Zero Waste, Zero Toxicity | Makeup Brushes
The Best Vegan & Zero-Waste Makeup Brushes for a Sustainable Routine
Sustainable beauty isn’t just about makeup—it’s also about the tools you use. Choosing vegan, zero-waste makeup brushes ensures that your beauty routine is cruelty-free and eco-conscious. Traditional brushes often contain animal hair and plastic-heavy handles, but there are plenty of ethical alternatives made from bamboo, recycled aluminum, and synthetic bristles that perform just as well. Here’s a guide to the best sustainable brushes for every step of your routine.
What Makes a Makeup Brush Sustainable?
When shopping for eco-friendly brushes, look for:
Vegan Bristles – Cruelty-free synthetic fibers that mimic natural hair without harming animals.
Sustainable Handles – Materials like bamboo, recycled wood, or aluminum instead of plastic.
Minimal or Recyclable Packaging – Avoid excessive plastic wrapping and opt for brands that use compostable or recyclable packaging.
Durability – High-quality brushes last longer, reducing waste in the long run.
Best Zero-Waste & Vegan Makeup Brushes
I must be frank when I say that the majority of my makeup brushes are from the Sephora Professionals Collection. To be honest I am not sure why these aren’t spoken of more often. They are made of vegan bristles, encapsulated in wood packaging that is made from sustainably managed forests, and they are durable. I began using these when I first got into makeup and have continued using them ever since. They are also very straightforward as they tell what each brush is used for.
Base Brushes
PRO Foundation Brush #70- A multifunctional brush that I used to use for every step of my routine. Literally. However, now that I have leveled up I only use it for foundations and skin tints, contour, and liquid blush.
Mini PRO Foundation Brush #70.5 – Travel sized version which I leave at my university campus and take with me to travel.
Eye Brushes
I honestly solely use the crease brush for my eyes 98% of the time. I use it for the base eyeshadow, darker eyeshadow, and glitter and I always get compliments. I learned that for the eyes it is mainly technique and color decision that makes the difference. But I want to continue experimenting with my eye makeup which is why I still included the set.
I primarily use liquid eyeliner since I just love wearing colors. I have included two brushes for everyone to choose from. The second option is to be used with the eyeliners which I included in my episode.
Blending & Precision Brushes
Sephora Collection PRO Blush Brush #99 - Highly optional and I just thought to include since I am considering obtaining a blush brush to keep things separate.
How to Care for Your Sustainable Brushes
Wash Regularly – Clean with mild soap and warm water to extend their lifespan.
Air Dry Naturally – Lay brushes flat after washing to maintain their shape.
Store Properly – Keep them in a breathable container to prevent bacteria buildup.
Why Switch to Sustainable Brushes?
Switching to vegan and zero-waste makeup brushes isn’t just about reducing waste—it’s about making a conscious decision to support ethical beauty brands that prioritize sustainability. By choosing cruelty-free and eco-friendly tools, you’re contributing to a cleaner, greener beauty industry.
What are your favorite sustainable brushes? Drop a comment below and let’s build an eco-conscious beauty community! 🩶✨
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.
