About 450 years. That is how long it takes a single piece of plastic to decompose. Since plastic was invented, none of it has completely decomposed, instead littering our oceans, beaches, forests, and neighborhoods. How can we change this to impact the world’s health and stop global warming? Go plastic-free, as much as you can. 

My zero-waste journey has only just begun. One of the easiest ways to start to go plastic-free is to look at your shower. How many plastic bottles, containers, razors, or products do you have? Does your face exfoliator have little plastic beads inside? Is your shower filled with plastic? I’ll be honest: my shower was filled with plastic, and I’m still working to find perfect replacements for my favorite products. Here are some of my tips for creating a plastic-free beauty and shower routine. 

Bar Shampoo 

This was the one I was most afraid of when transitioning. The best part is most bar shampoos are also all-natural and free of harmful chemicals that hurt your hair and body. There are so many brands out there that specialize in different types of hair. No matter if your hair is straight or 4c curly, there is a shampoo for you. I personally use the J.R. Liggetts shampoo bars. I have naturally curly hair and have been styling it using the curly-girl method. This shampoo has been clarifying, although the original can be a little drying. If you have curly hair, you might want to go for one of their more moisturizing shampoos. They have so many to choose from that take care of all your hair needs. Bar shampoo is so much cheaper than regular shampoo as well – and lasts so much longer! 

Hair Oil 

For my curly hair, I require a few products after I wash. Finding a completely zero-waste, curly-girl hair method has been challenging. As I slowly switch out my products in plastic bottles, I have found many oils that I like already come in glass bottles. Search for glass bottles of your favorite hair oils – there are tons! 

Bar Soap 

I feel like this one is a given, but liquid soap has become so popular. Bar soap is not only cheaper than liquid soap, it also generally comes in plastic-free packaging. I use Dr. Bronners or soaps from Three Sisters Apothecary. There are many small businesses that make soaps as well, so shop small! 

Drainable Soap Holder 

You can use a wood holder for your shampoo and soap, but a few years back I purchased a  bioplastic lift for my soap. Since my enlightenment toward the horrors of plastic, I’ll admit this might not be the best option. However, in the spirit of using what you have, I will continue to use it until it breaks. Bioplastics are somewhat helpful but are not the end goal. Many soap holders are made of bioplastic, so do some research before you buy. There are tons of plastic-free, wood-based soap dishes to consider. But, why do you even need a soap dish? This prolongs the life of your bar shampoo and soap, making it last many more washes. 

Body Moisturizer  

I swear by Organic Essence for not only the best products but also the best plastic-free packaging. Their organic shea creams are amazing, and a little goes a long way! 

Deodorant 

Finding plastic-free deodorant has been tough. After some research, the brand Native came up as an alternative to traditional plastic dispensers. After realizing how many plastic deodorant bottles I had accumulated in my lifetime, I decided there had to be a better way. There are two options here: Native’s plastic-free deodorant…or lemons. Yes, lemons. Citric acid kills bacteria and odor, so you can use it as deodorant! If that is too hippy for you, by all means, try the plastic-free packaging Native offers. 

Bamboo Toothbrush 

Most bamboo toothbrushes come with plant-based bristles, so you are really entirely getting away from plastic here.

Toothpaste 

Although I have not tried it yet, it is out there: toothpaste in a jar. Yes, it exists! From tablets to chew on to toothpaste in a jar, it is possible to get away from plastic bottles. I have been wanting to try Georganics, which is available on Amazon.  

Facial Soap Bar 

Just like the bar soap, there are many options out there for all skin types. A quick Google search for a facial bar for your skin type will show you so many options. 

Facial Toner 

Although I can’t stand the smell, I have used apple cider vinegar as a facial toner since I was in high school. Many bottles do come with a plastic cap, making them not completely plastic-free, so see if you can find a metal cap. If you can find a completely plastic-free bottle buy it! 

Facial Moisturizer 

There are so many brands out there putting facial moisturizer in glass jars with metal lids. A quick search for your skin needs and a sustainable moisturizer will be yours in no time. 

Face Masks 

I have stopped buying face masks completely. I try to make my own masks using household ingredients and recipes I find online. Bananas, avocados, and coconut oil are just some of the ingredients I use! I just look up “vegan moisturizing face mask” or whatever skin problem I want to fix. I tend to stay away from using animal products on my face because of possible reactions, or diseases. Putting eggs in a face mask might be common, but it is not worth it to risk a salmonella infection.  

Exfoliator 

Use a simple washcloth! If washcloths are not your style, there are plenty of plastic-free loofas out there, or, if you are more into scrubs, you might consider a DIY sugar scrub. I have been making a simple sugar scrub since high school. All you need is an oil of your choice (coconut works well for most skin types) and some sugar. You need about half a cup of oil and a fourth cup of sugar. Feel free to play with the ratio. After mixing the ingredients together in a jar, it is ready to use. Seal it in an airtight container (I recommend a mason jar).  

Razors  

Metal razors are the ultimate plastic-free switch, and there many options at different price points.  

Shaving Cream 

Shaving cream does not have to be fancy or expensive; you can use oil, which is not only moisturizing but also works just as well. 

This concludes my zero-waste shower and beauty essentials. I hope this inspires you to try one or more of my recommendations. As we already face climate change issues, it is imperative that we begin to take it seriously. Go plastic-free as much as you can to help our environment.