’t just benefit the planet—they protect your health and save money in the long run.
What’s one sustainable laundry swap you’re excited to try? Drop a comment below!
Zero Waste, Zero Toxicity | Plastic Elimination
Hello Everyone,
I hope all is well!
In today’s episode we will be discussing my journey towards plastic elimination via ingestion. The pervasive harm of microplastics has long been known, but I didn’t fully grasp how deeply they have infiltrated our daily lives until recently. With climate change accelerating and scientific research uncovering microplastics in human blood, brain tissue, and even breast milk, I realized it was time to take deliberate action. Eliminating plastics, particularly those that can biologically impact my health, became a priority. While this journey has been challenging, it has also been transformative. Here, I share my approach to transitioning toward a plastic-free lifestyle.
Understanding Plastic: It’s Not All Bad
Before diving into my journey, I want to emphasize that plastic, as a material, is not inherently harmful. In fact, plastic has revolutionized industries like medicine, technology, and transportation due to its durability, versatility, and affordability. It’s saved lives through its use in medical devices, enabled advancements in engineering, and made goods more accessible globally.
The issue lies in how we use and dispose of plastic in our daily lives. Single-use plastics, low-quality synthetic materials, and inadequate recycling systems have created a significant environmental and health crisis. The overproduction of cheap, disposable plastics has led to pollution, microplastic contamination, and waste accumulation on an unprecedented scale.
By recognizing where plastic is beneficial and where it is overused, we can make more informed choices. My journey focuses on eliminating unnecessary plastic in areas that directly affect my health and the environment while acknowledging its occasional utility when no better alternatives exist.
Clothing: Redefining My Wardrobe
The first major change I made was addressing my clothing. Synthetic fabrics, often made with microplastics, can leach harmful chemicals into the skin. This realization prompted a complete overhaul of my wardrobe, but it came with its own complexities:
Donating Considerations: Initially, I thought about donating my synthetic clothes. However, I decided against it, recognizing that passing these items on might perpetuate the same health risks.
Veganism and Material Ethics: As a vegan, reconciling my commitment to cruelty-free living with the need for natural, non-synthetic materials was difficult. Veganism extends beyond diet—it’s reflected in the fabrics we wear, the interiors of our cars, and even our accessories.
Developing Personal Style: Growing up wearing school uniforms left me little room to explore personal fashion. Many of my earlier clothing choices were trend-driven and mismatched, failing to reflect my evolving identity.
Commitment to Quality: I’ve come to prioritize high-quality, non-toxic materials, no matter the brand or cost. The life I envision is one of intentionality, free from low-quality synthetic fabrics.
To support this transition, I invested in non-toxic laundry detergents, sustainable drying techniques, and tools designed to protect the integrity of my clothes.
Kitchen: Creating a Plastic-Free Culinary Space
Eliminating plastic from my kitchen proved to be one of the most daunting tasks, given how ubiquitous it is in food storage and preparation. I began with tools and have gradually expanded to packaging:
Replacing Plastics with Durable Alternatives: My mother and I replaced all plastic containers, measuring tools, and utensils with stainless steel and glass options.
Upcycling Glass Jars: Glass jars have become a cornerstone of our kitchen, repurposed for storage, homemade recipes, and refillable items.
Eliminating Single-Use Plastics: Black plastics, known for their toxicity, were among the first to go, along with other single-use items. Right now, I am currently looking for an alternative to paper towels that are both pretty and lack synthetic, toxic materials. There’s also things like foil and transparent paper that I have added to my list of to-dos.
Though we are still transitioning our food packaging to sustainable alternatives like glass, aluminum, and paper, these initial steps have significantly reduced our plastic reliance.
Bathroom: A Surprisingly Manageable Shift
The bathroom turned out to be one of the easiest areas to transition. I have successfully built a plastic-free oral care routine and switched to non-toxic cleaning and scenting products. This included replacing single-use plastic toothbrushes, finding sustainable and non-toxic cleaning solutions, and reducing overall bathroom waste.
Bedding and Bath: Extending the Transition
While bedding isn’t directly tied to the bathroom, I realized that microplastics can infiltrate other intimate areas of life, such as where we sleep. I replaced polyester sheets with 100% cotton options, and my next goal is to invest in comforters and pillows made from natural materials. I am leaning towards a silk, wool, or cotton option. I’m excited to share that I’ve also found non-toxic mattresses, which align perfectly with my commitment to creating a healthier sleep environment I just also need to save up before I make the purchase lol. I also plan to get silk pillowcases, essential for protecting my curly hair and protective styles, are now paired with plans to purchase pillows free of synthetic fillings.
Haircare: Navigating Challenges
Transitioning my haircare routine has been one of the more difficult aspects of this journey. While I use professional-grade products for wash days, most of them come in plastic packaging and lack the highest levels of clean ingredient transparency. I am actively researching better alternatives for both haircare products and tools.
Body Care: Progress and Areas for Improvement
I’ve made significant strides in creating a non-toxic, plastic-free body care routine. And while my décolletage care is fully non-toxic, I am still searching for completely plastic-free solutions for certain products like my toner and lip moisturizer.
When it comes to nail care, I have retained my gel nail polish and equipment due to past investments. While I use gloves to protect my hands during UV curing, I need to find non-polyester gloves to align with my values and verify through thorough research that my Beetles Gel Polish won’t create a problem for me long-term.
Menstrual Care: A Positive Transition
Menstrual care was surprisingly straightforward to address. Through research and experimentation, I have adopted a non-toxic, plastic-free routine that feels both empowering and sustainable. The only thing I am missing is the menstrual underwear that I have found but have yet to purchase
Beyond Basics: Makeup, Furniture, and Home Goods
While transitioning my lifestyle, I have managed to find non-toxic makeup products that align with my values. However, all of these products still come in plastic packaging, which presents an ongoing challenge. While they aren’t plastic-free, they represent a step toward healthier, cleaner options for my skin. I’m continuing to research brands that offer sustainable packaging without compromising on safety and quality.
The scope of this transition extends far beyond clothing, kitchens, and bathrooms. I’m currently exploring options for makeup, furniture, and even paint. Many large corporations prioritize profit over public safety, so finding ethical and sustainable alternatives requires diligence. While these changes may feel financially burdensome at times, I firmly believe that health is wealth and worth the investment.
Final Thoughts
By sharing my journey toward adopting a zero-waste and low-toxicity lifestyle, I hope to inspire others to consider how small, intentional changes can lead to meaningful transformations. This shift has not only transformed my habits but also deepened my understanding of the interconnectedness of health, sustainability, and global responsibility. As a college student, I understand the challenges of balancing academics, social life, and personal values. However, I want to emphasize that even small steps can create significant improvements—both for the environment and your overall well-being.
In the coming months, I’ll be diving deeper into each area of my transition, sharing detailed insights and resources. Together, we can work toward a future that values sustainability and wellness, creating meaningful change for ourselves and our planet.
The journey to a plastic-free lifestyle is about more than reducing waste; it’s about living with purpose, prioritizing health, and embracing quality over convenience. Though this path can be challenging and often demands both financial and emotional commitment, it’s profoundly rewarding.
In the coming months, I’ll be diving deeper into each area of my transition, sharing detailed insights and resources. Together, we can work toward a future that values sustainability and wellness, creating meaningful change for ourselves and our planet.
