Sustainable Swaps

By Jordan Ensign

Sustainability is a broad topic. Here at CDR, our conversations about sustainability are often centered around clothing, but there are lots of ways to incorporate eco-friendly choices into your routine. Today, I want to share three simple product swaps that have helped me reduce waste and be a bit kinder to the planet.

Shampoo and Conditioner Bars

Curl-Defining Solid Shampoo and Conditioner from Ethique

My most recent swap has been replacing liquid shampoo and conditioner with a solid alternative—I’ve been using and loving the bars by Ethique for a couple months now. On top of being better for the planet and amazing for my hair, these bars are also making my wallet extremely happy. Combined, a set of Ethique bars replace eight plastic bottles. One set of bars is significantly cheaper than eight bottles of the shampoo and conditioner I used to use, so I'm cutting back on single-use plastics and saving money while I do it.

I can personally vouch for the curl-defining formula, but Ethique offers a full range of solid shampoo and conditioner for all hair types; if you’re interested in making the switch, their hair quiz is a great place to start. And while you’re on their website, be sure to check out their Impact page to learn more about their sustainability efforts. 

Sugaring Paste

Medium Consistency Sugaring Paste from Sugardoh

I’ve been using Sugardoh’s sugaring paste as an alternative to disposable razors or wax strips for a little over a year now, and I have no plans to stop! Sugardoh’s founder, Aliyah, sums things up beautifully on the company’s About page: “Sugardoh is a new kind of sustainable body care, one with minimal ingredients and little waste…If you choose to be hairless, I give you a planet-friendly way to do it.”

The only thing I love more than Sugardoh’s simple, sustainable product—their sugaring paste is made with natural ingredients and packaged with minimal plastic—is their choice-centered stance on hair removal. With effective products and honest values, Sugardoh is a brand I’m more than happy to support for reasons that go far beyond sustainability.

Reusable Makeup Remover Pads

Reusable Microfiber Rounds from Beauty by Earth (image from Beauty by Earth)

One of my most tried-and-true swaps has been using reusable makeup remover pads in place of disposable wipes. I’ve been using the same set of pads for years, and they still work as well as they did when they were brand new. I just toss them in the laundry with my other towels, and they're still in great shape!

Since the one I use are a bit older, I don't have a direct link. The good news, however, is that you can find this type of product in lots of stores or online. These Reusable Microfiber Rounds from Beauty by Earth, for example, look super similar to what I use and have glowing reviews!

Sustainability shouldn't be complicated. I hope these easy swaps have given you some inspiration for simple ways to be a little more eco-friendly everyday!