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The Best Sustainable And Non-Toxic Nail Polish

Transitioning to using non-toxic, natural nail polish marked a significant shift in my beauty routine. It's interesting to think that I had never really considered the chemicals present in the typical nail polishes found at drugstores. I have memories of using WetnWild's black nail polish since I was young, but I never took the time to investigate its ingredients.

Health risks of traditional nail polish

Traditional nail polishes often contain harmful chemicals that can pose risks to your health. Many conventional nail polishes commonly use chemicals such as formaldehyde, toluene, and dibutyl phthalate (DPB). These toxic ingredients have been linked to various health issues, including respiratory problems, allergic reactions, and hormone disruption. When you apply traditional nail polish, these chemicals can be absorbed through your nails and into your bloodstream, potentially causing long-term health problems.

What ingredients should you avoid in nail polish?

When choosing non-toxic nail polish, it's important to be aware of certain ingredients that should be avoided. While non-toxic nail polishes are generally formulated without harmful chemicals, some brands may still include ingredients that are less desirable. Here are a few ingredients to watch out for when selecting your non-toxic nail polish:

1. Formaldehyde: This chemical is a known human carcinogen and can cause allergic reactions.

2. Toluene: Toluene is a solvent that can affect the central nervous system.

3. DBP (dibutyl phthalate): DBP is a plasticizer that has been linked to hormone disruption and reproductive issues.

4. Camphor: Camphor is a potential allergen and can cause skin irritation and respiratory problems.

5. Ethyl Tosylamide: This ingredient has been linked to antibiotic resistance and is best avoided.

6. Triphenyl Phosphate: a suspected endocrine-disrupting chemical

By familiarizing yourself with these ingredients, you can make informed decisions when purchasing non-toxic nail polishes. Remember to always check the product labels and opt for brands that prioritize transparency and safety.

Below, these nail polishes will say #-Free, and it refers to the number of toxic ingredients they did not use, which you would typically find in conventional nail polish. And good news for your nails - many brands are making non-toxic nail polish that doesn't use those ingredients, along with many other ingredients you find in conventional polish.

How to Choose a non-toxic, sustainable nail polish

Always check for the number of free ingredients they do not include. 10-Free is pretty standard for non-toxic nail polishes, but as long as you don't see the above ingredients on the label, you are already choosing better nail polish. When shopping for non-toxic nail polish, we look for the labels' Vegan' & 'Cruelty-Free,' which means no animal products are used within the ingredients, and there has been no animal testing. Since I live in the states, I also like to look for Made in the USA to lower my carbon footprint.

Here is a little guide to help you navigate the world of non-toxic nail polishes:

1. Check the labels: Look for nail polishes that explicitly state they are free from harmful chemicals like formaldehyde, toluene, and DBP. Additionally, opt for polishes that are labeled as "7-free”, "10-free," or more indicating the number of toxins they are free from.

2. Research brands: Take the time to research different non-toxic nail polish brands. Look for reviews and customer feedback to ensure that the brand delivers on its promises of safety and quality. We’ve tested several of the brands mentioned in this post, and were happy with the results!

3. Consider certifications: Some non-toxic nail polish brands may have certifications from organizations such as Leaping Bunny or PETA, indicating that they are cruelty-free and vegan-friendly.

4. Test the performance: Non-toxic nail polishes can vary in terms of performance and longevity. Consider trying out different brands and shades to find the ones that work best for you.

5. Support eco-friendly brands: Choose brands that prioritize sustainability and eco-friendly practices. Look for polishes that come in recyclable or biodegradable packaging and brands that use renewable energy sources.

By following these guidelines, you can confidently choose non-toxic nail polishes that are safe for you and the environment.

While none of these brands are perfect, the benefits of these more non-toxic nail polish extend beyond personal health. By choosing more eco-friendly products, you are making a conscious effort to reduce your carbon footprint. With the increasing demand for greener alternatives, it's clear that non-toxic nail polish is the way of the future. So indulge in a guilt-free manicure and experience the joy of beautiful nails without the harmful chemicals!

our top picks for sustainable and non-toxic nail polish:

1. Kure Bazaar

10-Free, Vegan

Price: $22

These nail polishes are crafted with a unique blend of 85% natural ingredients, such as wood pulp, wheat, cotton, potatoes, and corn. Kure Bazaar nail polishes offer a wide array of stunning colors and provide a smooth, glossy application. Despite their natural composition, they boast a lasting power comparable to traditional nail polish formulations.

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2. Ella + Mila

7-Free, Cruelty-Free, Made in the USA, Natural, Vegan

Price: $10.50 - 12.50

Ella + Mila nail polishes are known for their vibrant colors and flawless texture, providing your nails with a stunning appearance. This brand is not only dedicated to adults but also offers a range for children, allowing both you and your daughter to indulge in DIY manicures and pedicures while ensuring that the products are safe for their delicate nails.

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3. Piggy Paint

Cruelty-free, Vegan, Water-Based

Price: $9

Piggy Paint is an excellent choice for kids' (and adults’) nail polish. This premium brand is highly trusted by parents and was created by a mom, making it a reliable and safe option. What's great about Piggy Paint is that it's virtually odorless, and it comes in a wide variety of fun colors, including sparkles and glow-in-the-dark options. Additionally, Piggy Paint offers a collection for adults called SOPHi, which provides a more mature range of shades. However, many of us will likely still appreciate the original Piggy Paint line for its vibrant and playful colors!

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4. Zoya

10-Free, Cruelty-Free, Vegan

Price: $12

Zoya is one of the very first Big 10-Free and breathable nail lacquer. This exceptional product was meticulously crafted by Zoya in her salon while she was expecting. Her personal quest for a healthier formula stemmed from the desire to provide a safer and more nourishing option for herself, her dedicated staff, & her valued clients.

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5. Mischo Beauty

10-Free, Cruelty-Free, Gluten Free, Vegan, Black-Owned

Price: $20

We can't stop admiring the exquisite design of this bottle! It resembles a miniature perfume bottle. Mischo Beauty is a trailblazer in the realm of clean luxury, providing an impressive range of award-winning nail lacquers that boast rich hues and exceptional performance.

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6. 786 Cosmetics

Certified Halal, 11-Free, Cruelty-free, Vegan

Price: $14

786’s industry-leading, non-toxic, Halal-certified (Islamically permissible) formula is water-permeable. That means water can penetrate through the nail polish, allowing you to perform Wudu and pray without having to remove it. They believe that beauty products should be inclusive and designed for all to enjoy– regardless of spiritual or ethical beliefs.

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7. Sundays

10-Free, Cruelty-Free, Vegan

Price: $18 - 20

Sundays dedicated an entire year to crafting a flawless formula that is not only 10-free, nontoxic, and vegan but also cruelty-free. Despite these stringent criteria, the formula still manages to provide a stunning high-shine finish and brilliant, long-lasting color. With a collection of over 60 gorgeous shades, Sundays offers a wide range of colors to suit every style and preference.

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Future of Non-Toxic Nail Polish

The non-toxic nail polish industry is constantly evolving, with new trends and innovations emerging. Here are a few exciting developments in the world of non-toxic nail polishes:

1. Water-based nail polishes: Water-based nail polishes are becoming increasingly popular as they are free from toxic chemicals and have a minimal odor. They are also easy to remove, making them a convenient option.

2. Gel-like formulas: Non-toxic gel-like nail polishes are gaining popularity for their long-lasting and chip-resistant formulas. They provide a salon-quality finish without the need for UV lamps or harmful chemicals.

3. Nail care-focused polishes: Some non-toxic nail polishes are now formulated with additional nail care benefits. These polishes may contain ingredients like biotin, keratin, and vitamin E to strengthen and nourish your nails.

4. Sustainable packaging: Many non-toxic nail polish brands are prioritizing sustainable packaging. They are using eco-friendly materials such as glass bottles and recyclable packaging to reduce waste and minimize their environmental impact.

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Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliated; we may earn a small commission if you click through & make a purchase. We only add brands & products we truly believe in. Thank you for supporting the brands who are working to make the beauty industry a cleaner place!

Safe, Non-Toxic Dry Shampoo

Life moves at a frantic pace. Forget FOMO — rushing about to keep up with today’s increasing demands is pressure enough. Sometimes, you don’t even have time to shower. You still want to look well-groomed, which is why manufacturers invented dry shampoo. 

However, you don’t want to harm the planet in your rush for beauty on the fly. Nor do you want to introduce toxins into your body that will come back to haunt you. How can you ensure the products you grab in a rush won’t cause issues? Here’s your guide to eight safe, non-toxic dry shampoo brands that keep your locks lush on busy days. 

The Many Wonders of Dry Shampoo 

Dry shampoo can be a lifesaver on busy mornings. However, even the most useful inventions have the potential for misuse. Life is often a balancing act — too much of a good thing can be as bad as too little. 

Some brands contain chemicals proven to harm human health. Many of them are known carcinogens, meaning they may cause cancer. Why take the risk? There are safer, non-toxic dry shampoo brands you can seek out. 

Are There Any Downsides to Dry Shampoo? 

The biggest downside to dry shampoo is the risk it may contain harmful chemicals. One such substance is benzene. Unilever, one of the largest brands in the world, recently issued a voluntary recall of select lot codes of the following well-known dry shampoo labels:

• Dove 

• Nexxus

• Suave

• Rockaholic 

• Bedhead 

The manufacturer produced the recalled items before October 2021, but you can check if you still have one of these items haunting your medicine cabinet. Be careful with disposal, as aerosol cans may explode in certain conditions. Contact your waste disposal facility for advice on how to safely rid yourself of these products. 

Benzene exposure increases your risk of severe negative health events, especially leukemia and lung cancer. With lung cancer being the second most common form of cancer, it is important to avoid unhealthy chemicals and keep yourself safe. 

Downsides of Dry Shampoo That Aren’t Health-Related

There is one other drawback of dry shampoo — you can only use it so many times before it loses effectiveness. These products can build up on hair strands, weighing them down and making them clump. Using dry shampoo for too many days in a row can leave residue, making you feel like you belong among the Founding Fathers with your coiffed white “wig.” 

Why Non-Toxic Beauty Matters 

Choosing non-toxic products benefits your health and that of the planet. Benzene is just one of the problematic substances dry shampoo brands can contain. Others can create issues in sensitive populations or harm the ecosystem.

1. Health 

Cancer isn’t the only health risk. Some ingredients in dry shampoo can clog pores, while others prompt your skin to create more sebum, especially around the hairline. You could suffer a breakout if prone to pimples, especially on your forehead. 

Furthermore, dry shampoo can also make existing dandruff look worse. In addition to the flakiness of the talc, it can affect the skin of your scalp if you don’t wash with regular shampoo often enough. It’s a delicate balancing act — and unfortunately, you may have to experiment to find the right schedule for you.

2. The Environment 

Some products wreak havoc on the natural world. The problem lies in the ingredients they contain. Safe, non-toxic dry shampoos are free of these harmful substances, but you need to get smart about reading labels. Here’s what to look out for: 

• Talc: While some scientists believe that contamination by asbestos causes carcinogenic effects in talc-based baby power, others believe it is the powder itself. That’s especially problematic considering how much you inhale when spraying dry shampoo near your face.

• Liquid petroleum gas: Liquid petroleum gas is a type of volatile organic compound (VOC). VOCs can irritate your eyes, nose and throat, cause nausea and headaches and damage your kidneys and nervous system. They also contribute to global warming by acting as greenhouse gasses, letting toxins build up in the atmosphere. 

• Cetrimonium chloride: This substance is toxic, irritating and causes allergic reactions. It’s fatal if swallowed, making it dangerous for parents of little ones. It can also harm aquatic environments. 

• Silicon: This substance is not biodegradable. It’s worse than plastic for the environment in some ways, as it doesn’t break down into tiny particles over time without outside help. The small particles found in unsafe dry shampoos will continue to exist for hundreds of years from now, making them harmful to the planet. 

Do all dry shampoos contain these harmful chemicals? The good news is that the answer is no — you can find safe, non-toxic brands.

8 Safe, Non-Toxic Dry Shampoo Brands to Try

You understand the risks of using dry shampoos laden with chemical toxins to your health and the planet. However, reality says you don’t have time to research every ingredient on a product’s label before deciding to buy. That’s where this guide comes in — here are eight of the best safe, non-toxic dry shampoo brands to try.

1. Primally Pure 

Price: $16(1oz) - $28(2oz)

Do you want to stimulate hair growth while still getting to work on time after accidentally sleeping through your alarm? You can do so with Primally Pure. Their signature lavender, grapefruit and peppermint blend nurtures your follicles while refreshing your ‘do. How does it absorb grease? This safe, non-toxic formula uses a blend of arrowroot powder and kaolin clay to soak up dirt and oil. It’s free of petroleum to avoid weighing down your hair and skips the problematic talc.  

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2. Prose 

Price: $25-30(1.4oz)

What if you had a team of people at the ready to personalize your hair care experience? With Prose, you do. This company takes a different approach to style, letting you customize your formula with safe, non-toxic ingredients that address specific issues with your locks. 

Do you need more volume? Extra oil control? Simply take the fun quiz on their website to create a custom blend for your needs. 

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3. Billie

Price: $14(1.2oz)

With a name like “Floof,” how could the Billie brand be more adorable? Their packaging earns high marks on the cuteness scale too, like a tiny happy clown on your vanity waiting to bring a smile to your face. The aerosol-free rice starch absorbs dirt and oils while the baking soda zaps grease. You can choose from light or dark-colored formulations, making this safe, non-toxic dry shampoo ideal for nearly everyone.

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4. Beauty by Earth

Price: $22(1.3 oz)

This innovative dry shampoo comes with a slim nozzle that makes a thorough application a snap.

It comes in two shades for light or dark tresses.

Cornstarch and arrowroot powder do the tough job of tackling oil and grease, and it’s unscented if fragrances leave you with a headache.

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5. Rahua

Price: $32(1.8oz)

What is cassava? This South American root veggie is a food staple in many countries, thanks to its rich, filling fiber. However, this stuff doesn’t only nourish your intestinal microbiome. You also have colonies of these beneficial bacteria on your skin, and this ingredient treads lightly on it while absorbing oil, dirt and grease. The star anise contains antimicrobial properties that further balance your scalp’s flora.

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6. Act + Acre

Price: $26(0.6oz)

This plant-based dry shampoo comes in convenient spritz packaging that provides easy application without damaging the environment. It’s free of problematic ingredients, including:

Talc, Alcohol, Aerosol, Parabens, Phthalates & Artificial fragrance

This clear formula is safe for any hair color. Slide one into your gym bag for a quick refresher after the gym.

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7. Fat & the Moon

Price: $18(2oz)

How does Fat and the Moon absorb oil and grease? It’s a blend of cocoa, starch, clay and lavender powder that will create an aura of relaxation around your head to promote a calm, positive mood for your day — even if you woke up on the wrong side of the bed. It’s free of aluminum and safe for all hair colors. If anything, the cocoa will give a subtle ombre touch to the lightest hues.

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8. Chagrin Valley

Price: $19(4.5oz)

You’ll notice that none of the brands on the list thus far use aerosol. Neither does Chagrin Valley — your purchase comes packaged in a shaker for easy application. The beauty of Chagrin Valley lies in choice. They offer four formulas — two for dark hair and two for light. Select from lavender and rosemary or fresh mint, alternating fragrances or creating a signature scent that lingers on your pillow.

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Safe, Non-Toxic Dry Shampoo

Dry shampoo is a must-have in a pinch, but some brands can wreak havoc on your health and the planet. Spend your money wisely, investing in the best, non-toxic dry shampoo brands for your unique hair profile.

Each brand above goes above and beyond to tread lightly on the planet while safeguarding your health. They’re also effective, correcting minor hair issues as nature intended and, above all, getting you to the office on time.

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About the Author

Mia Barnes is a health and beauty writer with a passion for sustainable living and wellness. Mia is also the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Body+Mind Magazine, an online publication that covers healthy and eco-friendly living. Follow Mia and Body+Mind on Twitter and LinkedIn! 

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Why You Should Avoid Spray Deodorant

Deodorant is a must for anyone who wants to smell good all day, but it’s also a product that can potentially harm the environment. Aerosol deodorant, in particular, has a negative impact on our planet. 

Spray deodorant was designed with convenience in mind. However, with 26 million Americans using spray deodorant, there are concerns about how it affects the planet. Understanding how these sprays contribute to climate change can help us make more eco-friendly choices in our routine. 

How Spray Deodorant Impacts the Environment

While many people are concerned about aluminum in their deodorant, aerosols are another product to watch out for. They contribute to climate change and affect your air quality. Here are the ways spray deodorant can impact the environment.

Air Pollution

Aerosol propellants are some of the biggest concerns around spray deodorant. Many spray products contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are chemicals that easily vaporize in the atmosphere. Once they get there, they react with sunlight and other pollutants to form ground-level ozone, creating smog. VOCs are common groundwater and ozone pollutants.

Most importantly for consumers, VOCs are common indoors and can reach levels ranging from two to a thousand times higher than outdoors.

This pollution contributes to global warming. The government banned older sprays with chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) because they were actively depleting the ozone layer. While CFCs are gone, many modern sprays still use hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs). While HFCs

don’t deplete the ozone layer, they do contribute to climate change. 

Packaging Waste

Along with the deodorant itself, the packaging can increase waste. Many spray products come in non-recyclable cans, increasing landfill waste. All that packaging ends up in landfills or the ocean, creating more pollution. Plastic can take 20-500 years to break down — so it’s essentially here forever. Animals can eat it, harming themselves, and as plastic waste builds up, we lose habitats and affect ecosystems. 

The metal used in aerosol canisters also contributes to environmental waste. Metal containers take lots of energy to produce. More energy means more fossil fuels are consumed, increasing carbon emissions.

Physical Effects

Spray deodorants can even harm your health. Fragrances and VOCs can cause breathing difficulties, headaches andmore. Using lots of sprays in your home can bring down your indoor air quality, making breathing and living in your space difficult. Limiting your exposure to VOCs is important, especially if you’re already sensitive to chemicals. 

Wild offers Refillable Deodorants to help combat waste!

Sustainable Alternatives to Spray Deodorant

Choosing sustainable deodorant alternatives is a great way to reduce your impact. Whether you’re looking for plastic-free or recyclable packaging, there are steps you can take to help the environment. 

Stick Deodorants

Switching to stick or roll-on deodorants is one of the easiest alternatives. These products typically produce fewer harmful chemicals than sprays. Since they don’t have propellant, they don’t affect your air quality or produce VOCs. Want to minimize your footprint even more? Look for options with plant-based or natural ingredients.

Many of these products come in plastic packages. While plastic is not a great product for sustainability, you may have other options. Many brands now have paper, bamboo or recyclable packaging. You can easily find eco-friendly alternatives for your deodorant. 

Refillable Deodorants

Refillable deodorants, which come in reusable containers, are a newer innovation that helps you reduce your single-use plastic use. When you run out, you just buy a refill instead of throwing away the entire package. The containers are designed to be long-lasting, so you can use them over and over as you refill them. We suggest Wild’s refillable deodorants.

Zero-Waste Deodorants

Zero-waste deodorants are an even more sustainable choice. They offer packaging that’s minimal or completely compostable. You’ll see these options in cardboard tubes that you can easily recycle or compost. The goal with these products is to have packaging that doesn’t stick around forever like plastic. To maximize your impact, go for the zero-waste deodorants with no plastic packaging. We suggest Attitude’s plastic-free deodorants.

DIY Deodorants

The only way to get complete control over deodorant sustainability is to make your products yourself. Use online recipes with baking soda and other materials to make a homegrown deodorant. Just remember that DIY deodorant might not be as effective as commercial products. Research carefully to ensure you’re using safe ingredients. 

Crystal Deodorants

Crystal deodorants are another sustainable option. They’re made from natural mineral salts. Crystal options come in a solid form that you use, just like regular deodorant. These products are often free of synthetic chemicals, fragrances andplastic packaging. You can use them as a low-impact alternative to standard deodorant. 

How You Can Make a Difference

Switching to a more sustainable deodorant is a great way to reduce your environmental impact. Here’s how:

1. Support eco-brands: Vote with your dollar and give your money to companies that put the Earth first. Look for companies that use natural ingredients and are transparent about their processes. To reduce your impact, try to buy eco-friendly, cruelty-free and vegan products. 

2. Watch packaging: Pick recyclable or reusable packaging. Plastic and sprays contribute to pollution and waste, harming the environment. Refillable or recyclable products keep waste out of landfills, protecting the planet. 

3. Spread awareness: Do your part and let others know. Talk to friends, family and colleagues about spray deodorant’s environmental impact. Share information on social media and tell people about alternatives. The more people you get involved, the less waste we’ll produce! 

4. Reduce consumption: Remember reduce, reuse, and recycle? It’s more sustainable to reduce your consumption. It’s easy to buy more than we need, creating excess demand. Using products mindfully cuts down on waste and lowers your environmental footprint.

Ditch Spray Deodorant and Protect the Planet

Choosing to move away from spray deodorants is a simple but effective way to improve sustainability. Whether you decide to use reusable deodorant or you start small with stick options, every little bit helps. Make more conscious choices and encourage others to get the ball rolling. Together, we can reduce pollution, plastic waste and aerosol products. Every effort matters to protect our planet for the future.

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About the Author

Mia Barnes is a health and beauty writer with a passion for sustainable living and wellness. Mia is also the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Body+Mind Magazine, an online publication that covers healthy and eco-friendly living. Follow Mia and Body+Mind on Twitter and LinkedIn! 

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Why We Think Upcircle Skincare Is Worth a Try!

If you’re looking to level up your skincare game, and are on the hunt for a brand that’s gentle on your skin and the planet, you’re in the right place - we’ve got you covered! Say hello to UpCircle,  a UK-based sustainable skincare brand (available online in the US) that gives waste products a second life. This brand uses upcycled ingredients that would otherwise have ended up in landfills in their eco-friendly skincare products. They’re also B-Corp Certified, vegan, cruelty-free, and zero-waste, so you know they’re the real deal. 

UpCircle Uses Non-Toxic, Clean Ingredients

One of their most popular ingredients is leftover coffee grounds, which they source from local cafes in London - so coffee lovers, you can’t miss this one! To date, UpCircle has “rescued” over 450 tonnes of grounds. Coffee grounds are super rich in antioxidants, which get even stronger after the coffee has been brewed - making used grounds even better than fresh ones. In addition to coffee, UpCircle uses residual chai spices that are leftover from chai syrups, leftover date seeds which are a by-product of date farming, and maple bark extract, a by-product of the wood industry. 

Favorite Product: Kaolin Clay Face Mask

My favorite UpCircle product is the Kaolin Clay Face Mask. Priced at $28, it is slightly pricey, but I promise you won’t be disappointed with the results. The tub looks small, but it lasts forever - I’ve had mine for nearly two years! Plus the jar isn’t super clunky and won’t clutter up your (precious) counter space. 

While this mask doesn’t contain coffee, its hero upcycled ingredient is discarded olive stones, a by-product of the olive oil industry. The stones are ground up and mixed with white kaolin clay, coconut powder, and baobab oil (amongst other ingredients). This detoxifying mask draws out dirt and toxins, minimizes pores, fights blackheads, and helps prevent breakouts.

First impressions - the texture feels super rich and creamy, but not too heavy. While it’s suitable for all skin types, like any new product (especially if you have sensitive skin), we recommend doing a patch test first. My skin feels super smooth and clean afterward, and my makeup glides on seamlessly. The mask is gentle and doesn’t dry out or irritate my skin, which is a huge win because a lot of exfoliating masks can be too harsh for me. 

Depending on how oily your skin is or how clogged your pores feel, we recommend using this mask once a week or even every other week. We also love mixing things up - alternate this mask with a DIY scrub (some ideas here!) or follow up with some rice water as a toner. 

Other UpCircle Products You Should Add to Your Beauty Routine:

I have also tried their Organic Bamboo Cotton Buds which are plastic-free and biodegradable, and come in a recycled paper box. One $6 box contains 200 sticks, so it’s not a bad deal either. Would definitely recommend as a sustainable swap to standard plastic buds. Their Chai Soap Cleansing Duo ($18 for a set of two) also makes a great gift.

Next up, I’m tempted to try their Coffee Body Scrub with Lemongrass ($24), containing sea salt, lime, coconut oil, and shea butter - sounds divine!

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Easy (& Sustainable) DIY Skincare Recipes 

If you’re looking to upgrade your daily skincare routine without breaking the bank (seriously, when did skincare get so expensive?), look no further. Homemade skin and body care are a great way to nourish your skin while also being good for the environment. Here’s why DIY skincare is so awesome - plus some easy, all-natural recipes so you can get started right away!

Benefits of homemade skincare

• It’s kind to your wallets. DIY skincare is super affordable because you probably have most of the ingredients at home already - pantry staples that double up as treats for your skin! 

• Less waste: Some ingredients are upcycled - which means that they are by-products of something else and would otherwise have been dumped in the trash. As a bonus, you’re making just the right amount that you will use up in one or two days. Say goodbye to those forgotten, half-used, expired jars of product cluttering up your vanity shelves. 

• All natural: Since you decide what to put in, you can ensure you’re only using natural or organic ingredients. Nonasty parabens, chemical fragrances, or other toxic chemicals to be found here.

• Customizable - Dull skin? Dry patches? Maybe you’re sensitive to certain ingredients or scents? That’s the best part about DIY - you’re fully in control! You can tweak recipes to suit your skin’s needs, whether that means adding in a drop of your favorite essential oil or increasing oils for added moisturization. 

Easy DIY Masks and Scrubs

1. DIY Coffee Scrub

Ingredients: Coffee Grounds, Coconut Oil (or almond/olive), Essential Oils

Instead of tossing out your used coffee grounds, turn them into an exfoliating and rejuvenating body scrub. Add a little bit of coconut oil to the grounds (also works well with almond or olive oil) - I personally love the smell and feel of coconut. You can also add in a drop or two of your favorite essential oils - peppermint, rosemary, rose are my go-tos. The grounds are a really great exfoliant, and the oil adds moisture and balances the scrub out. I would avoid using this one on your face since the skin is more sensitive.  

2. DIY Oat Mask

Ingredients: Leftover Oat Milk Pulp, Almond Oil (or olive/coconut), Honey

If you make oat milk at home (great recipe here!), you can use the leftover pulp to make a really gentle and nourishing face mask. Add 2 tablespoons of almond oil (again, you can sub this out for whichever oil you have at home) and 2 tablespoons of honey to a half cup of the leftover oat pulp and mix well. Apply onto damp skin and rub in a circular motion - we recommend using this about twice a week (you can store this for up to a day in the fridge). If you want to turn this into an exfoliating scrub, you can add 3 tablespoons of brown sugar and use as a body scrub too. 

3. DIY Rice Water

Ingredients: Rice, Rice Flour (optional), Aloe Vera Gel (optional)

Rice water is having its moment right now, and for good reason. Get on the Korean glass skin trend with this one! It’s super easy to make - rinse half a cup of rice well to get rid of any debris or impurities. Then soak the rice in one cup of water for 30 minutes or so. Strain the rice into a container - this is your magic rice water and it keeps well in the fridge for up to a week. Rice water is incredibly versatile - you can use it as a gentle toner after cleansing your face to balance your skin’s pH levels. You can also make it into a paste by adding rice flour - this makes a brightening and exfoliating face mask. You can also mix in aloe vera gel to create a cooling and soothing face mask. Finally, you can use it as a conditioner - after shampooing your hair, rinse your hair with the rice water, which adds shine to your hair and also promotes hair growth. 

PS - Cook and enjoy your rice as usual - no waste here! 

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