I typically hold onto my beauty samples with good intentions. I plan to use them. Unfortunately, I find a drawer full of the plastic containers at the end of the year. One thing that has really helped me is to politely turn these samples away. Alternatively, I collect them and donate them to the less fortunate.
During the holidays, I feel grateful when I donate all of my samples. This gratitude is what sparked me to share this blog. We are all becoming more conscious in our daily lives. Now, more than ever, I’m asked how to build a more sustainable beauty routine. It’s important to consider what to keep in mind when making new purchases. Deciding which options are best is key. I’m asking everyone this important question – How can we set higher standards for our self-care?
- Choose natural, bio-degradable ingredients – Go through your current regimen. Look at what ingredients are in them. Dig into how the company sources their ingredients. Investigate the impact all of this has on the earth. Determine whether it helps or hurts. This research is a great place to start. What we use matters!
- Pay attention to the packaging of your products and how you store them. Glass, metal, wood, bamboo, hemp & seagrass have all become very reliable for packaging. They allow for recycling or upcycling. They are also the perfect option for organizing your essentials in your bathroom or purse.
- Be aware of your local recycling programs. Discover zero waste companies in your area.
Learn more about your Oregon recycling programs here. Discover other free recycling programs here. Find out how to recycle, compost, and sort out garbage in the PDX metro area here. Plus, find zero waste companies in your area for refilling skin and body products, house essentials, and cleaning tools. UTILITY zero waste in Portland, OR is setting new standards! - Ditch any disposables – Natural, bamboo pads for makeup removal is a better option than cotton. Try muslin cloths for exfoliation instead of other options. Use a mini fan brush for putting on mascara instead of a disposable wand. Instead of plastic razors, use metal handles with metal heads that are replaceable.
- Look at what the water content is. The most important factor is a higher content of quality oils & botanicals. These can penetrate your skin barrier, made up of lipids, ceramides and fatty acids. Additionally, when using a water, choose a nutrient-rich version. It should contain rice water, green tea, or added plant and herb benefits.
- Where are the products sourced and what is the company philosophy? Do your research! Use websites like Environmental Working Group and check for certifictions like Leaping Bunny. Do these companies have reef safe standards within their sun protection? What standards are they setting within their platform? Are they creating solutions or are they just part of the greenwashing and trendy hype?
- Use refillable beauty products like Om Beauty Oil available online and pickup at my studio.
You may decide that some items are not needed anymore. This could happen when you try a new beauty routine. You aren’t sure what to do with these items. Don’t throw away your new or lightly used toiletries and skin & body care. Our local women’s and children’s shelter can use your items. It’s the perfect time of year to pay it forward. To make this a habit, set a reminder on your phone each month. Remember to grab unused items and supplies. Drop them off at Kelli Thomsen Beauty or Rose Haven during your next visit.
Rose Haven is located at 18th & Glisan NW Portland. They are a day shelter and community center. They serve women, children, and gender non-conforming folks experiencing trauma, poverty, and physical and mental health challenges. Restoring stability and dignity for 3,500 guests annually, they are always taking new and gently used supplies. Please call with any larger donations 503-248-6364 and they are open until 4 PM most weekdays. See their needed supplies list here: https://rosehaven.org/helping/donate-supplies/
If you are looking to transition to sustainable beauty and want to meet me for a personalized makeup lesson, please schedule HERE
I can’t wait to help others be intentional and more conscious! Take a deep breath. Write down 3 things you want to do to be more sustainable. Reward yourself once you finish them. Then, do a happy dance for me! Cheers to Mother Earth – May she prosper & grow!
For a sustainable wedding, look to these local vendors below to kick off your conscious special day (vendor list from photo in blog)
Ecotrust / Redd on Salon > https://ecotrust.org/our-venue/#redd
Ellie Asher Photography > http://www.theashersphoto.com/
Greater Good Events > https://www.greater-goodevents.com/
Bramble Floral > https://www.bramblefloraldesign.com/
Arden Event Collective> https://ardeneventco.com/
Your Perfect Bridesmaid > https://www.yourperfectbridesmaid.com/
Claire La Faye > http://www.clairelafaye.com/
White Pepper Catering & Venue > http://www.whitepepperpdx.com/
