The Active Edit

The Newest Beauty Trend: Refillable Beauty Products

written by: Kimberly - Beauty Editorpublished on 13 Dec, 2024

What Are Refillable Beauty Products?

Packaging is a constant debate in the beauty industry. It’s a great way for brands to create an identity and showcase value and quality in their products, however the build up of empty bottles in your bathroom cabinet to end up in landfill… not so great. When it comes to beauty products and cosmetic packaging, there is a large amount of plastic that goes straight to landfill, as most are not truly recyclable nor are they properly recycled. You’re now able to refill current bottles of product that you own, instead of purchasing new ones. With the growing consciousness of being sustainable as consumers, refillable packaging is the new trend that allows you to enjoy your favourite beauty products and stock up as needed without carrying the eco-guilt. 

Is Refillable Beauty Packaging More Sustainable?

You might be thinking, how does a refill work? Is it really a more sustainable option? The answer is, yes! Refillable packaging can use up to 90% less plastic, some of which is made of out recycled materials. By brands having this product offering, their manufacturing processes also significantly reduce the amount of waste generated, as well as water and energy used. Refill original product bottles, or add your own personal touch and purchase your own cosmetic bottles, jars and dispensers to fill up on your favourite beauty in a more sustainable way. 

Advantages Of Refillable Beauty Packaging

The beauty industry trend of refillable beauty products is here to stay, as this sustainable option to purchase your favourite beauty products holds many benefits to not only the environment but also to the consumer. 

  1. Reduce waste: By re-using current bottles, jars and dispensers you already have, refillable beauty products significantly reduce the amount of waste produced by cosmetic brands, but also consumer consumption of plastic materials.
  2. Cost effective: Refillable beauty products are value for money as the cost of refills is typically lower than a packaged product due to cost savings in manufacturing the packaging. It saves you money and is more environmentally friendly, what more could you ask for?
  3. Increased consumer satisfaction: Customers feel more satisfied in their purchase, knowing the brand is moving towards more sustainable practices. Fostering trust is key to building brand loyalty. That’s right, no more eco-guilt!
  4. Positive Environmental Impact: By reducing waste, refillable beauty allows the use of recycled materials and reduces the demand for new plastics, ultimately playing a large role in combating environmental challenges.

Let’s dive into the different types of refillable beauty products you need to get onto to not only cut down on waste, but save yourself some money and restock on your holy grails. 

Refillable Skincare 

Skincare products in refillable packaging are a great way to maintain your routine while reducing waste. Brands like Dermalogica, have introduced refills on their best-selling products to allow consumers to not only order product that is higher value for money, but also reduce their environmental footprint. The Dermalogica Special Cleansing Gel Refill is packaged in a flexible pouch made up of 75% less plastic than the original bottle and pump. It features a resealable spout for closure and easy pour for into your empty bottles. Similarly, the Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant Refill uses packaging made up of 92% less plastic than the original bottle. A fan favourite exfoliating face scrub that fills your original size Microfoliant to the brim. It’s the perfect solution to topping up your favourite products when it’s needed. 

For your beauty devices, The Omnilux Blemish Eraser Hydrocolloid Refill Patches are single use patches that allow you to be consistent with your LED Light Therapy journey. By purchasing refills, this becomes a cost-effective way to top up on these patches without having to buy a whole new Omnilux device. 

Bath And Body Refills

Bath and body care products like shower gels, hand washes, and body lotions are often sold in refill pouches or larger eco-friendly containers. These options make it easy to stock up while keeping packaging waste to a minimum. Favourites from L’Occitane including the L’Occitane Almond Shower Oil Refill allows you to continue loving this luxurious shower oil in a sustainable way when you purchase this eco-friendly, 100% recycled bottle.

Now we all know how fast your liquid soaps run out, which is why refills are a game-changer in your bath & body routine. the Al.ive Body Watermelon & Lime Natural Hand Wash Refill is a great option to top up on your favourite hand soap while minimising waste. With an easy pour and resealable spout for closure, this refill will ensure you’re never running out of your favourite soaps. 

What Is Refillable Makeup?

Refillable makeup consists of using the outside plastic container and replacing the inside product, which helps to reduce your environmental footprint. Makeup brands are now beginning to offer refillable options for compacts, lipsticks, and more. These products let you replenish your favorites without the need for single-use plastic. Jane Iredale is a responsible and sustainable beauty brand that offers refills throughout a wide range of their products. The Jane Iredale PurePressed Base Mineral Foundation Refill is a best-selling powder foundation that is packaged in an easy-to-use compact. The powder refills across the range perfectly pair with the Jane Iredale Refillable Compact to allow you to test and try different products and colours without going through all the plastic. 

Similarly, the Eye Of Horus Lipstick Satin Refill is a great option for trying out different shades and topping up on your favourite lip makeup products without the excess packaging that comes along with it. 

Top Up On Your Favourite Superfoods

Refillable beauty isn’t just about skincare and makeup. Some brands now offer refills for clean beauty supplements like collagen powders and superfood supplements. It’s a great way to remain consistent and achieve your wellness goals while staying sustainable. The WelleCo Nourishing Protein Chocolate Refill is perfect for those who are trying to increase their protein intake. Ensure you always have some good quality protein powder on hand with refill products that promote sustainable consumption of your favourite supplements. Similarly, the WelleCo Super Elixir Original Refill allows you to top up on your greens powder and look after your gut health in a eco-friendly way. Consistency is key to seeing results, which means refill packaging comes in handy when you need to repurchase your wellness products.  

Furthermore, it’s clear that refillable beauty has made an impactful entrance in the beauty industry. With many advantages such as cost effectiveness, reducing waste and lowering your environmental footprint, it’s a no brainer that purchasing refills should become a regular part of your beauty routine.