Sustainable beauty is more than just ingredients – it’s also about the packaging. The beauty industry generates an incredible amount of waste, most of which ends up in landfills. If you’re trying to cut down on plastic and simplify your routine, these zero-waste makeup brands make it easy to look good and feel good.
Izzy is one of the only truly zero-waste mascara brands. Their stainless steel tubes are designed to be returned, sterilized, and refilled – over 10,000 times. Even the shipping materials are reusable or compostable.
Highlight product: Zero Waste Mascara
Price: Around €40 with a subscription or refill model
🌍 Ships within the US for now, but expanding
2. Kjaer Weis
This luxury brand is refillable at its core. Their beautifully designed compacts are made to last, and you can buy refills for everything from foundation to lipstick. Plus, the formulas are certified organic and clean.
Highlight product: Cream Blush (refillable metal compact)
Price: Around €50 for the compact, €30 for refills
🌍 US based, ships internationally
3. Elate Beauty
This B Corp’s bamboo packaging and minimalist aesthetic make it a go-to for zero-waste makeup lovers. Their products come in seed paper or glass and are designed to be reused or recycled with ease. They also prioritize ethical sourcing and vegan formulas.
Highlight product: Pressed Foundation in bamboo compact
Price: €25–€35
🌍 Canada based, ships internationally
Zao is a French brand known for its eco-luxe vibe and completely refillable line. Their products come in bamboo cases with refillable pans and tubes. Everything is cruelty-free and COSMOS-certified organic.
Highlight product: Refillable Concealer Stick
Price: €20–€35 depending on the product
🌍 Widely available across Europe
Simple, affordable, and fully plastic-free. River Organics is a small brand with compostable packaging and formulas that are easy on sensitive skin. Everything is handmade and cruelty-free.
Highlight product: Tinted Lip Balms
Price: Around €12–€15
🌍 US based, ships internationally
More Tips for a Low-Waste Beauty Routine:
🌲 Use up what you already have before switching
🌲 Look for brands offering refills or recycling programs
🌲 Repurpose containers for travel or storage
🌲 Choose multi-use products (like a cream tint that works for lips and cheeks)
A zero-waste makeup routine doesn’t mean sacrificing performance or aesthetics – it just means choosing smarter options that don’t trash the planet.