DIY Natural Zero-Waste Makeup Remover
Little by little I've been changing some of my routines and products to reduce waste. I use what I currently have, and then when that runs out/ uses up, rather than running to the store immediately to replace it, I do a bit of research to see if there is a package free option available or a DIY recipe using something I already have. The most recent product I've 'switched over' is makeup remover wipes.
Previously, I would buy single-use wipes in plastic packaging. They were expensive ($4.99/pack of 25) and they included a host of harsh chemical ingredients- as most single-use makeup wipes do. Through my research though, I found that any natural plant oil can replace store bought makeup remover.
Of the plant oils I found, coconut oil is by far the thickest- good for dry skin but avoid if you breakout easily like me. Grapeseed, Avocado, Olive, Jojoba, and Saffron were a few other oils I found to be well reviewed. You can mix them with Witch Hazel to thin the consistency. I personally have been using olive oil because I already had it in my kitchen for cooking, and I know I can buy it zero-waste from the liquid bulk dispensers at my local store. I mixed it with 1 drop of teatree oil for scent, although I wouldn't recommend adding more than that because it can burn your eyes.
Recipe: yields 1 oz liquid makeup remover
- 1/2 oz (your choice) natural plant oil
- 1/2 oz witch hazel
- 1 drop (your choice) natural essential oil
For the wipes, I cut up pieces of an old bed sheet to reuse. They are soft enough for tender skin around the eyes. You can also buy washable reusable makeup wipes online at www.thewildminimalist.com
TIP: use dark colored material so mascara stains don't show.
Wash with cold water immediately and do not machine dry because they could catch fire. I just lay mine out to air dry. Saving money, using natural ingredients, and eliminating waste for our precious planet; this zero-waste switch is a triple win!