You’ve probably read several articles by now about the beauty and fashion industry’s commitment to sustainability. All those grandiose plans might feel a bit out of reach for the average layperson who doesn’t know how to contribute, other than choosing to buy brands that are natural and sustainable.
We’ve made a lot of progress as a society to curb our waste, emissions and harmful chemicals, but there’s still a steady headway to be made. Luckily, programs like TerraCycle are spearheading efforts to bring us even closer to full recycling and waste reduction. And then, there are brand-specific programs that offer a win for Earth and the consumer in the form of discounts and rewards.
Remember, not all plastic can be recycled. The smaller sample sizes and compact tubes like those from lipstick and mascara can’t typically be recycled in a sorting facility and they wind up in landfills. As such, it’s best to find a program that accepts empty containers for reuse.
Beauty Rewards for Recycling
MAC
The Back to MAC program incentivizes you to bring in 6 primary containers from empty makeup (i.e., blush compacts, foundation tubes, etc) and in turn, you will receive a free MAC lipstick of your choice.
Kiehl’s
Bringing in an empty container earns you a stamp. Collect 10 stamps to redeem for a travel-sized Kiehl’s product. While only full-sized containers earn you a stamp, you can return all Kiehl’s packaging to the store for recycling.
Lush
If you bring back 5 black pots to the store for recycling, you receive a free Lush face mask.
TerraCycle
Aside from these brand-specific programs, many beauty brands also partnered with TerraCycle, which provides TerraPoints you can use for rewards.
Arbonne Beauty
Burt’s Bees Recycle on Us
DECIEM Recycling Program
Garnier – Here’s the beauty of the Garnier program- they accept ALL cosmetics, hair, and skincare packaging for recycling! Order one box, fill it up and send it off for recycling.
eos Recycling Program
Herbal Essences Recycling Program
Josie Maran Cosmetics Recycling Program
LimeLife by Alcone Recycling Program
L’Occitane Recycling Program
Paula’s Choice Skincare Recycling Program
Schwartzkopf Recycling Program
Rodan+Fields Recycling Program
Weleda
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