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 | Curated Makeup Routine
Hello Everyone,
I hope all is well!
On today’s episode we will be discussing the best zero-waste & non-toxic makeup products for every step of your routine. Choosing sustainable makeup doesn’t mean sacrificing quality. Many innovative brands have created high-performing, zero-waste, and non-toxic alternatives for every step of your beauty routine. Below is a guide to the best eco-conscious products that prioritize both your skin and the planet.
I will note that I have not found the best product for every step but when I do I will make sure to update this page!
Primer
Foundation & Skin Tints
Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint (has Shea Butter)
Concealer
Contour
Blush
Bronzer
Mascara
Eyeshadow and Eyeliner
Lipstick & Balm
Highlighter
Setting Powder
Ilia Soft Focus Setting Powder (can also be used as a finishing powder)
Finishing Powder
Ilia Soft Focus Setting Powder (can also be used as a setting powder)
Setting Spray
DIY Rosewater & Glycerin Mist – A homemade, hydrating spray that minimizes waste.
Finishing Spray
Sustainable Beauty Without Compromise
Switching to zero-waste, non-toxic makeup isn’t just good for the environment—it’s better for your skin and hormones too. With these eco-friendly products, you can maintain a flawless beauty routine while making conscious choices that reduce waste and avoid harmful chemicals.
Do you have a favorite sustainable and non-toxic makeup product? Drop it in the comments below and help expand our zero-waste beauty community!
Zero Waste, Zero Toxicity | Makeup
Hello, Everyone!
I hope all is well!
On today’s episode we will be discussing the future of beauty: zero-waste & non-toxic makeup for a sustainable world. The modern beauty industry has long been associated with excessive waste, harmful synthetic ingredients, and unsustainable practices. However, as environmental awareness grows, so does the demand for zero-waste and non-toxic makeup alternatives. Sustainable beauty is no longer a niche movement—it is an essential shift toward ethical consumerism. If you are seeking to enhance your beauty routine while minimizing environmental impact, this guide will help you transition seamlessly.
The Importance of Zero-Waste & Non-Toxic Makeup
1. Health Benefits of Non-Toxic Ingredients
Conventional cosmetics often contain parabens, phthalates, synthetic fragrances, and heavy metals, which can contribute to endocrine disruption, skin irritation, and a plethora of potential long-term health risks. Opting for non-toxic beauty products ensures that your skin is treated with safe, nourishing ingredients that promote overall well-being.
2. Environmental Responsibility
The beauty industry produces approximately 120 billion units of packaging annually, much of which is non-recyclable plastic that ultimately contributes to global pollution. Sustainable beauty brands prioritize refillable, biodegradable, and recyclable packaging to reduce their ecological footprint and promote circular economies.
How to Transition to Sustainable Makeup Without Overspending
1. Utilize Existing Products
Before purchasing new sustainable beauty items, make the most of your current collection. Using up existing products before replacing them with eco-friendly alternatives reduces unnecessary waste and maximizes resource efficiency.
2. Choose Ethically Responsible Brands
Not all “clean” beauty brands uphold the same sustainability standards. Look for companies that emphasize low-waste packaging, cruelty-free formulations, ethical sourcing, and their EWG score rating. I also like to build the report on EWG Build Your Own Report to check a product’s ingredient list. I stop my products at level 4!
3. Invest in Multi-Use Products
Reducing consumption is a key aspect of sustainability. Choosing multi-functional products, such as tinted balms, cream blushes, and all-in-one makeup sticks, helps minimize packaging waste while maximizing utility.
4. Explore DIY Beauty Alternatives
For those interested in a hands-on approach, homemade beauty products provide a waste-free alternative. Items such as beetroot-based blush, cocoa powder bronzer, and aloe vera mascara are easy to create, cost-effective, and free of synthetic additives.
5. Properly Recycle & Upcycle Packaging
Participate in take-back programs offered by sustainable beauty brands or recycle cosmetic packaging through initiatives like TerraCycle. Repurposing empty containers for storage or DIY projects further extends their usability and reduces waste.
Sustainable Beauty as a Lifestyle
Embracing zero-waste, non-toxic makeup is a journey of mindful consumption rather than perfection. Whether transitioning gradually or making a complete switch, each choice contributes to a more ethical and environmentally responsible beauty industry. By supporting sustainable brands, investing in refillable products, and minimizing waste, we collectively shape a more sustainable future for the beauty world. In the next post I will share products for each step of your makeup routine!
What are your favorite zero-waste and non-toxic beauty brands? Share your recommendations in the comments below and let’s create a more sustainable beauty community together!
